A large amount of moisture is generated in a bathroom each day, which can result in the growth of mold and mildew on bathroom surfaces as well as in wall and ceiling cavities if the room is not properly vented. Mold can create respiratory problems and require costly replacement of materials, or even an entire bathroom, as we experienced.

The key to controlling mold in a bathroom is to control the humidity and the key factor in controlling humidity is ventilation.

Our old bathroom was not vented at all. It had only a small window that didn't give much light, and even though it had translucent glass, the window was placed in such a way that our neighbors could see in from waist-level up if we opened it for ventilation. So we decided to remove that window entirely and completely rethink light and ventilation.

For ventilation, we chose a combination light fixture and vent, which vents moist bathroom air outside with a fan and duct and provides an overhead light. We chose our fixture because we loved the way the light came out around the edges like little sunbeams, and it also provided the correct amount of ventilation for our bathroom without making too much noise. We put the light and fan on separate electric switches so we can use one without both fan and light being on. Set up this way we use only what we need, and save electricity. We made sure that the vent exhausted to the outside of the house and not to the attic.

We installed a large skylight over the shower. This gives us both light during the day (right over the shower where there is the greatest moisture) and an excellent view of oak tree branches overhead, sunbeams, and raindrops. Natural light controls humidity and mold at the same time. Mold won't grow where there is light and the additional warmth with help dry the room.

For vanity light, we used inexpensive "Hollywood" lights, as these were much more affordable than most other fixtures and gave the best task light. We really searched for vanity lights and were surprised to find that most decorative fixtures, in addition to being expensive, just didn't provide enough light. So we chose what was practical, simple, and affordable.

For more details, read the ebook...

Debra's Guide to Creating a Green Bathroom
A Case Study of Her Own Remodel
by Debra Lynn Dadd & Larry Redalia

Take a full-color photo tour of Debra's new green bathroom as she and her husband explain just how they did their do-it-yourself remodel. Learn how to choose green building products and materials for bathroom construction, save money on materials costs, and how to install a water-tight bathroom that will last for years.

A detailed Introduction discusses the problem of how a poorly installed bathroom can lead to water damage and hazardous mold growth, followed by chapters which cover the shower, plumbing and fixtures, vanity and medicine cabinet, light and ventilation, towels, storage, body care products, cleaning, and connecting the bathroom to nature. A complete directory of all the green products used on the project is included. 50 pages.