The Threat Of Moisture To A Structure
As a society we have made tremendous strides in our building capabilities. Our structures are bigger, stronger, and bolder than ever before. But despite these advancements, the environment outside of the building remains largely the same. Our homes and offices are susceptible to the same environmental conditions that have persisted for centuries.
These conditions are wide-reaching, but many of them share one central threat—moisture. When moisture enters a structure, dangerous pathogens can thrive. In fact, buildings today are so advanced that we are facing a new issue as well. Not only is moisture able to enter the structure, but moisture that originates from within is getting trapped inside.
Some of the areas that are at the highest risk for moisture-driven issues are attics, crawlspaces, basements, foundation walls, exteriors, structural framing, and wall and ceiling cavities.
1) Attics
Moisture naturally builds up in attics due to household water use, condensation from HVAC, and daytime/nighttime temperature differential that results in repeatedly hitting dew point (which drives an increase in structural moisture content).
2) Basements and Crawlspaces
Moisture release from the Earth, condensation on duct work and plumbing, moisture intrusion/seepage through foundation walls, and humidity that can exist outside the building envelope can exert a high moisture load on the crawl space.
3) Foundation Walls
Efflorescence, the migration of minerals like calcium to the surface of concreate, is a visible conducive condition of wicking moisture from the positive side (exterior) to the negative side (interior) of a foundation wall.
4) Exteriors
Wind driven moisture infiltrates the porous nature of brick, mortar, aggregate, EFIS, stucco, and other cementitious surfaces. The net result is decreased surface longevity, and higher ongoing maintenance costs.
5) Structural Framing
Before dry-in, in new construction as well as in post remediation applications, structural moisture can increase from direct exposure and retained water.
6) Wall and Ceiling Cavities
Wall and ceiling cavities can trap moisture in the form of condensation due to thermal bridging. Thermal bridging occurs when heat flows through the building envelope.
When a moisture problem is left unattended there are several disastrous consequences. Toxic mold is able to grow, efflorescence is able to form, and your health may become jeopardized. These untreated mold spores can wreak havoc on your body from an allergenic and autoimmune standpoint. Beyond that, financial costs can rapidly heighten.
But there is light at the end of the tunnel – or even the beginning if you act quickly.
If a structure is already experiencing a mold problem, there are several solutions that can be implemented to help. Mold remediation will bring the area back to safe conditions.
A service provider will first inspect and assess the property to identify the cause and extent of the damage. Once the source has been discovered, the area will be contained. This prevents the spread of fungi to unaffected areas. A thorough cleaning will commence, and once the source material is removed, the area will be tested by an independent third party.
But this road can be long and costly. That is why being proactive rather than reactive is so important when it comes to moisture. By implementing a few moisture controls in advance, a homeowner or building owner can protect themselves from unnecessary costs and health
concerns.
"That is why being proactive rather than reactive is so important when it comes to moisture"
Sunshine Cleaning and Restoration provides mold remediation and mold removal service. But in addition, in partnership with Enviroguard, we offer a moisture control solution for every space detailed above. These services are reinforced by a lifetime warranty, and are implemented fast, implemented right, and guaranteed.
If you believe in insuring your home, and you believe in insuring your health, utilize our moisture controls and protect both. Call our offices now to learn how we can help you protect your structure today.
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