Moisture Is Not Good For Your Building Or Your Health!

Moisture has long been important to building designers, builders and building owners since it is the single most important agent of building deterioration. For example, moisture, from whatever source, is involved in:

• Electrochemical corrosion of metal components such as HVAC equipment, ducts, structural framing, reinforcing bars, masonry anchors, etc.;

• The chemical deterioration and dissolution of materials such as gypsum sheathing, ceiling tiles, wood products, and damaging chemical processes;

• Freeze-thaw deterioration of concrete, stone, and masonry;

• Discoloration (staining, “dusting,” irregular wetting, etc.) of building finishes;

 

• Volume changes (swelling, warping, shrinkage) that can cause degradation of appearance, structural failure, cracking, etc.; and

• The growth of biological forms, including mold, plants, dust mites, etc.

Moisture related biological growth (mostly fungal) has taken on new significance recently because such growth can have a major effect on occupant health , structural capacity, and appearance of any building.