Humidity and Mold Growth
The arrival of warm summer weather provides opportunity for fresh air through screened windows and doors. Summer breezes are refreshing. Remember to close windows and doors when outdoor humidity levels rise. Basement windows should remain closed as well to keep humid ambient air out and to...
Water, Mold, & Building Materials
Building Science Corporation is a credible resource with unbiased factual information. BSI-027 is a fascinating examination of the prevalence of microbial growth in new buildings. This excerpt is interesting and the photographs included in the article are truly remarkable. "Mold is pretty easy to understand. No water...
Spring Maintenance Checklist
Commercial and residential buildings will benefit from early maintenance before summer weather arrives. Clean gutters and downspouts to be sure water flows freely away from building foundations. Reseal exterior woodwork- fences, pergolas, sheds, and trellises should be inspected and included in the process. Check for pest infestation and...
Indoor Air Quality Routines
Spring is on the way and soon spring cleaning will be underway. Duct inspection is sometimes overlooked in routine maintenance. There are unnoticed systems in every building that contribute to the quality of the indoor environment. Ducting is found in different applications- bathroom exhaust fans, clothes dryers...
Houzz Winter Checklist
Houzz contains a lot of information for practically any residential project. Their winter checklist is comprehensive....
Preparing for Cold Weather
Temperatures are dropping and systems maintenance is fundamental in efficient operation. Seasonal properties should be winterized to prevent pipe breaks and winter water damage. Occupied properties will benefit from routine maintenance, filter changes as well as an examination of ducts, vents, and connections should be included....
Attic Insulation and Roof Ventilation
Roof ventilation, in most instances, promotes air circulation throughout buildings contributing to healthy indoor environments and preventing material damage that can occur when warm, moist, air is trapped inside. Attic insulation is another component that creates comfort in controlling indoor conditions. More is not always better,...
Mold & Air Circulation
It is imperative to maintain air-flow through building rooms. Mold grows in environments where there is elevated humidity, accumulated moisture, and insufficient air circulation. It is not uncommon to find small spaces harboring mold growth contained within a larger building serviced by efficient, functioning, HVAC. Closets and...
Water Damage and Plants
Gardening can be a a pleasure, especially after a long winter. Thoughtful planning in horticultural pursuits will prevent water damage and ancillary building systems damage. Landscaping Network advocates caution in planting and pruning plants with runners so they do not penetrate the building envelope or invade...
Attic & Basement Mold
Springs rains, floods, and groundwater can accumulate in the basement. It's a good idea to take a close look in all of the nooks and crannies in the basement including the overhead to make sure there are no leaks that may lead to mold growth....