MOISTURE INFILTRATION

Harmful moisture infiltration can occur from many different sources. Many people assume when they see evidence of water in their home that the roof is the source. Although the roof can be the source, we often find many other causes. Some of these are: flashings, chimneys, exterior wall coverings, gutters, dormers, windows and doors.

Other sources of moisture include improper venting systems which can draw in moisture through vents as well as ice dams which commonly cause water to back up underneath the shingles and leak at the lower edge of the roof.

Another common harmful source of moisture is from humidity inside the house. Should this humidity be allowed to get to a surface that is at or below the dew point temperature, it will condense. This can occur because of poor vapor retarder systems, exfiltration points such as recessed light fixtures, unsealed whole house fans, attic stairways, open joints and cracks, and others. Also, exhaust fan ductwork that is not completely sealed all the way to the building envelope can allow moist air to leak into the attic space.

Some other sources of moisture can be leaking plumbing, shower areas that are not sealed properly, hot water or steam heating systems and condensation pans under air-conditioning units.

Many of the sources mentioned can allow relatively small amounts of moisture into the home. The concern is that moisture could be ignored or overlooked and allowed to continue and accumulate for a long period of time. Normally the longer that the moisture is allowed to accumulate, the more severe the potential damage can be.

It is common to see degradation of the wood sheathing and structural members. The visible and hidden deterioration of the interior surfaces can also continually expand.

A whole new concern for an old and common occurrence has created an awareness of potential significant damage. That damage can be caused by mold. The mold remediation work and associated costs can be far more significant than structural and interior repairs.

Modern building materials and building practices have caused a change in the way homeowners must react to moisture in their homes.

Homeowners need to be watchful and aware of moisture infiltration. When it is recognized it needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Mold cannot grow without a source of moisture. The source of the moisture must be eliminated quickly to prevent further complications from occurring.

Then the moisture must be completely dried out from all surfaces, including wall cavities and attics. It is critically important that this be accomplished as soon as possible.

When moisture is recognized, it must be a call to action!

Furthermore, almost all warranties from roofing contractors and manufacturers do not include coverage for consequential damages. The coverage is only to repair the roof when a problem occurs that is due to workmanship, or in the case of a manufacturer when there is a defect in the materials. You must examine the specific terms of your warranty to see what is covered because there can be significant variation in the coverage.

For more information on treating moisture infiltration refer to the following web site:

1. www.dehs.umn.edu/iaq/flood.html