Humidity and temperature are correlated. Turn down your humidifier output as the outside temperature drops, or expect condensation problems. Too little humidity causes static electricity and a drag on fuel bills, but too much can cause damage.
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Crawl space ventilation became essential to avoid moisture damage in modern, energy efficient homes. Crawl space vents may now be eliminated with newer high performance vapor barriers. Convert your crawl space to an unventilated one with a quality vapor barrier, and minimize dampness, temperature swings, and gain storage space.
Brick veneer installation in cold weather has very strict guidelines. Bricklayers should be real craftsmen. They know the tricks for proper installation.
A vapor barrier is essential to stop water vapor from the soil from penetrating through your basement and crawl floors and walls. Vapor barriers of polyethylene have been used as a vapor retarder for some years now, but it has limitations. Newer high performance, high density polyethylene sheeting is the key to stopping water vapor from finding its new home in your wood floors, insulation, or carpeting.
Condensation, water vapor, moisture and water damage are catalysts for mold growth. Mold can be toxic and cause serious health problems. Search these excellent articles and sites for information on mold, mold removal, mold prevention and clean-up.
Determining the cause of damage in your home may need an attorney to sort out. Is it a flaw that goes undiscovered or is it a loss that your insurance carrier should cover.
Have your contractor install your gas fireplace following the manufacturers instruction. Make sure the size of the fireplace fits your needs. A ventless fireplace could increase the water vapor in your home.
Condensation problems frustrate homeowners in nearly every part of the U.S. High humidity and water vapor from the ground and indoor sources are culprits forming those dreaded water beads all over your new windows! Fight condensation problems with high quality replacement windows, foundation vapor barriers and control of humidity inside your home.
A high quality vapor barrier is not usually found at the average home center. Check supply houses for contractors in the yellow pages.
Check for quality of replacement windows by their labels that certify standards created by the AMA and NWWDA, as well a possible energy star rating. Vinyl replacement windows that pass the AAMA/NWWDA standard are above average windows. Energy star certification shows energy savings, and usually exceeds most building codes, while the NFRC standards also measure energy efficiency. Check this list of manufacturers for the "seals of approval" they carry.
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