Check for potential moisture problems

[Guest guest]

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brick building.

Janet

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[Guest guest]

Check for potential moisture problems

News Democrat & Leader

By RACHEL HANCE-Extenstion Agent For Family & Consumer Science

http://www.newsdemocratleader.com/articles/2007/05/08/news/home_news/

home01.txt

If you're planning a move to another home, protect yourself from

future moisture and mold problems by inspecting it thoroughly before

signing final papers. If you identify any problems, have the

landlord or seller correct them before you move in, or even consider

moving elsewhere.

First, have professionals check the heating and cooling system,

including humidifiers and vents. The duct lining and insulation

should also be checked for mold growth.

Next check for exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. If there are

no vents, be sure that kitchen and bathrooms have at least one

window apiece. The cook top should have a hood vented to the

outside, not into an attic or crawlspace. The clothes dryer should

also vent to the outside.

Look for obvious mold growth throughout the house, including attics,

basements, and crawlspaces. Walk around the outside of the house.

Check the foundation and window wells for cracks and any signs of

past water damage. Note whether the ground slants away from the

foundation for good water run-off and whether plants close to the

house are damp and rotting. Down spouts from roof gutters should

direct water away from the building.

Inside, look for stains on the walls, floors or carpeting as

evidence of previous flooding or moisture problems. Look, too, for

any signs of leaks or seepage in the basement and attic area. Don't

forget to examine the overall design of the building. Overhanging

areas, rooms located over unheated garages and closets on outside

walls may also be present problems with moisture and mold.

For more information on this topic, contact the Logan County

ative Extension Service.

Source: Alder, Extension Specialist for Home Furnishings,

University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture