The expression “The term” is used a lot. “green building”As homebuyers look for homes that use recycled materials or less energy,
Although recycling and energy-efficiency are important goals they must be pursued with care to preserve your home’s ability repel and manage moisture. Many unwanted moisture is trapped in energy-efficient homes. Renewable building materials may not be durable enough to sustain themselves. How can you make your green home dry and durable? According to the Responsible Solutions to Mold Coalition (RSMC), a coalition of building materials companies, associations and USG Corporation members, building green homes involves designing, building, and maintaining them in a way to keep moisture away. Damp homes can not only cause rapid deterioration but also make it more difficult to maintain them.
Here are some useful tips to keep your home dry.
* Avoid complex roof designs that trap rainwater in valleys that do not drain.
* Never install wet building materials — they should be protected from the elements before installation.
* Flashings must be installed around all doors, windows and chimneys to drive moisture outside of the building.
* Only install drywall once the home has been closed in, and give joint compound enough time to dry before it is painted or covered.
* Be sure that there is adequate ventilation in your home. Energy-efficient houses can trap moisture and lead to mold.
* Bamboo flooring is abundant and renewable, but bamboo’s not highly durable. Ceramic tile is a more durable option for a green floor.
* Select the right type of wallboard for high-moisture rooms like kitchens and baths. Cement board, or boards that combine cement and fiberglass, are the best for ceramic tile application. Water intrusion can cause mold.
You can find more information on this and other mold-resistant building tips at www.amazon.com www.responsiblemoldsolutions.org. You can also request a free copy of the mold-fighting tips brochure via e-mail. [email protected]
