• Avoid Problems with HVAC
• Improving Indoor Air Quality
• Decrease Your Energy Bill While Cooling Your Home
• Energy & Cost Efficient Changes to Your HVAC
• Purchasing An Energy Efficient HVAC System
• Air Conditioning – Definition and History
• How Air Conditioners Work
• HVAC – Heating, Ventilation, and AC
• Alen Corporation - History and Products
• Air Fresheners Don't Freshen
• Make Your Home Safe with Better Ventilation
• FEMA Trailer Residents Fighting Mold
• Humid Areas at High Risk for Mold
• Relieve Stress By Removing Clutter
• Toxicity in Office Affects Indoor Air Quality
• Using Candles Safely
• Wet Weather Breeds Mold

Safer Homes Include Better Ventilation

Homes have always been at risk for infestations of mold and other microorganisms, but new building techniques are providing homeowners with greater opportunities to decrease their risk of exposure. At the suggestion of clients, Charles Perry, principal of Environmental Assurance Group, agreed to make his new home a model for mold-resistant construction.

Perry’s home, completed in conjunction with the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH), combines new and old methods of mold prevention. With the help of the PATH manufacturers, Perry was able to make choices that would not only decrease mold growth, but also allow for cost-effective and energy efficient construction. They looked for ways to provide better overall ventilation and air exchange between inside and outside air. Since mold grows best in moist conditions, Perry focused on keeping proper ventilation throughout the home to decrease overall humidity.

He also used specific products to prohibit mold growth. Since mold thrives in organic matter like paper-based drywall, Perry chose to use a paperless wallboard made by Georgia Pacific. The construction team wrapped the house and roof in Fiberweb Typar, an air and moisture barrier made by Dupont that allows moisture to escape from wall cavities. They also covered the house in a ventilating rain screen made by Benjamin Obdyke that drains moisture from under the siding, keeping humidity levels low within the walls.

Perry says that traditional builders are not taking advantage of these new products and are afraid of higher costs. Despite price differences, Perry states that mold-resistant products and techniques can eventually save homeowners thousands in mold damage.

Some builders are beginning to take steps towards preventing future mold growth. For example, they will put dehumidifiers in basements they believe will one day be finished or decorated for use by the owner. For this same reason, builders will use non-porous concrete for better moisture control in these rooms. They will also treat sheetrock with bleach to kill any potential organisms that may have grown during the building process.

Perry says that buyers need to be aware of existing smells in homes since mold can sometimes be a culprit. Otherwise, for most homeowners, installing and maintaining proper ventilation throughout the home, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, can help decrease the risk of mold growth.

Resource article: http://www.achrnews.com/Articles/Web_Exclusive/BNP_GUID_9-5-2006_A_10000000000000157876