Control Moisture, Avoid Mold (NAPSA)—A common misperception among homeowners and builders is that water intrusion is inevitable and therefore moldresistant products are the answer. While mold-resistant products can play an importantrole, dry buildings and homes are the result of careful design, construction and maintenance. Homeownersand builders looking for simple, understandable advice on mold control can turn to the Responsible Solutions to Mold Coalition’s (RSMC) top 10 sources of information. The Coalition is a consortium of building industry associations, academic and governmental bodies and companies, utions including USG o 4 Corporation and 3 a % National Gypo sum Company. 5% RSMC g In evaluating %y “Py the best sources y wD of information on moisture/mold control, RSMC identified some of the most common errors that lead to water intrusion and mold growth: * Water or waste pipes installed in exterior walls: As tem- peratures vary, condensation can form on pipes that are normally surrounded by insulation, making drainage impossible. Failure to place water-handling appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines in large pans that drain away from the house. These pans are commonly available at home improvement centers. Failure to replace washing machine hoses. This is the leading insurance claim for water damage. Failure to replace water heaters every 10 to 12 years. Most homeowners wait until their water heater fails (and usually leaks). Deferred replacement is Builders and homeowners have found if you control moisture, you'll control mold. more costly in the long run. Lack of flashing around doors, windows, roofs and chimneys that safely channel water away from the house and allow walls to dry out. Wet building materials: Building materials are often improperly stored at the jobsite. They should not be delivered until it’s time to install them, and while they're being stored, they should be off the ground and covered tightly with a tarp. Rushed building schedules that do not allow enough time for joint compound, tile grout, paint and sprayed foam insulation to dry adequately. * Roofs that are designed in a manner that does not provide a clear pathway for water to move off of the roof and into gutters and downspouts. Blocked gutters and downspouts that are improperly installed in a manner that directs water toward the house. Improper grading around the house that directs water into the basement. More information on mold prevention and a newly updated brochure are available at www. responsiblemoldsolutions.org.
