A64 — Avoiding Moisture and Mold Problems (SI)

Indoors, buildings should always be dry. When building interiors get damp and stay damp, problems often emerge for their occupants and for the building’s structure, material, and furnishings. Persistent indoor dampness has been associated with human health problems, increased risk to buildings’ structural fasteners and exterior enclosure, shortened useful life of furnishings, and reduced acceptability to occupants because of odors and stains. These and related problems can be costly and disruptive, as well as annoying to all concerned. COMPLEX CAUSES MOISTURE TOLERANCE AND LOADS RISK FACTORS AND MITIGATION HVAC Systems Architectural Factors Building Operational Decisions Occupant Decisions SOLUTIONS Architecture and Design HVAC Systems HEALTH-RELEVANT INDOOR DAMPNESS MEASURING BUILDING DAMPNESS Water Activity Moisture Content