Ten Tips to Construct a Mold-Free Building

[Guest guest]

Ten Tips to Construct a Mold-Free Building

Source: GreenBiz.com

http://www.greenbiz.com/news/news_third.cfm?NewsID=33853

ATLANTA, Aug. 29, 2006 - Even with today's construction techniques,

most buildings undergo natural wear and eventually need renovation.

However, another hazard exists that can cause a building to lose

value even before construction is complete.

Dubbed " the new asbestos " by many, mold is an increasing problem in

many new construction buildings, ruining the indoor air quality and

costing thousands of dollars to remediate, according to GREENGUARD

Environmental Institute (GEI). GEI, a non-profit organization that

establishes indoor air standards for indoor products, environments

and buildings, advises builders and contractors to take 10

precautions to avoid mold contamination of their properties.

" All it takes is a little rain and mold can grow all over an exposed

structure, " said Carl , CEO/executive director of GEI. " Safer

building may cost a little more time and money in the short term,

but can save many more headaches in the future. "

These precautions include:

1. Site Assessment The site must undergo both a soil/hydrology

review and assessment and a landscape architecture review and

assessment. You should hire a registered civil engineer for the

first job and a registered landscape architect for the second. One

must particularly make sure water does not settle near the

building's proposed foundation.

2. Building Envelope Review An independent third party should

assess the strength of the building's roof, wall assembly and

foundation.

3. HVAC A load analysis, equipment selection review, control

systems check, layout and materials section review are all

necessary.

4. Plumbing Moisture and condensation must be managed and taken

into account in conjunction with any design issues. The size, design

and use of the building must be matched appropriately to its

plumbing system. A qualified third party should review these

specifications.

5. Materials Any potentially moisture-sensitive materials should be

identified during the initial design and then shipped, packaged,

stored and installed appropriately so as to shield them from

elements.

6. Final Design/Construction Documents Approval The final design,

which includes moisture and mold prevention measures must be

approved by the building owner/developer's representative.

7. Construction Verification The construction site and ongoing

building must be inspected by a qualified third party at least once

every three months. These inspections include all materials deemed

moisture sensitive; ensuring they are not installed prior to the

building being sealed or, at least, temporarily covered.

8. Operations and Maintenance Training Plans Building and

maintenance personnel should be trained in preventing, spotting and

reporting moisture incidents.

9, Acceptance An authorized third party should formally inspect the

property to ensure it meets overall requirements. This onsite

inspection includes all appliances, pipes, drains and other areas

where condensation occurs. The certification can then be obtained.

10. Ongoing Inspections The property should be inspected at least

four times during the first year of occupancy and on an ongoing

basis in the following years.