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A
proper moisture proof barrier must be used on
any type of wall system regardless whether it's wood, concrete,
or anything else. If your home lacks moisture protection, you
could be plagued with years of endless water damage, mold,
mildew, and expensive repairs and replacements.
If
you want to ensure that your home remains in excellent condition
after years and years-do not eliminate the necessary steps
required to prevent moisture from damaging your internal wall
system, surface materials, windows, doors, and such.
Following
is an interesting study on the performance of housewrap vs felt
paper: See article on Housewrap
vs Felt paper
Another
important step is to appropriately add flashing above windows,
doors and other moisture susceptible areas. The following
website offers advise on this subject:
Go
to: http://www.buildabetterhome.org/
and
then
click on "Walls" located below "Tips for Builders
& Designers" to find out how moisture barriers should
be properly installed in wood wall systems.
While
we are still on the subject of moisture proofing, don't forget
about the bathroom. Moisture can build up within the walls
causing serious mold, mildew, and structural problems if your
bathroom is not properly constructed.
The
following information from the EPA will help shed the light on
mold: http://www.epa.gov/mold/
Any
wall, or ceiling for that matter, that will be in contact with
moisture should either contain or apply a moisture proof
barrier, such as a water-resistant gypsum board (aka: "Green
Board") or cement based boards, which are available in several
brands-just make sure you understand the proper procedure for installation in order to prevent moisture damage.
Proper
caulking and sealing also play a big role in moisture prevention
and air infiltration. The following article offers information
on this subject:
http://www.energy.ca.gov/efficiency/qualityhomes/caulking_sealing.html
Not
only is it important to use proper materials and a moisture
proof barrier system, but also proper ventilation
plays a big
roll in controlling moisture. There
are specific ventillation guildlines that are required for
proper ventilation when building a home:
http://www.owenscorning.com/around/ventilation/determining.asp
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