.

Problem #4

Water-resistant drywall used as a backer quickly degrades once subjected to moisture.

Solution: Install cement backer board, which will remain structurally sound even if repeatedly subjected to moisture.  

Problem #5

Poorly ventilated bathrooms allow surface mold to grow.

Solution: Install a bathroom fan (or at least, open a window) to exhaust moisture. Remove surface mildew by scrubbing the area with a 1/2 percent bleach solution. When the area is dry, prime it with an alcohol-based, white-pigmented shellac, such as Zinsser Bullseye, and use a paint containing mildewcide.  

Problem #6

Poorly constructed crawlspaces promote mildew growth. Bare earth floors transmit huge amounts of moisture.

Solution: There are many regional differences and solutions. Cover bare earth with 6-mil poly sheeting. Heat, cool and humidify the area the same as the rest of the house.

Problem #7

Freshly cut firewood stored indoors emits huge amounts of moisture.

Solution: Store it outside.

Problem #8

Humidifiers (especially reservoir-type central units and portable units) provide both a growth medium and a distribution system for mold and mildew.

Solution: Clean and treat the reservoir often with an antimicrobial solution, available at most hardware stores.

Problem #9

The condensation pan directly under the coil of your central air conditioner can harbor mold.

Solution: Before each cooling season, clean the pan with a 1/2 percent bleach solution and make sure the continuous drain is working.

Problem #10

Finished concrete basements that haven't been thoroughly waterproofed from the outside are problematic. When moisture migrates through the earth and non-waterproofed concrete walls, it can get trapped behind vapor barriers, carpet, layers of insulation and drywall.

Solution: Thoroughly waterproof the exterior of concrete walls before backfilling. Install 6 in. of gravel under concrete floors during construction to prevent moisture from wicking up through concrete floors and into floor coverings.

Problem #11

Yards that slope toward foundations invite water to enter basements and crawlspaces.

Solution: Re-grade yard surrounding house so it slopes away at a rate of 1 in. per foot.

Problem #12

Improperly flashed or caulked windows (and those with large amounts of surface condensation) let moisture seep the surrounding wood, drywall and insulation.

Solution: Properly flash and caulk windows during installation; minimize condensation with good ventilation and airflow.

Problem #13

Leaky flashings and shingles allow rain to infiltrate attics, insulation, eaves and other areas that can trap moisture and be difficult to inspect.

Solution: Perform yearly roof inspections--even if you do it from the ground with binoculars.