ᐅ Exterior wall damp, mold, joints sandy

Created on: 2 Mar 2021 00:56
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Benny23
Hello,

I probably have a problem with my wall.
There was mold visible on the wallpaper, and the smell was unpleasant. After removing the wallpaper, I found insulation boards underneath, so it is interior insulation. The insulation material is unknown to me, possibly cork??? I will add photos. The house was built at the end of the 18th century, so likely from older times.

What worries me most are the joints between the masonry. Are these bricks? What are they called? The joints can be easily removed completely with a finger or screwdriver. To me, it looks like sand from a sandbox. This doesn’t seem like modern mortar, which is hard and would crumble instead if loose—am I mistaken?

What was used for these joints? What can I use to refill the joints? Despite everything, no bricks are loose or easily removed. The section of the wall is not above a basement.

What is the best way to proceed?
Thank you very much in advance, I would appreciate any answers. 🙂

Hands holding a thin black strip of asphalt in front of a broken wall and rubble.

Room under renovation: exposed brick wall, flaking plaster and rubble on the floor.

Person holding a metal rod through a hole in a crumbling brick wall; dust on the mortar.

Brick wall made of red bricks with visible mortar joints; dust and soil on the floor.
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Nice-Nofret
4 Mar 2021 13:22
1. Consult a construction expert specialized in older buildings to plan and budget the renovation.

2. Remove all interior insulation, excavate from the outside, and install exterior insulation and moisture protection.

3. Heat and ventilate the house to prevent further mold growth and avoid damage.