Sibu Terrace: Humidity Control Retrofit
Multi-zone ventilation + AC dehumidification + moisture-safe materials
3 weeks design + 2 weeks installation
The Challenge
A common Sibu complaint: black mould returning on the ceiling within months of a renovation, windows that condensate for much of the year, and stagnant air in the kitchen and bathrooms.
The Approach
Designed multi-zone ventilation with extraction fans in all wet areas. Upgraded AC with dedicated dehumidification. Specified moisture-safe materials for the wet zones and low-emission (E0) board elsewhere, with marine-grade finishes. Installed recessed ventilation ducts to avoid visual clutter.
The Outcome
Designed so the conditions that breed mould — trapped humid air and cold, condensing surfaces — are removed at the planning stage: extraction in every wet area, dehumidifying AC zoning and moisture-safe materials, rather than repainting over recurring mould later.
Key Lessons
- →Ventilation is non-negotiable in Sarawak — not an optional upgrade
- →Zone-based AC costs slightly more but saves energy long-term
- →Mould recurrence is stopped by ventilation and moisture-safe materials — not a board's E-grade (E0/E1 rate formaldehyde emission, not moisture resistance)
- →Monthly maintenance (coil cleaning) is essential, not optional
*Illustrative scenario based on conditions ELS by ALUMAX plans for across Sarawak — figures are indicative and not a quotation. We are actively building our project portfolio; named, photographed case studies will follow.