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& M O I S T U R E M A N A G E M E N T M A G A Z I N EThe Magazine for Moisture Prevention and RemediationThe Magazine for Moisture Prevention and Remediation& M O I S T U R E M A N A G E M E N T M A G A Z I N E

January-February 2006Volume 3 | Issue 1

ON-SITEBUILDERS’ PART IN Mold Prevention

An Official Publication of

ALSO INSIDE: A PREVIEW OF THE INTERNATIONALBUILDERS SHOW AND AHR EXPO

ON-SITEBUILDERS’ PART IN Mold Prevention

A Publication of Key Communications, Inc.

1. Most walls inside buildings are made of paper-faced drywall.

2. Mold eats paper.

3. If you eliminate the paper you reduce the chances for mold.

4. Georgia-Pacific introducesDensArmor® paperless drywall.

For office buildings, our revolutionary paperless drywall provides moisture and mold resistance. For free literature on DensArmor,

call 1-800-BUILD GP. For technical information,call 1-800-225-6119 or go to www.densarmor.com.

©2006 G-P Gypsum Corporation. All rights reserved. DENSARMOR is a registered trademark of G-P Gypsum Corporation.

SEE US AT THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS’ SHOWFor more information, visit www.moldmag.com/infocenter

& M O I S T U R E M A N A G E M E N T& M O I S T U R E M A N A G E M E N T

Mold & Moisture Management ©2006 by Key Communications Inc. All rights reserved. KeyCommunications Inc., 385 Garrisonville Road, Suite 116, Stafford, VA 22554; 540/720-5584;fax 540/720-5687. Unsolicited manuscripts and other materials will not be returned unlessaccompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. All contents are ©2006 by KeyCommunications Inc. Neither publisher nor its representatives nor its subcontractors assumeliability for errors in text, charts, advertisements, etc. and suggest appropriate companies becontacted before specifications or use of products advertised or included in editorial materi-als. Views and opinions expressed by authors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Forpermission to reprint, contact editorial office. Printed in the U.S. No reproduction permittedwithout expressed written permission of the of the publisher. Questions? Call 540/720-5584.

departments

™On the cover

An in-depth section just for remediators,featured in every issue.

Post Mortem ...............................16

News ..........................................18

Products .....................................20

remediation

C ontents

Spot on the Wall............................4

Consultants Corner........................6

Industry Interface..........................8

Water Workshop..........................10

columns

Photo provided by Protecto Wrap

Builders can’t preventa lot of things thatcan happen duringconstruction, but theycan control moldgrowth. For moreinformation, see thestory on page 30.

News ..........................................12Insurance Watch..........................14Wet Science ................................40Marketplace ................................41Advertiser Index ..........................42Calendar......................................42Dry Eye .......................................44

January - February 2006 | Volume 3 | Issue 1

features

[34

[38

[22

[30

2 | January-February 06 m

Winter WonderlandThe International Builders’ Show andAHR Expo offer attendees an opportunityto prevent the winter blues while learninghow to prevent mold. Read on to learnabout some products to be featured.

On-Site ActionMold is a household word now, but notall homebuilders are focused onpreventing it. Learn about someproactive solutions to preventing futuremold problems.

The Building Blocks of Building ScienceBuilding Science Forum 2005 helpeddefine this design approach forarchitects and engineers. We’ve outlinedthe components of building science—and healthy buildings—that the expertsdiscussed.

Controlling Moisture More EfficientlyWhat does energy efficiency have to dowith moisture management? Ask insteadhow much electricity dehumidifiers usedon your last project—then read how theEPA is trying to help.

[18

For more information, visit www.moldmag.com/infocenter

It’s been hard to believe, but a full year has passed since MMoollddmmaagg madeits debut at the 2005 International Builders’ Show. In that time I’vegotten quite an education. Mold for me is no longer just the stuff in the

back of my refrigerator that the art department once joked about photo-graphing for the magazine’s layout.

In fact, there’s no longer anybody in our office who groans when theyhear a mention of mold in the news. Now they’re more likely to leave avideotape or a local newspaper article on my desk, or sometimes just bringup the latest “local mold news” at the lunch table (a strangely popularplace to discuss fungi).

So now I’ve shared all the news about the relocation troubles followingthe discovery of mold at my alma mater down the road with a coworkerand fellow alum. I’ve heard about every design show on HGTV that fea-tured a disgusting close-up of colorful fungus, dutifully noted by mycoworkers. I even watched (and, I admit, laughed loudly through) anepisode of the cartoon King of the Hill one coworker taped for me, in whichHank Hill struggles with his insurance company over a destructive moldremediation. And while most of these observations hadn’t made it into themagazine (until now) they’ve been noted—and they’ve reminded me thatthis is a problem about which the public continues to grow in awareness.

It’s also been a reminder of how great it is to have such a wide networkof people involved in my search for information on mold. A wide knowl-edge base about mold is something we’re hoping to make available to youas well through our new MMoollddmmaagg Message Forum, available on our web-site at www.moldmag.com.

There are other fine online message forums that look at mold preventionor remediation, but we’re trying to offer a place where individuals fromeither end of the spectrum—in prevention or remediation—from all typesof industries, can find and compare information on mold and moisturemanagement. That means that all of the builders I’ve overheard at meet-ings telling their peers that architects aren’t designing properly for moldprevention, and all of the remediators who announce to co-workers thatbuilders don’t talk to homebuyers enough about their part of mold pre-vention and everyone else who thinks mold isn’t their prob-lem: you’re all working on the same problem, so get talking!

We’ve set it up. It’s yours to use. Send any suggestions formaking the site a better and more useful resource—or tipson the latest cartoons covering mold—to [email protected].

Megan HeadleyEditor, MMoollddmmaagg m

FFrroomm tthhee BBaacckk ooff tthhee RReeffrriiggeerraattoorr ……

ttoo tthhee TTooppiicc ooff tthhee DDaayy

A Spot on the Wall

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4 | January-February 06 Mold & Moisture Managementm

Consultants Corner

➧By Colin Murphy and Lonnie Haughton.Murphy is a founder and managing partner ofExterior Research & Design LLC in Seattle.Haughton is a construction consultant forRichard Avelar & Associates in Oakland, Calif.

TThe commonly available exte-rior plywood and orientedstrandboard (OSB) sheathing

panels can be considered structural-ly equivalent for all of our standardconstruction purposes. Both engi-neered wood products meet orexceed national voluntary perform-ance standards for strength andstiffness, dimensional stability andbond durability. A partial list ofthese performance tests includeracking, uniform load, concentratedstatic load, impactresistance, directfastener withdraw-al, lateral fastenerstrength and linearexpansion.

There is, howev-er, only limited published testing ofthe comparative moisture exchangeperformance of plywood and OSB. Inother words, when the two panelsare exposed to excess moisture,which resists moisture infiltrationbetter? More importantly, if the twopanels become wet, which tends todry faster?

Industry groups such as APA – TheEngineered Wood Association andthe Structural Board Associationsimply state that, when properlyinstalled in conformance with coderequirements and industry stan-dards, neither type of panel shouldever be exposed to long-term excessmoisture.

However, we believe that readersof this column who have had realworld experience with exterior ply-wood and OSB sheathing panelsthat have become wet will agree

that wet plywood panels generallytend to provide better performance(i.e., a slower rate of loss of struc-tural integrity and a somewhatgreater resistance to severe prolifer-ation of mold or decay fungi) thancomparably wet OSB panels.

Quantification of these perform-ance tendencies are provided in areport published by AchillesKaragiozis of the Oak RidgeNational Laboratory, titledBuilding Enclosure HygrothermalPerformance Study – Phase 11.The report provides two-dimen-sional simulations of the long-termhygrothermal performance of stuc-co-clad wall systems in Seattle.

The computer modeling of poten-

tial real-world conditions of build-ing leakage demonstrates that, dur-ing periods of moisture increasewithin the stucco wall assembly, themoisture content of plywood panelsheathing tends to increase initiallyat a somewhat faster rate than theOSB panels. However, during peri-ods of moisture decrease, the ply-wood more rapidly releases itsmoisture. This results in someextended periods (greater thanthree months) during which themoisture content of the OSBremains significantly greater thanthe plywood.

Dr. Karagiozis’ report demon-strates that for OSB panels, unlikeplywood, the rates for wetting anddrying differ greatly and both thewetting and drying rates improveexponentially for the orthogonal‘y-direction’ (i.e., laterally within

the panel) when compared with the‘x-direction’ (i.e., through thepanel). In other words, unlike ply-wood, it is far easier for excessmoisture simply to move laterallywithin an OSB panel than to exitthrough the panel. This results inan increased potential for condi-tions favorable to structural deteri-oration and fungal growth.

High-density gradients betweenthe outer and inner layers of woodstrands produced during hot-pressedmanufacture of the panels and theaddition of wax during the OSB man-ufacturing process explain this per-formance characteristic. Such obser-vations are general, of course. Bothplywood and OSB panel perform-

ance may beaffected by manyenvironmentaland product vari-ables, includingthe natural resist-ance to decay of

the differing wood species used tomanufacture the engineered woodproducts.

According to an August 1994 arti-cle by APA – The Engineered WoodAssociation, Dimensional Stability2,“When exposed to direct wetting,the moisture content is influencedby wetting time and by panel vari-ables such as veneer species of ply-wood and wax additives of OSB.”

In addition, the modeling resultsreported by Dr. Karagiozis appear tobe consistent with prior compara-tive research of moisture diffusivityof OSB and plywood carried out byMostafa Nofal and Kumar Kumaranof the National Research Council ofCanada, as reported in the April2000 issue of Professional Roofingmagazine and the October 2000issue of The Journal of LightConstruction. Dr. Nofal and Dr.

OSB vs. PlywoodEvaluation of Moisture-Related Risk Factors


“Unlike plywood, it is far easier for excess moisture simply to move laterally within an OSB panel than to exit through

the panel. This results in an increased potential for conditions favorable to structural deterioration and fungal growth.”

Kumaran demonstrated that an ini-tial wetting-and-drying cycle signif-icantly compromised OSB’s abilityto resist water infiltration duringsubsequent cycles:

“OSB’s moisture-absorption capac-ity increased with each cycle, andthe time required for reaching maxi-mum moisture content was reduceddrastically as cycles progressed.”3

Increased Moisture ObstaclesA related performance difference

between plywood and OSB panelsheathing is thickness swell result-ing from increased moisture con-tent. The testing reported by APA4

reveals, in general terms, the poten-tial for an approximately 30 percentmaximum increase in thickness forwater-saturated OSB compared toonly an approximately 9 percentmaximum increase for similarly sat-urated plywood.

It is reasonable to conclude thatdue solely to this thickness swellissue the use of OSB sheathingbehind stucco cladding will lead toan increased risk for cracking of theattached hardcoat system. Inresponse to this concern, the proj-ect architect may wish to provideincreased provisions for control andexpansion joints, or to call out ply-wood sheathing instead.

Evaluating the RisksThese observations should not be

construed as a blanket condemna-tion of the use of standard OSB struc-tural panels in roof, wall or floorassemblies, even in the wettest and

most humid climates. OSB is a well-engineered product that provides sig-nificant economic and environmen-tal benefits through the use of lowerquality and more easily farmed trees.For many uses, OSB provides per-formance and/or service values thatare superior to plywood; however, itis clear that on a project-specificbasis, prudent designers, specifiersand contractors must evaluateknown moisture-related risk factorsto determine if OSB is a reasonablesubstitute for plywood.

Various risk factors (e.g., winter-time construction or high ambienthumidity or a projected long leadtime before the building is closedin) may lead the design team to:specify plywood instead of OSB;specify a different cladding or roofcovering assembly over the OSB;or upgrade the specifications and

details for installation of theweather-resistive barrier or feltunderlayment and related flashingassemblies.

In addition, combining these riskfactors might lead the builder tomore closely supervise and coordi-nate the subcontractors’ work or toupgrade the weather protection sys-tems for the exposed construction.

In the event of subsequent build-ing defects litigation, knowledge-able attorneys may require all par-ties involved in the design, specifi-cation and construction processesto defend their evaluation of thisOSB vs. plywood issue. This discov-ery process may lead to claims thatthe extent and severity of the build-ing’s structural damage would havebeen lessened by proper considera-tion of known moisture-related riskfactors. m

January-February 06 | 7www.moldmag.com m

1 A.N. Karagiozis, Building Enclosure Hygrothermal Performance Study – Phase 1, Oak Ridge National Laboratory,ORNL/TM-2002-89. http://www.ornl.gov/~webworks/cppr/y2001/rpt/113799.pdf. 2 Dimensional Stability (TT-028), APA – The Engineered Wood Association, Technical Services Division, August 1994.http://www.apawood.org/level_c.cfm?content=pub_tch_libmain. 3 M. Nofal and K. Kumaran, “Moisture’s effects on OSB,” Professional Roofing magazine, April 2000.4 Dimensional Stability (TT-028), APA – The Engineered Wood Association, Technical Services Division, August 1994.

Designers, specifiers and contractors may want to evaluate on a project-specific basiswhether moisture-related risks make it appropriate to use OSB or plywood.

➧By Dean Lewis, the manager of productcertification for the American ArchitecturalManufacturers Association (AAMA).

WWater penetration throughfenestration openings hasbeen at the focal point of

investigations ranging from moldinfestation to hurricane damage.With extreme hurricane conditions,it is very likely that some water willpenetrate the window. In addition,rain driven by high winds may enterthe wall cavity of a home at any num-ber of points, including soffit or wallpenetrations. Running down the wall,the water may emerge around therough opening at a window or doorcausing it to appear to be leaking.

It should also be noted that thewater resistance performance of adoor or window product is oftenaffected by a variety of designparameters. To ensure that designgoals are realized in the field, webelieve windows should be installedaccording to InstallationMasters™specifications. Based on ASTM E2112 protocols, this is an independ-

ent program, originally developed byAAMA, that trains and certifies win-dow installers in proper installationmethods to minimize future field fail-ures and callbacks.

Verifying Leak-ResistantInstallation

If documented and tested installa-tion methods (such as ASTM E 2112or AAMA 504) aren’t sufficient toensure the effectiveness of installa-tion methods, performance afterinstallation can be checked accord-ing to installation test protocols,such as those set forth in AAMA 502-02, Voluntary Specification for FieldTesting of Windows and SlidingGlass Doors.

AAMA 502-02 establishes require-ments for verifying air infiltrationand water penetration resistance ofnewly installed products (it is notintended for use on existing olderinstallations). Based on ASTM E 783and ASTM E 1105, it describes twotest methods (A and B), both ofwhich require the use of a sealed testchamber applied to the interior side

of the window or door and evacuatedto establish a specified pressure dif-ferential across the product that sim-ulates wind pressure. (The testchamber may be installed on theexterior and raised to a positive pres-sure.) Water is then sprayed againstthe outside surface of the windowfrom a calibrated spray rack.

In Method A, only the window orpatio door product is tested. Framecorner seals and perimeter membersare excluded, although an optionalsill dam test can be specified to testfor leakage at lower corners. In thistest, interior finishings around thebottom of the product’s frame areremoved and the weep holes areplugged, or an exterior dam can bebuilt, to hold water within the sillframe/receptor system. Water ispoured into the resulting vessel to aheight such that the static waterhead (measured from the bottom ofthe exterior weep hole) is equal tothe specified test pressure (calculat-ed in inches as 0.192 x the specifiedtest pressure in psf). To pass the test,there can be no water penetrationthrough the perimeter frame.

Method B tests the completeinstalled assembly by using a largertest chamber that applies the differ-ential pressure to the joint betweenthe product and the rough opening.It ensures that the entire fenestra-tion product is tested, including theframe, corners, panning, sub-frame/receptor system, etc. and theadjacent substrate.

AAMA 502-02 also includes ashort-form model specification forspecifying field testing of newly-installed windows.

Because the consequences of win-dow leakage are potentially serious,investigate all steps of the installationfor assurance that the window willperform as intended. m

I ndustry Interface

In the FieldField Testing Can Identify Leaks Before They Happen


Method A Testing of Water Penetration in Windows

Tape appliedover exterior weep

Static water head height measured from

bottom of exterior weep

Static water head (mm) = 0.102 x specified test pressure (Pa)Static water head (inches) = 0.192 x specified test pressure (psf)

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barriers for healthcare facilities in the country. Let one of our experts educate your firm

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W a t e r W o r k s h o p

➧By Paul Scelsi, who has been Air Vent Inc.’sAttic Ventilation: Ask the Expert™ seminarleader since 1998. For more informationabout Air Vent, or its seminars, visitwww.airvent.com or call 800/AIR-VENT.

PProper attic ventilation can helpprevent costly problems result-ing from moisture build-up

inside the attic, including mold,mildew, wood rot, dampened insula-tion and reduced indoor air quality.

A properly designed attic ventila-tion system not only removes hotair from the attic in the summermonths, but will exchange warm,moist air with cooler, drier air inthe winter months. This results inmore comfortable living quarters,more efficient energy usage andlonger-lasting building materials.

Designing a Ventilation SystemAttic winter moisture and summer

heat build-up have different causes,but they share one solution: a high-efficiency ventilation system thatallows a uniform flow of air to sweepthe underside of the roof sheathing.• Determine the square footage of

the attic. • Most building codes require one

square foot of vent area for each150 square feet of attic floor space.

If there is a vapor retarder or theattic ventilation is balancedbetween the ridge and intake vents,the minimum is reduced to onesquare foot for every 300 squarefeet of attic floor space. I recom-mend the 1/150 ratio due to tighter

construction of modern homes.• Always balance the attic ventila-

tion system with 50 percent of therequired ventilation high on theroof for exhaust and 50 percent ofthe required ventilation low onthe roof for intake. Balancing thesystem allows cool, dry air toenter at the soffit and push warm,moist air out the exhaust ventshigh on the roof.By incorporating a high-efficiency

attic ventilation system into thehomes you build or service, you canhelp manage moisture during coldweather in addition to providingyears of satisfaction, comfort,reduced maintenance and energycosts. It can help reduce callbacks,help build new business and cus-tomer loyalty and can lead toincreased profits per job. m

Tales from the AtticManaging Attic Moisture During Cold Weather

• The average family of four generates two to four gallons of moisture fromeveryday activities such as cooking, cleaning, showering and breathing.Some of this moisture eventually rises to a cooler, dryer place: the attic.

• If not properly ventilated out of the attic, the moisture can condense asfrost or water droplets inside the attic when it hits the cooler rafters,trusses and roof sheathing, where it can lead to problems with buildingmaterials and the indoor air quality.

• Moisture build-up can have long-term effects. Not all the condensing mois-ture drips into insulation. The structural elements of the house also absorbsome, which can lead to wood rot and the deterioration of roofing materials.Other moisture is likely to soak into the attic floor and eventually into ceil-ing materials, causing water stains and paint damage in the rooms below.

What Happens When the Temperatures Drop

Proper attic ventilation provides airintake through vents at the undereave and

exhausts air through vents at the peak of theroof. Ventilation is much more than a simple

breeze blowing through your home—it’s a processthat provides a steady, high volume of air movement.

Think of it as a system of components, all sized andpositioned to provide constant intake and exhaust of air.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

NAHI Members Deploy to Gulf Coast

The National Association of HomeInspectors (NAHI) now has mem-bers working under the FederalEmergency Management Agency(FEMA) to perform habitabilityinspections in the Mississippi GulfCoast areas damaged by HurricaneKatrina. The inspection reports are

required as part of the FEMA claimprocess. In addition, NAHI membersare also working with non-profitorganizations in the relief andrecovery efforts.

NAHI member Everett Rawlingswas in D’iberville, Miss., as part ofthe relief effort and was shocked bythe amount of damage he saw.

“D’iberville, which is nearBiloxi, didn’t have the high windsthat other areas had,” said

Rawlings. “But it did have a stormsurge of 25 to 30 feet, which flood-ed most of the homes in the area.The homes had extensive waterdamage as well as mud and debrisin the flooded rooms.”

NAHI member Claude McGavicwas in Slidell, La., and saw thatmany of the homes had little thatwas salvageable.

“Many of the homes had bothwind and water damage to theextent that they will have to bestripped to the studs before theycan be rebuilt. It’s a sad situationfor both homeowners and business-es in the area,” said McGavic.

➟ www.moldmag.com/infocenter.

LITERATURE

Gypsum Association ReleasesDocument on Water Damage

Due to the severe weather eventsin the Gulf Coast region that result-ed in the flooding of many build-ings, the Gypsum Association hasreleased document GA-231 toaddress the assessment of water-damaged gypsum board.

The brief document providesinformation on determining whethergypsum board must be replaced afterit is exposed to elevated levels ofmoisture. It also provides recom-mendations for drying conditionsand additional sources of informa-tion on mold and water damage.According to the association, theguidelines were implemented forhelp following Hurricanes Katrinaand Rita that flooded large areas ofLouisiana, Mississippi, Alabama andTexas, but can be useful in the caseof exposure to water from othersources, such as improper storage,water leaks and janitorial activities.

The document is available fromthe Gypsum Association’s website.


N e w s

BluWood™ Expands into New Facilities


EnviroGard of the Southeast, ofConway, S.C., a company that treatsframing lumber to resist mold and ter-mites, is taking advantage of a localgrowth spurt and expanding to anempty factory in GeorgetownCounty, S.C., according to an articlein The Sun News.

The company plans to hire 25 peo-ple to run the manufacturing and dis-tribution facility to start with and addmore as sales increase.

EnviroGard, a private company, islicensed to use a process developed byWoodsmart Solutions of Boca Raton,Fla. Wood treated by WoodSmart’sPerfect Barrier System, the technologybehind the company’s BluWood, is pri-marily sold to lumber dealers who inturn sell mainly to builders.

WoodSmart Solutions is continuallyopening new licensed treatment cen-ters to produce BluWood. There are currently treatment facilities operating inGeorgetown and Conway, S.C.; Asheville and Raleigh, N.C.; Winter Haven,Fla., and Dallas, Texas. Talks are ongoing to have the process availablenationally by the end of 2006, according to information from the company.

“This year we’ll have treatment centers across two-thirds of the UnitedStates and Canada,” said Charles Morando, chief executive officer ofWoodSmart in a telephone interview.

According to Morando, business is growing at the rate of 30 to 40percent a month, and BluWood is “absolutely the hottest thing in thebuilding industry.”


COMPANY NEWS

WoodSmart Solutions is in talks to haveits mold-resistant BluWood availablenationwide in 2006.

Forensic Mold and MoistureManual Now Available

David Odom and George DuBose ofLiberty Building Diagnostics Grouprecently co-authored a new manual,Mold and Moisture Prevention, forthe National Council of ArchitecturalRegistration Board (NCARB).

According to the authors, the124-page manual provides a seriesof proven guidelines on specificways to avoid moisture and moldproblems. The document aims toestablish a new standard of carefor designing and constructingmoisture-free buildings, providingthe latest information for design-ers, contractors and building own-ers on key issues such as buildingenvelope and rainwater intrusionsolutions; HVAC and humiditycontrol solutions; and moistureand mold remediation. It concen-trates on integrating the designs ofboth the envelope and the HVACsystems.

Together Odom and DuBose havemore than 35 years of experience in

predicting, preventing, diagnosingand successfully remediating moldand moisture problems in more than500 buildings. The authors’ previousmanual, in cooperation with DisneyDevelop-ment Co., has been used asa guide successfully in more than $2billion in construction.

The manual is $215 and can beobtained online from LPDG’s website.


MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS

Tremco Completes Acquisition of Illbruck Sealant Systems

Tremco Inc. of Beachwood,Ohio, a global supplier of productsto control moisture intrusion,including sealants, weatherproof-ing and residential waterproofing,has completed the acquisition ofprivately-owned Illbruck SealantSystems, located in Leverkusen,Germany, for approximately $137million.

Illbruck, with sales of approxi-mately $190 million, is a manufac-turer of high-performance sealants

and installation systems for pre-fab-ricated construction componentsand for window and door applica-tions. Illbruck systems are highlyspecified throughout Europe andare sold primarily to professionalwindow and door applicators. Thecompany’s product line includesjoint sealing tapes, flashing tapes,cartridge sealants and adhesives,polyurethane foams, strips, foilsand accessories.

“We are excited at the potentialopportunities resulting from bring-ing Tremco and Illbruck together,”said Randy Korach, president ofTremco’s global sealants division.“We believe that the combinationof these companies creates syner-gies that will enable us to bettermeet the needs of our customersthroughout the world. Illbruck willnot only extend Tremco’s productoffering with a complementaryline of well respected brands butwill add a talented workforce and astrong pan-European infrastruc-ture to our existing operations.”

➟ www.moldmag.com/infocenter. m


A new manual aims to provide a standardof care for designing and constructingmoisture-free buildings.

IBA Selected to Waterproof New Trump TowerIBA Consultants of Miami, a consulting firm that specializes in build-

ing envelopes, glass and waterproofing, has been selected for the newTrump Tower Tampa project developed by Donald J. Trump andSimDag-RoBEL LLC.

IBA will provide the project’s architect with design development, con-struction document review, shop drawing/submittal review, site inspectionand testing services for waterproofing, glass and roofing.

“With so much on the line for luxury buildings—money, time and rep-utation—no one wants the building to leak after construction,” statedMark Baker, president of IBA. “That’s why more architects are gettingus involved early in the design process to ensure the integrity of thebuilding envelope is done right the first time. We are excited about beinga partner on this prestigious project.”

The $220 million, 52-story development will be located in the heart ofTampa’s financial and cultural districts and feature 190 condominium andpenthouse residences. When completed, it will be the tallest residentialbuilding on the Gulf of Mexico.

SPOTTED

TThe Professional InsuranceAgents (PIA) Western Alliance,an association representing

independent insurance agents in nineWestern states, presented a summiton moisture management and moldcontrol on January 12, 2006, at theDoubletree Suites Southcenter inSeattle. The goal of the summit was tobuild awareness within the insuranceindustry and among realtors, contrac-tors and lenders that preventativesteps can be taken to reduce theirexposure to losses resulting frommoisture damage. To teach insurersabout the availability of tools to pre-vent mold growth, PIA is using theMold Technologies Moisture Man-agement System™. The system,from Mold Technologies Inc. ofSalem, Ore., was built aroundMoldTech™ inspection softwaremanufactured by Core Environ-mental Corp®.

“We think that this is a 21st cen-tury solution to a problem that’sbeen around since the dawnof time,” said

Gary Wolcott, director of communi-cations for PIA, of the system.

The association has alsoannounced its official endorse-ment of the system and formed aclose working relationship withthe software manufacturer, CoreEnvironmental Corp.

The endorsement states in part:“The PIA Western Alliancebelieves MoldTech mold inspec-tion software, the technologydeveloped by Core EnvironmentalCorp. and processes used by MoldTechnologies™ are a major benefitto insurance companies and con-sumers and for this reason the PIAWestern Alliance has endorsedthis technology.”

As part of its backing, the PIA iscurrently developing resources tomake mold inspectors certified byMold Technologies available to itsmembers. Areas in which the PIAwould like its members to utilizeinspectors using the mold inspec-

tion protocol-managementtools is in new home con-struction, new policyunderwriting and re-evalu-ation of homes with previ-ous mold or water damage.

According to DennisRagain, presi-

dent of Mold Technologies, PIA’snational office is currently lookinginto adopting the system.

Some High-End Homes to beInsured Against Floods

Several private-sector insurancegroups, including AmericanInternational Group Inc. (AIG),Chubb Corp., Fireman’s Fund andLloyd’s, are introducing new cover-age designed to protect high-endhomeowners from water damageresulting from floods, according to aSeptember article in The WallStreet Journal.

Standard homeowners’ policiesdon’t cover flood damage, and untilnow flood coverage could only bepurchased through the NationalFlood Insurance Program (NFIP)run by the Federal EmergencyManagement Agency—but only forhomes in designated flood areas.

One of the new options for high-end homeowners is to buy a sepa-rate “excess flood” insurance policyin addition to the standard NFIPflood coverage, according to thearticle. The excess flood insurancecovers damage above the $250,000federal limit.

According to the article, AIG’sPrivate Client Group began includ-ing flood coverage last year, target-ing homeowners who purchasepolicies of at least $1 million incoverage. Like the NFIP coverage,AIG’s primary flood insurance cov-ers up to $250,000 to rebuildstructures and $100,000 to replacepersonal property. However, AIG’scoverage adds insurance for thingsthe federal plan typically does not,providing money for basement fin-ishes and contents, as well as livingexpenses if the homeowners aredisplaced by a flood.

AIG’s primary flood coverage, how-ever, is currently available only in

I n s u r a n c e W a t c h

m

PIA Holds Insurance Industry Summit

14 | January-February 06 Mold & Moisture Management

California, Colorado, Connecticut,Illinois and Massachusetts, and doesnot cover homeowners in high-riskflood zones.

Anyone who resides in a city orcounty that participates in the feder-al program is eligible to buy floodinsurance. A list of participatingareas is available on the NFIP Website, www.floodsmart.gov. m


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Excess flood insurance policies, nowavailable from some insurance companies,cover costs of flood damage above thefederal policy’s $250,000 cap.

Post Mortem: What Happened?


➧By Peter Sierck, an industrial hygienist and the director ofEnvironmental Testing & Technology Inc. He participated in thedevelopment of the IICRC standards S500 for professional waterrestoration and the S520 for professional mold remediation. Petercan be reached by e-mail at [email protected].

TT he mild climate in Southern California invitesretirees from all over the United States andCanada to spend their golden years under the

warm and ever-present sunshine of the Pacific coast.Upscale retirement communities can be foundembracing their own golf course or as high rise con-dominiums with an ocean view.

This particular high-end, 21-story condominiumhad chronic water intrusions, which triggered a law-suit with an extensive discovery phase. The investi-gation identified water intrusions through the exte-rior wall assembly, windows, sliding doors anddecks. The building envelope consisted of an exteri-or insulation and finish system (EIFS). An EIFS ismade up of sheets of polystyrene foam (styrofoam)glued to exterior drywall sheeting and then sealed

with co-polymer coating on the outside. No buildingpaper or interior drainage plane is present in thistype of assembly.

Once a monetary settlement was reached, therepair process began. The remediation plan requiredthe removal and replacement of the entire buildingenvelope, all windows and glass sliding doors, thedeck membranes and flashings. However, the reloca-tion costs for the residents were estimated at about$9 million. To save the cost of relocation, an innova-tive approach to allow the residents to stay in theunits while work was developed. We termed thisprocess “working from the outside in.”

Containing the BuildingThe work plan consisted of building an exterior

containment around the structure that was negativepressurized in relationship to the interior residentialunits. This allowed removal of the exterior sheetingand the inspection of interior drywall from the out-side (exterior containment). Local interior contain-ments were built where interior drywall needed to beremoved. The containment was tested upon comple-

tion of the local reme-diation. However, anumber of engineeringchallenges had to besolved.

The project wasdivided into sevenphases with three floorsper phase beginning atthe penthouse level.“Trigger points” as towhen interior materialsneed to be removed andwhat constituted suc-cessful post remedia-tion verification weredetermined.

First, the structural-ly-engineered scaffoldsystem around thebuilding was erected.Steel beams andcolumns were installedto transfer the struc-tural loads through

administrative officesand two levels of park-

To save the cost of relocating residents, the remediation crew created a negative-pressurizedcontainment around the exterior of this condo.

Working From the Outside InHigh Rise Residents Look Out on Mold Remediation

Rem

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ing garages down to the bottom slab.The scaffolding was shrink-wrapped and 24

HEPA-filtered negative air machines were put inthe exterior containment under negative pres-sure, creating between 30 and 40 air exchangesper hour. This assured a managed airflow frominside the residential condominiums to the exte-rior containment and dilution ventilation for theexterior containment.

Workers then started to cut and remove theEIFS paneling 450 feet above ground level.Initially, a pressure differential of minus 12 to 18Pascal was achieved. However, once large sec-tions of exterior sheeting were removed, the neg-ative pressure dropped significantly. The nega-tive pressure was monitored 24/7 and recordedwith a digital manometer with an alarm featurethat announced any critical pressure drop below5 Pascal.

After initial debris clean-up, the interior drywallwas inspected for visible mold growth. Astonishingly,very little damage was detected on the interior drywall.That was good news because unique built-in book-shelves, hand-milled baseboards and expensive wallpa-per complicated remediation of the interior.

Up and Out The new doors and windows arrived next and were

installed on the penthouse level. The units wereinspected and water tested—and we found that theydid not fit properly and were leaking. They went backto the manufacturer for design changes. Meanwhile,the mold remediation work continued into the nextphases, making its way down the high-rise.

Scaffoldings were constructed to bear a specificload. The top of the scaffold was scheduled to be dis-mantled upon completion of the installation of thewindows and reconstruction of the exterior buildingenvelope. However, at phase 4, the scaffoldingreached its maximum approved load capacity and theentire mold remediation project came to a full stop.

By then it was late summer, with the winter andthe possibility of rain storms was fast approaching.The recently-remediated elevations of the buildingthat did not have a repaired exterior wall assemblyand were protected by the shrink-wrapped scaffoldonly would be very vulnerable to further water intru-sions. Everybody was waiting for the arrival of thenew refitted windows. Two month went by beforethey finally arrived.

Modifying the System Engineers concluded that an EIFS cladding system

needed to be reinstalled, as a stucco system wouldexceed the structural load capacity of the structure. Toprevent future mold growth, a modified drainage planeEIFS system was designed. This new “waterproof”assembly consisted of:• use of exterior glass-mat gypsum sheeting to elimi-

nate the mold growth-supporting cellulose nutrientsource (paper);

• application of a primer to provide an adhesive coat-ing for the bitumen membrane;

• application of a self-adhering bitumen membrane toprovide a drainage plane;

• installation of an expanded metal lath system to pro-vide drainage channels; and

• foam board, taping, a base coat and color finish coat.Finally, the scaffolding was removed from the top lev-

els and hope rose that the project would concludebefore the year’s end. Three months later, eighteenmonths after the project began, the last interior con-tainment was cleared and in early spring, all repairswere completed.

Overall, only relatively small amounts of molddamaged interior drywall were detected andremoved. The project cost stayed within its $11 mil-lion budget using the innovative exterior contain-ment concept. The new modified drainage plane EIFSbuilding envelope is now a very reliable cladding andrain water management system. m

m January-February 06 | 17www.moldmag.com

The remediation of this condo offered several challenges, includingconstruction of an exterior containment system upon 21 story scaffolding.

Remediation

COMPANY NEWS

RestorAid Disaster Services Honored with Torch Award

RestorAid Disaster Services of Woodlawn, Ohio, hasbeen awarded the Cincinnati Better Business Bureau’s(BBB) Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics.

According to a news release from RestorAid, thecompany received the award for demonstrating highethical standards and integrity toward customers,suppliers, shareholders, employees and communitiesin which they do business.

“The Torch Award encompasses the spirit and traditionof the BBB unlike anything else,” said BBB presidentJocile Ehrlich. “It recognizes and honors businesses andorganizations that fully commit themselves to ethicalpractices in all aspects of their business dealings.”

The Cincinnati BBB is one of the largest in thenation, and this award holds special significance.This marked the first time it has ever been awardedto a restoration company in this area and one of thefew times that it has ever been awarded to a compa-ny on the first nomination. It is a lifetime award thatthe company cannot receive again, althoughRestorAid is now eligible for the international 2006BBB Torch Award.


PDG Environmental Announces Acquisition of Lange America

Pittsburgh-based PDG Environmental Inc. (PDGE), anational specialty contractor, announced that is hasacquired certain assets, backlog and operations ofLange America Inc., a Los Angeles-based mold andasbestos remediation company. The acquisition wasfinalized November 18, 2005. Terms of the acquisitionhave not been disclosed.

John Regan, chairperson and chief executive officer ofPDG Environmental, commented, “PDGE is very pleasedto have been able to take advantage of this opportunity.Lange’s customer base will significantly improve ouralready extensive contact and customer list in theSouthern California market. There is very little overlapbetween our current customer base and Lange’s. Lange’sannual revenues are approximately $3.5 to $4 millionand PDGE will be assuming Lange’s $2 to $2.5 millionbacklog. Existing Lange management will join PDGE andoperations will be consolidated at PDGE’s operations cen-ter in Fullerton (a Los Angeles suburb).”

Regan added, “PDGE continues to explore bothopportunistic and strategic acquisitions where appro-priate, and Lange met our criteria.”


MARCOR Announces Expansion into Midwest MARCOR Remediation Inc. of Hunt Valley, Md., a

provider of environmental contracting services, isexpanding its reach into the Midwest market, accord-ing to David A. Jungers, president and chief operatingofficer. The first step of this expansion is the openingof a new office in the Pittsburgh, Pa., area.

“We have a very strong presence on the East, Westand South. With this new office, we are building ourfoundation to better serve our Midwest clients,”Jungers said. “We have always served the Midwestregion of the country, but we now feel we can greatlyimprove our service by opening a regional office.”

The initial geographic focus of the Pittsburgh officewill be western Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky,Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana.The new office, under the direction of general managerJim Bliss, is based in Cranberry Township, Pa.

Heading up the major expansion into the Midwest isTony Skenzich, regional manager.

In the South Central region of the country, the compa-ny is opening a new office in the New Orleans area.

“We established this new office to provide environ-mental and demolition services to help cleanup and

News


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The Torch Award was presented to RestorAid Disaster Servicespresident Keith Desserich (center) at a gala event on October 20,2005.

rebuild the region hit hard by Hurricanes Katrina andRita,” said Jungers. The office is based in Saint Rose,La. Mike Burke will manage the office.

The two new offices mark the opening of the compa-ny’s 15th and 16th offices.


Mold Consulting Firm Nationally Recognized a Second Time

For the second year in a row, DiversityBusiness.com,a multicultural business-to-business online portal thatlinks large organizational buyers to multicultural prod-uct and service businesses, has named Pure Air ControlServices of Clearwater, Fla., as one of the top 100diversity-owned businesses in Florida.

Pure Air Control Services, in business for over 20years, is thelargest indoorenvironmen-tal consultingcompany inFlorida, withan in-houseAIHA-accred-ited environ-mental micro-biology labo-ratory. TheIAQ consult-ing firm wasalso recently

awarded a GSA contract, providing diagnostic and reme-diation services directly to federal government agencies.

“We are proud of our firm’s efforts as a minority-ownedbusiness, and to be among this elite group of companiesand individuals,” said Alan Wozniak, president and chiefexecutive officer of Pure Air Control Services.


IN ACTION

Sabre Technical Services “Fumigates” New Orleans Landmark to Remove Mold

Pascal’s Manale, the New Orleans landmark restaurantthat created the world famous dish barbecue shrimp, wasfumigated with chlorine dioxide gas in November 2005 byAlbany, N.Y.-based Sabre Technical Services. The methodis actually being used in New Orleans to combat theheavy mold and other biological contaminants resultingfrom the flooding following Hurricane Katrina.

John Mason, president and chief executive officer ofSabre Technical Solutions said, “Sabre’s method ofmold treatment is the only EPA-registered product thatuses a fumigant to decontaminate an entire structure.”

He went on to explain that a structure fumigatedwith chlorine dioxide does not have to be strippedand gutted as is done with traditional mold remedia-tion. Because the gas penetrates interior wall spacesand is effective on hard, porous and non-porous sur-faces, it is not necessary to remove mold-affectedareas of a structure. Moreover, the fumigationprocess is complete in one day, allowing for rapidrecovery and rebuilding of these compromised struc-tures. Chlorine dioxide fumigation removes moldfrom the rebuilding equation.

Mason added, “Sabre mobilized its equipment andpersonnel to New Orleans within days after the flood-ing. It is an honor to be working with key business own-ers and homeowners helping during these difficulttimes in Louisiana.”

Chlorine dioxide is a micro-biocide that has beenused for disinfection and sterilization in the food anddrinking water industries for more than seventyyears. It does not form toxic byproducts, is environ-mentally friendly and leaves no residual toxicity.Chlorine dioxide gas penetrates into all surfaces,including interior wall cavities, porous surfaces, car-pets, ducting and insulation. The treatment elimi-nates the need for traditional “rip and replace” moldremediation and substantially reduces the cost andduration of renovation.


m January-February 06 | 19www.moldmag.com

BRIEFLY …EMLab™ has opened a new microlab in Baton

Rouge, La. The new lab has a drop off location inNew Orleans, 24 hours turnaround time on sporetrap and direct exam analysis and 24/7 online accessto reports and invoices. ➟ www.moldmag.com/infocenter… The Infrared Training Center has announced itscourse schedule through May 2006. The courses,held at the ITC headquarters in Boston, offer infraredtraining programs including predictive maintenance,thermography, research and development and appli-cation courses in building science. In addition, thetraining center now has an infrared thermographyprimer, answering common questions about infrared thermography, available on its website.

➟ www.moldmag.com/infocenter …

Pure Air Control Services has been recognizedas one of the top diversity-owned businesses inFlorida.

Remediation

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DISINFECTANTS

Sporicidin International Offers EPA-Registered Disinfectant

Sporicidin International, based in Rockville, Md., isoffering its Sporicidin disinfectant for mold remedia-tion. The disinfectant is suitable for mold remediation,air duct cleaning, sewer backflow clean-up and carpetdecontamination in residential and commercial build-ings. It is also an active deodorant that kills the organ-isms that cause odors.

According to information provided by the company,a two-year study at the University of Maryland by Dr.George Bean, department of cell biology and moleculargenetics, found that Sporicidin prevented mold growth(notably of stachybotrys and chaetomium) and provid-ed “continuous residual fungistatic activity for fourmonths after application.” The study also showed thetreatment to be useful on drywall before installation for

preventing future mold contamination. The product is EPA-registered to provide continuous

residual bacteriostatic activity for up to six months. Itis also FDA- and OSHA-compliant.


Sensible Life Products EPA-Registered as Botanical Disinfectants

Sensible Life Products (SLP) ofFlamborough, Ontario, is offering abotanical disinfectant with EPA certifi-cation. The EPA stamp of approval forBenefect® is added to official recog-nitions from Health Canada and theEnvironmental Choice Program.

The only disinfectant with food-grade, plant-based biodegradableingredients, Benefect kills more than99.99 percent of fungi, as well as bac-teria, TB and HIV, according to acompany news release. No mixing isrequired before applying the product,and once it is sprayed onto an area, there is no need forrinsing or wiping.

Although suitable for homeowners’ use, companyinformation says that the product can be used by con-tractors for hard surface disinfection on constructionmaterials, such as frame lumber, concrete or drywall,as well as for mold abatement. It is also recommendedfor use in commercial and medical applications, includ-ing: food preparation and storage facilities; day cares

Products


CLEANERSAnabec Provides Mold Clean-Up

The Anabec Systems, from AnabecInc. of Clarence, N.Y., are science-basedproduct lines developed to reduce indoorallergens and remove strains of mold andbacteria in porous building materials suchas wood, brick, block, concrete, ceilingtile, insulation and flooring.

The company’s remediation systemsclean and protect treated building sur-faces with the reduction of colony-forming units and long-term protection.The Anabec Advanced CleaningSolution is a patented detergent withhigh contact and penetrating ability. The cleanerremoves the food source for the mold and bacteria,

leaving a pristine surface behind. Themicrobial barrier Anabec X-70 and EPA-registered antimicrobial shield,AnaShield, provide durable bondingagents that inhibit the reoccurrence ofmicrobial growth and provide long termprotection.

All of the company’s product sys-tems average 1,000 square feet pergallon and when applied by a trainedAnabec applicator come with writtenwarranties for up to 30 years.

The systems have been used inschools, office buildings, homes and

healthcare facilities across the country.


and nurseries; hospitals; hotels and restaurants;schools; and other similar application sites where bac-teria, mold and mildew or odors are a concern.


Moldex™ Designed for Range of Uses Moldex, from EnviroCare Corp. of

Wilmington, Mass., is an EPA-regis-tered disinfectant, sanitizer andcleaner. Useful for household clean-ing, it is also suitable for use as an indus-trial cleaner for water damage restoration.According to information from thecompany, Moldex has also beenapproved for use as a hospital-grade disinfectant. Specifically for-mulated as a fungicide and mildew-stat, it is based on a proven quater-nary ammonium blend and pack-aged in a ready-to-use form.


BioTech Medics Commences Selling SHBAN™ Biotech Disinfectant

BioTech Medics Inc. of Irving, Texas, has begun mar-keting and selling its SHBAN™ Biotech disinfectantand cleaning solution.

According to company information, the SHBANBioTech Solution is an effective, odorless, non-chlo-rine-based, anti-mold, anti-fungal, cleaning solutionthat may be used safely as directed in a variety ofways. The disinfectant may be used on porousclothes and materials as well as hard surfaces.SHBAN is sold in 16-ounce, 32-ounce and 1-galloncontainers.


SOFTWARE

Leviticus Corp. Adds Modules forInspector/Remediator Software

Leviticus Corp. of Traverse City, Mich., has releasednew add-on modules for its Leviticus PRO 2005 docu-ment compliance software for mold inspectors andremediators. The software allows users to integratecustomer management, basic and advanced report gen-eration—from mold inspections to remediation scopesand estimates—and financial information.

In addition to time-saving advances, the software hasadded flexible integration with QuickBook® account-

ing softwareand a graph-ical imagingmodule thatallows usersto manipu-late digitalimages within the Leviticus software.

According to a company news release, the product isscalable from a single user to an entire enterprise. Thesoftware’s “open-architecture” design allows Leviticusto expand as needed with a growing business.

The company says the new software is endorsed bythe National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP),Integrated Microbiological Services Laboratory LLCand recommended by the Environmental EducationFoundation (EEF) as well as the National Indoor AirQuality Institute (NIAQI).


METERS

New Fluke 971 Meter Measures Temperature, Humidity

Fluke Corp. of Everett, Wash., a manufactur-er of handheld test and measurement prod-

ucts, has introduced the Fluke 971 tempera-ture humidity meter. The rugged, pocket-sized test tool was designed for profession-als in the heating, ventilation and air con-ditioning (HVAC), building maintenanceand indoor air quality (IAQ) fields.

The Fluke 971 measures temperature,dew point or wet bulb from -4° Fahrenheit to140° Fahrenheit (±1.0° Fahrenheit) andmeasures relative humidity from 5 percentto 95 percent (±2.5 percent RH). Its 99-pointdata storage capacity means users can take

multiple readings and store them for later analysis. The meter features a liquid crystal display with back-

light and a low battery indicator. The unit operates onfour AAA alkaline batteries. With its pocket-size con-venience and durability, the Fluke 971 gives HVACtechnicians and building managers an accurate, simpletool to ensure HVAC systems are operating within spec-ification. Industrial hygienists will find it useful foridentifying conditions that encourage biologicalgrowth, and verifying that measures to control humidi-ty are working.



Remediation

Mold & Moisture Management

What better way to prevent those winter blues than by throwing some-thing a little unusual into your schedule? And while you’re at it, why notpick up the information and products you need to do a better job? Why notaccomplish both with a trip to a sunny Southern city or a flight into aMidwestern metropolis with something for everyone?

Good things come in pairs this January as two big shows—theInternational Builders’ Show (IBS) and the International Air-Conditioning,Heating, Refrigerating Exposition (AHR Expo)—offer up hundreds ofexhibitors, present unique events and in general make learning fun.

International Builders’ ShowThe holidays have drawn to a close but builders are just getting ready to

gorge themselves upon the biggest educational treat of all. The annualInternational Builders Show, sponsored by the National Association ofHome Builders (NAHB), will be held January 11-14. More than 200 educa-tional sessions, more than 1,600 exhibitors and more attendees than everbefore will fill the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.

Another treat is the keynote speaker at the grand opening ceremonies.“We are very honored to have Colin Powell as the keynote speaker for

the 2006 International Builders’ Show,” said NAHB president Dave Wilson. Now here’s something special just for MMoollddmmaagg readers: an early look at

some of the products that will be featured at the show can be found in ourspecial products section on page 24.

Be sure to visit MMoollddmmaagg at booth W7000!

Colin Powell to Give IBS Keynote AddressA noted statesman, a highly respected soldier and the nation’s 65th

Secretary of State, General Colin L. Powell will be thekeynote speaker at the grand opening ceremonies of the 2006International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Fla.

Gen. Powell served in the United States Army for 35 years,rising to the rank of Four-Star General and serving as chair-man of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1989 to 1993. Beforebecoming Secretary of State, he served as an aide to the

Secretary of Defense and as NationalSecurity Advisor to President Reagan.

The grand opening ceremony and keynoteaddress begins at 10:30 a.m. on January 11.Limited general seating is available on afirst-come, first-served basis.

IBS Hours: Wednesday, January 119:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Thursday, January 129:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday, January 139:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday, January 149:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Two Industry Meetings Offer LearningOpportunities: A Preview of the Builders Show and AHR Expo

S h o w P r e v i e w

Winter Wonderland

www.moldmag.com January-February 06 | 23

AHR Expo HoursMonday, January 2310 a.m. – 6 p.m.Tuesday, January 2410 a.m. – 6 p.m.Wednesday, January 2510 a.m. – 4 p.m.

AHR ExpoThe largest HVAC&R event of the

year—the International Air-Condi-tioning, Heating, RefrigeratingExposition (AHR Expo)—will takeplace January 23-25 at theMcCormick Place in Chicago. TheAmerican Society of Heating,Refrigerating and Air-ConditioningEngineers Inc. (ASHRAE), the Air-Conditioning and RefrigerationInstitute (ARI) and the Heating,Refrigeration and Air ConditioningInstitute of Canada (HRAI), all co-sponsors of the event, are expect-ing more than 35,000 visitors tosee 1,800 exhibitors—includingMMoollddmmaagg in booth 1143.

Architects, engineers, buildersand contractors looking to designand integrate HVAC systems moreefficiently can meet with manufac-turers and new suppliers, see livedemonstrations of products inaction, find the latest technologyand network and learn fromexperts and peers.

If you’re looking to spend a littlemore time in the Windy City andget a little more information, comein early for the educational oppor-tunities found at the ASHRAEWinter Meeting, being held January21-25 at the Palmer House HiltonHotel.

But why wait? You can see someof the products from theseexhibitors in our special productssection starting on page 24.

continued on page 24


WALLBOARDIBS Booth #W3159: Georgia-Pacific Stops Mold in Its Tracks with New Advertising Campaign

Atlanta-based G-P Gypsum Corp., a wholly-ownedsubsidiary of Georgia-Pacific Corp., has launched a newconsumer-oriented “Stop Feeding Mold™” advertisingcampaign for the company’s mold- and moisture-resist-ant DensArmor® Plus interior wallboard product line.

The campaign is intended to educate consumersabout the company’s paperless interior wallboard thatcan reduce the risk of mold growth in residential con-struction. DensArmor Plus specifically targets one ofmold’s food sources—the paper found on most interiorwallboard products. The campaign spotlights howDensArmor Plus is the only interior wallboard availablein North America featuring mold- and moisture-resist-ant glass mat facings, which replace the paper facingsused in the manufacture of traditional drywall.

Traditionally, Georgia Pacific has marketed its build-ing products almost exclusively to the building productsindustry. The “Stop Feeding Mold” consumer advertis-ing for DenArmor Plus interior wallboard provides anew mechanism for helping pull through sales of prod-ucts for the building and construction industries.


WEATHER BARRIERIBS Booth #S12385: Valéron Vortec Promotes Water Drainage

Valéron Strength Films of Houston is now offering itsVortec™ water-resistive barrier, a moisture managementsolution for the building and construction industries.The barrier is engineered with millions of non-direction-al drainage channels that allow moisture to drain fully.

Vortec is a thin,flexible plastic filmmicro-perforatedand engineered witha pattern of dim-ples and bumps.

The barrier is installed on the exterior of a home orcommercial building during construction. The engi-neered surface facilitates water drainage by channelingany water that gets past the siding away from a struc-ture’s exterior wall surface, thereby reducing thechance of mold and mildew.

According to a company news release, the productis the company’s first direct-to-user brand.


Whether you’re looking to prioritize yourmold prevention needs or looking to see whatall the fuss is about, our preview of theInternational Builders Show and theInternational Air-Conditioning, Heating,Refrigerating Exposition will give you a glanceinto some of the prevention products to befeatured at two big shows this January.

SIDINGIBS Booth #W1559: LP® SmartSide® Meets Exterior Siding Standards

Moisture-resistant SmartSide siding products, fromLouisiana-Pacific of Nashville, are treated with resinto provide protection from moisture and zinc borateto resist termites and fungal decay. In fact, theSmartSide products were jungle-tested in Hilo,Hawaii, one of the world’s most-voluminous rainfallclimates, where the volume of repetitive annual mois-

S h o w P r e v i e wcontinued

A PRODUCT PREVIEW OF THE

Builders Show AND AHR Expo

A PRODUCT PREVIEW OF THE

Builders Show AND AHR Expo


DESSICANTS Silica Gel Used to Stop Moisture and Mold in Home Construction

Desiccants have been used for decades to controlmoisture-related problems such as mold and corrosionin nearly every industry. Dry-Stuff desiccant strips fromAutumn River Inc. of Coon Rapids, Minn., have beensized for a typical 2-by-4 or 2-by-6 wall cavity built 8feet tall and 16 inches on center. The desiccant blendencapsulated within the strip is capable of adsorbing upto 40 percent of its own weight in moisture.

By hanging one desiccant strip in each exterior wallcavity, enough drying capacity is introduced to ensurethat framing lumber moisture content will quickly bedried to below 20 percent, the common threshold for

mold growth on lumber. This typically occurs within 48hours of installing the desiccant strip and applying thevapor retarder. The desiccant technology is also appli-cable for water damage situations.

The dry-stuff desiccant strip is capable of regenerat-ing itself and offers continuing protection. The productwill quickly absorb excess moisture when the humidityand moisture-related damage potential is high, and willslowly release the stored moisture when humidity andmoisture-related damage potential is very low.


FLASHINGIBS Booth #W5971: Pactiv Adds Greenguard®Flashing to Moisture Management System

Pactiv Corp. of Lake Forest, Ill., has introduced twoself-adhering flashing membranes to its line of moisturemanagement products: GreenGuard flashing andGreenGuard SuperStretch™ flashing. Both flashings aredesigned to deflect water that would otherwise enteraround windows and doors, channeling it down the faceof wall and directing it away from the structure.

GreenGuard flashing conforms to irregular sur-faces caused by nails, uneven spots in wood sheath-ing and window flange edges or joints. The resulteliminates gaps that could lead to the developmentof water canals. The membrane also demonstratesconsistent initial adhesion across a broad range ofinstallation temperatures. The membrane incorpo-rates a split-release design, which allows for easyand fast application.

GreenGuard SuperStretch flashing is an extremelyflexible, self-adher-ing flashing mem-brane that is high-ly conformable andstretches in anydirection, makingit an ideal choicefor flashing curvedand three-dimen-sional shapes.

A distinct composition allows each product to cre-ate airtight and watertight seals that fully adhere towood, polystyrene sheathings and housewraps. Bothflashing products are composed of high performancebutyl-rubber formulations and contain no asphalt,volatile organic compounds or solvents.



ture is more extreme than that of hurricanes, accord-ing to information from the company.

In addition, the siding products can be used in allwind zones, including U.S. coastal areas, and have beenwind-tested to 130 mph. The products exceed theAmerican Plywood Association standard for exteriorsiding, meet standards set forth in National EvaluationReport 124 from ICC-ES and have been approved byFlorida’s building code.



LITERATUREIBS Booth #W2982: Southern Pine Council to Showcase Raised Floor Information

In the wake of the destructive 2005 hurricane seasonalong the Gulf Coast, the Southern Pine Council (SPC),a source for wood information, is launching a campaignto educate builders to “Build Smart” when building, and

rebuilding, through-out the country.

SPC is offeringbuilders completeinformation onraised floor sys-tems, mold pre-vention, blue-stainlumber and ter-mite-resistant wood.Brochures, photos,case histories andexpert analysis onthe topics men-tioned above areavailable.

New literatureavailable includes the following titles: Southern PineHeaders & Beams, Southern Pine Patterns, andRediscover Raised Floor Systems. All SPC literaturetitles are available on one new literature CD.

In addition, the Council has released a new FAQbrochure that provides key information about blue-stained Southern Pine lumber. Facts about Blued Pineexplains that the stain found in reclaimed Southernpine timber is a natural but harmless discoloration thatis not mold, does not pose any health risks and doesnot affect lumber strength. Complemented with full-color photos, the Facts about Blued Pine brochure isavailable from the Council’s website.


DECKINGIBS Booth #S11813: Deck Protector® Seals Out Water from Decks

Grace Construction Products of Cambridge, Mass.,offers Grace Vycor Deck Protector® self-adhered flash-ing as a solution for extending the effective life of decksby protecting against corrosion and joist rot.

Water tends to accumulate and remain on the sur-face of deck joists and other structural elements for

extended periods of time with fastener holes andcracks providing direct access for water penetration.This water can cause even treated structures to rot pre-maturely, shortening the useful life of the entire deck.The Vycor Deck Protector self-adhered flashing mem-brane seals around the tops of deck joists to create animpervious barrier against water and moisture, reduc-ing the likelihood of rot and extending the effective lifeof the deck.

The deck protector may be used under all deckingmaterials, and its self-adhering membrane enables fast,easy installation. The product includes a skid-resistantcoating and measurement markings on the membranesurface to simplify application.


DOOR COMPONENTSIBS Booth #S10751: FrameSaver Introduces Stain-Grade, Rot-Resistant Door Frames

FrameSaver of Nacogdoches, Texas, has announced the expansion ofits FrameSaver® product line with its stain-grade door frames. Knownfor its rot-resistant, moisture-proof, wood door frames, the companynow offers the same technology and money-back guarantee in a stain-grade option.

Built for entry and patio doors, the frames are offered in widths from4 1/8 inches to 7 1/4 inches, with lengths of 6 feet 8 inches and 8 feet. Theinitial stain-grade product offering is available in Radiata Pine.

The company is currently in the research and development phase ofadding the stain-grade option for additional wood species.




METERSAHR Booth #3561: Shinyei Corp. of America Offers New Aerosol Monitor

Shinyei Corp. of Americabased in San Diego hasintroduced to the market itsaerosol monitor, AES-1000,to monitor indoor airborneparticulate level.

AES-1000 features an easy-to read dis-play that shows current indoor air cleanlinesslevels by using a scale of one to ten LED lights. Themonitor can detect airborne particles as small as 0.3microns. The monitor can be linked to Ethernet systemwith the purpose of monitoring air cleanliness levelusing an existing LAN cable.

The particle sensor technology is now part of a sys-tem solution for users wanting to improve the clean-liness of indoor environments, particularly for com-mercial industries.


AHR Booth #5677: New Humidity Alert Meter Available from Extech

Extech Instruments, a supplier of test and meas-urement equipment for the industrial marketplace,will showcase its new 445815 humidity alert meter atthe AHR Expo. The new humidity alert meter fea-tures a user-settable alarm and will warn users, bothaudibly and visually, when adverse conditions occur.

The meter also has a remote probe that can eitherclip onto the meter or extend on an 18-inch cable,where the user can take measurements behind wallsor other difficult-to-access areas. A large digit LCDscreen allows for the simultaneous display of humid-ity, temperature and dew point. The meter measureshumidity from 10 to 99 percent relative humidity(RH) and temperature from 14 to 140° Fahrenheit,with an accuracy of ±4 percent RH; ±1.8° Fahrenheit.


MASONRY PRODUCTSIBS Booth #W2589: Tamlyn Weep Hole Cover Manages Moisture

The patented Weep Hole Cover™ from Tamlyn &Sons Building Materials of Dallas, Texas, was designedto provide efficient management of moisture and airflow, preventing the growth of mold and damagecaused by freeze/thaw cycles.

The cover breaks up mortar and prevents mortardamming for proper water flow and air circulation,while also helping to keep bugs out of the house. Theuniquely shaped material permits air and water tomove through the cover. The durable, non-reactivematerial is designed to last the life of the building.According to company information, it can also beinstalled over windows and doors.


COATINGSAHR Booth #4573: EPA-Registered Coating Prevents Mold on HVAC Components

Design Polymerics of Fountain Valley, Calif., hasintroduced its DP 2545 protective coating for pre-venting mold and mildewgrowth. The water-based coat-ing is formulated with an EPA-registered preservative thatprevents the growth of mold.

According to information fromthe company, DP 2545 forms adurable, flexible film over metal,fiberglass insulation and woodused in HVAC and general con-struction applications.

➟www.moldmag.com/infocenter.



COATINGSIBS Booth #W2986: FrameGuard™ XP Coating Added to Arch Product Line

Arch Wood Protection of Smyrna, Ga., has announcedthe addition of FrameGuard XP coating to its line ofproducts for lumber’s effective resistance of mold, ter-mites and fungal decay.

According to information from the company, extend-ed exposure to running water will dilute and eventuallydeplete the solution’s effect, but it is designed to provideresistance during the time that wood is stored at the job-site and during construction.

The solution is a water-based, proprietary combi-nation of patented and EPA-registered componentsthat provide broad protection against mold and wood-destroying organisms. The coating is applied by spray or dip at anOEM plant, lumber mill or distribution yard where the quality ofcoverage can be precisely controlled. In addition to its use on lum-ber and plywood, the coating works on oriented strand board, paral-lel strand lumber, laminated veneer lumber and wood I-beams.Coated products are readily identified by the blue dye mixed in withactive ingredients.


Moisture occurs naturally in the unseencavities behind residential brick walls.

As a result, brick wall-cavities used tobe breeding-grounds for mold.

But then we invented HouseNetTM. Itstough polyester mesh, cut into our patented"dovetail" shape, lets water escape fromwalls while letting air circulate freely.

Mold-conscious families demandHouseNetTM in their brick walls. Farsightedbuilders specify HouseNetTM by name.

HouseNetTM - think of it as cheapinsurance for your peace of mind.

800-664-6638

www.MortarNet.com/mmm

Use of our products may help youobtain credits toward

LEEDTM Green Building Certification.


SEE US AT THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS’ SHOW • For more information, visit www.moldmag.com/infocenter

➧By Megan Headley, the editor of Moldmag.

JJohn Dattilo, the owner ofCardinal Custom Homes inHuntsville, Ala., takes aproactive approach when itcomes to mold prevention,

since groundwater infiltration ofthe crawlspace is a common prob-lem in the areas where he builds.However, he worries that his fore-sight isn’t largely mirrored by thebuilding industry.

“From the experience I’ve had,”said Dattilo, “there’s not enoughconcern [about mold] from ourindustry in general.”

Clint Allen, a managing memberof Allen Oyler LLC, a national dis-tributor for the FortiCel coating,has found that many of the buildershe speaks to are very skepticalabout mold and the need for prod-ucts to control it.

“Anytime we say we’re trying tosell you something to keep you frombeing sued—we get a very negativereaction,” said Allen.

Still, as awareness builds aboutthe results of moisture intrusion ina home, builders are finding thatthere are actions that they can taketo prevent future mold problems.

Charles Morando is a 40-year vet-eran of the building industry andthe chief executive officer ofWoodSmart Solutions of BocaRaton, Fla., a manufacturer ofmold-prevention coatings for lum-ber. He feels that more builders arebecoming aware of actions they cantake to prevent mold.

“It has evolved into [an attitudeof] ‘I better do something about it,’”said Morando. “They’re concernedabout the liability.”

Lawrence Shapiro, residential

Mold & Moisture Management

How Action DuringConstructionCan PreventMold Growth in the Future

On-SiteAction

30 | January-February 06


business director forGrace Specialty Build-ing Materials, a part ofCambridge, Mass.-based Grace Construc-tion, agrees that morebuilders are looking forinformation about moldprevention.

“It’s no secret thatmold issues are apotential source formajor liability,” saysShapiro. “For peoplewho want to protecttheir business andtheir reputations … it’sa big deal.”

Morando says thatpublic perception isalso feeding buildersconcern about mold.He feels that concernskyrocketed after HurricanesKatrina and Rita swept through theGulf Coast and mold became a sta-ple in the news from that area.

Public perception is part of whathas made Dattilo become soinvolved in mold prevention in thehomes he builds.

“If you don’t [worry about mold]you’re not reading the newspapers,”said Dattilo.

Areas to WatchWhat all of the experts agree on is

that the prevention of moistureintrusion is a primary goal when itcomes to mold prevention.

“The first step in preventing moldis preventing moisture accumula-tion,” says Shapiro.

“You control the moisture andyou’ve gone a long way to control-

ling the mold,” adds Morando.But how to do that exactly can

take a number of forms. “First thing is to make sure

you’ve got a watertight roof,”Shapiro recommends.

Many experts also stress theimportance of having a watertightroof up over an unfinished struc-ture so that moisture does not con-tinue to soak structural lumber longinto the construction process.

Shapiro adds that a watertight roofwill later provide protection fromproblems such as ice dams andwind-driven rain. In areas withheavy snow, ice dams prevent waterfrom properly leaving the roof sys-tem. When an ice dam forms on theroof, water from melting snow hasno place to drain. It backs up behindthe ice, seeps under the shingles and

enters through thewood on the roof deck.In windy areas, shin-gles can be raisedslightly by the wind,allowing water to pene-trate through the roof.A waterproofing under-layment beneath theshingles is Shapiro’ssolution.

“The second areabuilders need to knowabout is water infiltra-tion around windowsand doors,” Shapirosays. “Flashing aroundwindows and doors isabsolutely critical.”

Any penetrations inthe wall, but especiallythose around doorsand windows, are

another prime place the expertsagree where water can easily entera structure. Correctly installedflashing materials around thesepenetrations can prevent waterfrom finding an entrance.

“And of course you want to bevery careful about where youbuild,” Shapiro continues.

Building below the water tablecan lead to issues of groundwaterwicking up into a home’s crawl-space or basement.

“That’s the biggest problem in ourexperience,” says Datillo of ground-water intrusion. “Typically if webuild a house in areas we think thewater table is high we do an evalua-tion of the lot.”

Taking the proactive approach,

Placing a waterproof roofing underlayment beneath shingles may provideprotection from ice dams, wind-driven rain and other causes of leaks.


“People can’t prevent a lot of things that happen during construction—weather especially.”

—Charles Morando, chief executive officer of WoodSmart Solutions

Cardinal Custom Homes includessumps in its building plan in those areas where groundwater is a concern.

“We use a company that puts in adrainage system underneath thehouse,” Datillo says.

Taking a proactive approach ispart of the reason Dattilo says hedoesn’t worry about lawsuits overmold. The company that installs thesumps also offers a guarantee thatthe mitigation will be successful,according to Dattilo.

Problem MaterialsMold prevention product suppli-

ers want builders to know aboutsome of the trouble areas whereextra protection isn’t a bad idea.But even suppliers are drawn intothe courtroom now.

In an October 2005 court case,Crenshaw Lumber Co. Inc., basedin Gardena, Calif., paid the lion’sshare of a $22.6 million settlementawarded to a family that claimedmold in their home caused theiryoung child brain damage—and wasthe result of moldy lumber that hadbeen improperly stored by the lum-beryard (see page 33).

Improper storage of lumber andother materials on the jobsite fre-quently is cited as a cause of moldgrowth by experts, but buildersshould also be cautious about


Common CulpritsOne Window Expert Talks about Mold and Residential Building

➧By Charles Cumpston, a contributing editor of Moldmag.

TT ed Hart, an industry consultant who serves as an expert witness inmold cases and has been in the glass and contract glazing industryfor 50 years, says that the instances of mold are not increasing.

“The incidence of mold has not changed,” he explained. “What has isthe investigation to find it. In the cases where there is defect litigation,and there is water intrusion or penetration, lawyers and those associatedwith these cases are looking carefully to find mold. In my experience, theysee the condensation and blackness you might find on the interior sill ofan aluminum window say, ‘Yes, that is mold.’ But it’s not mold in anymore sense than what you would find in your shower.”

Hart pointed out that many of the leaks stem from aluminum windows,which haven’t been used in significant number in residential constructionfor the last ten years.

“Vinyl has taken over the market,” he explains, “so we don’t end upwith the leaking corners we’ve known it in the past.”

But mold can show up because of other building components, he pointsout, and there are lawyers who aggressively pursue this area.

“When they speak of failure of the window, they are talking about theentire area surrounding it,” he said, “that runs from the sill of the windowall the way to the floor.”

Another component problem that can contribute to mold growth occurs instuccoed structure. Hart explains, “When they staple on the building paper,they will miss the studs and drive a staple through the building paper. Thisbreach is supposed to be covered up but it’s not. So when water comes inagainst the stucco, it finds its way through the building paper to the wall cav-ity and over time that can generate a tremendous amount of mold.

“The same thing happens when they use wood trim around the window,”Hart says. “Two conditions almost always show up in these cases. Usuallythe wood trim has not been back-primed. This means that it will absorb waterbecause it has not been primed and it will warp more easily because it getswet. The second is that no sealant is used in the joints between where thewood trim comes down on the jamb of the window and meets the sill. Overa period of years, if you don’t have sealant in there and you don’t have thispainted and maintained, all these sections open up and collect water. It’s likehaving 1/8-inch ‘holes’ that let water in. Mold then grows and eats throughthe paper and gets into the wall cavity.”

Hart points out that 10 years from now “we won’t be looking at thesecases.” Developers and contractors have learned what they need to do tomake windows more secure. “They have hired people to come in and tellthem how to keep away from these problems,” he explains. “Also theynow use the most expensive flashing paper available and make sure thateverything connected with that window is done properly. Because theyhave been burnt so badly, they’ve wised up.”

With windows more than 10 years old, there’s no guarantee they wereinstalled properly, Hart says. His advice: If there’s any doubt, seal the cor-ners of the windows from the inside. “It gives some insurance and is amaintenance upgrade. Sealants are not designed to work forever althoughthey do a good job.”

Properly installed flashings around doorsand windows can protect these vulnerablewall penetrations from leaks.

www.moldmag.com

checking incoming supplies forsigns of a serious mold problem.

“Lumber contains moisturewhen you get it. It’s hard to find astick of lumber without mold on it.Typically it’s exposed to the weath-er before it gets into the house,”according to Morando. “Almost allof the lumber we receive at theplant has some mold on it.”

Problem Solving Materials?Proper storage of materials dur-

ing construction and attention toinstallation is clearly crucial. Afterall, as Morando says, “People can’tprevent a lot of things that happenduring construction—weatherespecially.”

But how much of mold preven-tion is the right product versusproper attention to installation?

According to Dattilo, it takes acombination of both.

Morando agrees that products arejust one part of the solution. “It’s apart of a comprehensive plan.”

Allen also emphasizes theimportance of the integration ofproducts geared toward mold pre-vention in talking with builders.He adds, however, that the marketexists—despite the reluctance ofmany builders to talk about theneed for products that either assistin stopping water intrusion orremove a food source for mold. Infact, he says, manufacturers are“definitely seeing it growing, evenin markets where we see a build-ing downturn.”

“Now the pressure-treated peopleare sending us their lumber becausethey want the mold protection. Ifthey [builders] don’t use it, they putthemselves in a potentially negli-gent situation,” Morando adds.

“You could address all of thoseissues very simply for very few dol-lars,” says Shapiro.

Compared to the cost of litiga-tion, he might just be right.

California Family Wins Record Mold Settlement According to a story from the Associated Press, a family that claimed

mold in their home caused brain damage to their child has reached a$22.6 million settlement against a lumber company and 16 other defen-dants. The October 19, 2005, settlement is believed to be the largest inthe country for a mold case involving a single-family home.

The case is considered unusual not only for the settlement amount butalso because contractors, rather than suppliers, are generally held respon-sible for construction defects.

Gary and Dana Gorman of Los Angeles claimed that their son Kellenbecame sick because of mold on framing studs that had been improperlystored by Crenshaw Lumber Co. Inc. of Gardena, Calif. The studs wereused in the custom-built Manhattan Beach home the family lived in forabout two years beginning in 1999.

Crenshaw settled the day after Los Angeles Superior Court JudgeVictoria G. Chaney barred the wood supplier from using 10 of its 17experts, including a toxicologist and a microbiologist. According to theplaintiff’s lawyer, Brian Witzer, the judge excluded the experts because alawyer for the defense allegedly missed a deadline for designating wit-nesses and backdated a document to cover it up.

Larry Olson, who owns Crenshaw Lumber with his brother, Lindsay,said he felt bad for the family, but denied that his company was at fault.He noted that water, which could have caused the mold, leaked into thehouse after the family moved in. He said it would be comparable to suingthe company if a house caught fire.

The Gormans said the blackened studs appeared irregular behind thehouse’s walls, indicating that the wood was contaminated before it wasinstalled.

The settlement came after six weeks of testimony. Neither Crenshawnor any of the other defendants admitted liability. m

January-February 06 | 33m

Improper storage of lumber and other materials on the jobsite is one frequently-citedcause of mold growth that builders can control.


The BUILDINGBLOCKS of

BUILDING

➧ By Alan Goldberg, a contributing writer forMoldmag.

BBuilding science can bedefined as a method ofdesign, construction, in-spection and testing that

considers how all building compo-nents work together. By coordinatingwhen and how components areinstalled, building science can bean important tool for preventingmoisture intrusion.

GOOD COMMUNICATION/GOOD DESIGN

Designed for architects, engineersand researchers, Building ScienceForum 2005 offered a two-day intro-duction to the topic of building sci-ence and a discussion of design andconstruction issues. The sympo-sium, which took place on October 6and 7 in Chicago, was presented bythe Building Enclosure Technologyand Environment Council (BETEC)of the National Institute of BuildingSciences (NIBS).

Research professor Mark Bombergof Syracuse University opened theforum with a question for the audi-ence: why are there so many prob-lems in construction when there isso much information available?

“There is no good communica-tion between research and prac-tice,” Bomberg then answered.“Incomplete design or poor work-

manship causes more damage dur-ing the life of a structure than entryof water.”

Bomberg said that in 95 percentof water damage cases water entryis a result of poor design, whileerrors on the building site accountfor only 5 percent.

Bomberg explained during thecourse of his presentation, Heat, Airand Moisture Transfers AreInseparable, that moisture isinvolved in many damaging process-es. It causes rot and corrosion andaffects building materials’ physicaldimension, stress/stain and heat lossor gain. In a later session, UsingTools to Predict and ResolveMoisture and Mold Problems in theBuilding Envelope, André Desjarlaisfrom Oak Ridge National Laboratorynoted that moisture can be responsi-ble for energy inefficiency, mold, cor-rosion, wood rot, termites and stain-

Professor Mark Bomberg, SyracuseUniversity, reviewed materialcharacterization and benchmarkingexperiments.

“Systems must be designed with anunderstanding of building science.”

—Mark Bomberg, Syracuse University

BBEETTEECC FFoorruumm DDeeffiinneess OOnnee AApppprrooaacchh ttoo

PPrreevveennttiinngg MMooiissttuurree IInnttrruussiioonn


ing. Desjarlais noted that water dam-age is involved in some way in almostevery type of building envelope. In apresentation on Whole Building MoldAssessment, Godfried Augenbroe,associate professor of the College ofArchitecture, Georgia Institute ofTechnology, added that the conse-quences of mold growth in buildingsinclude deterioration to structuresand property damage, adverse healtheffects, low occupant productivityand high-profile litigation.

The remedy for damage frommoisture offered by these and otherresearchers is building science.

Bomberg listed 11 key items relat-ed to building science, among themost important being water vaporflow, rain penetration and air flow.What is needed, Bomberg conclud-ed, is a broad understanding of mate-rials, components and assemblies.

KNOW YOUR MATERIALSBomberg noted during his presen-

tation that many people believe thebest strategy for preventing rainingress is waterproofing the surfaceof the wall. However waterproofinga surface too tightly can mean thatif water should enter it will be verydifficult for the surface to dry.

“This theory proves a lack of build-ing science know-how. Systems mustbe designed with an understanding ofbuilding science, which includesproper venting,” he said.

Desjarlais also pointed out thatusing a polyethylene vapor retarder

makes it impossible for moisture todry on the interior wall. With nopath for water to leave, the exteriorremains wet as well.

In addition, Bomberg warned, allmaterials change in some way dur-ing construction.

Concrete is one particularly trou-blesome material that will changeafter construction.

Desjarlais said that because con-crete holds moisture, there are manylong-term damaging effects. One isvisual degradation on the surface, ormore specifically, staining, microbialgrowth, salt efflorescence, salt crys-tals (caused by elevated water lev-els) and damage due to insufficientfrost-resistance.

Bomberg mentioned anothermaterial problem that can occurwith stucco. Referring to the waterabsorption testing of a stuccostructure done at the TechnicalUniversity of Dresden, Bombergexplained that most of the waterentered through cracks and termi-nations of the stucco. He said thatusing sealant instead of a two-stage joint means that stuccoshrinkage will open cracks aroundthe windows.

THE RIGHT COMPONENTSDonald Onysko of DMO

Consultants spoke on TestingCladding with Drainage Planes.The ability to accommodate waterpenetration is necessary, he said.There are specific practices for dif-

ferent material used in wall systems.“We investigate because we need

to know how systems perform andhow to build for durability,” saidOnysko.

He mentioned that the CanadaMortgage and Housing Corp.(CMHC) did a study on drainageand drying that attempted to meas-ure the water retained in each wallaccurately. The study tested exteri-or insulation and finish system(EIFS) walls, vinyl siding, wood sid-ing and hardboard siding. Eachmaterial was tested in several differ-ent ways. The intention was tomaintain thermal conditions at 0°Celsius and 50-percent relativehumidity for 48 hours after wetting

About NIBSThe National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), a

Washington, D.C.-based non-profit, non-governmentalorganization, was established by the U.S. Congress toenable findings on technical, building-related matters tobe used effectively to improve government, commerceand industry.

According to information from the institute’s website,its public interest mission is to improve the building reg-ulatory environment; facilitate the introduction of new

and existing products and technology into the buildingprocess; and disseminate nationally recognized techni-cal and regulatory information.

The Building Enclosure Technology and EnvironmentCouncil,a part of NIBS, focuses specifically on the per-formance and interaction of building envelope compo-nents and systems and their effect on the environment.The council offers annual symposiums on building top-ics and numerous publications.


Don Onysko, DMO Consultants, describedtests of cladding with drainage planes.

“We investigate because we needto know how systems performand how to build for durability.”

—Donald Onysko, DMO Consultants

continuedon page 36


and drainage. Sixteen relativehumidity temperature sensors wereused to monitor changes in theenvironment. For EIFS testing, wallsystems were selected that repre-sented the most and least amountof water retained.

It was learned that there can beconsiderable variation from EIFSwalls. According to the results, reten-

tion did not take place on joints asexpected with the EIFS wall.

“What we learned is to considerair flow characterization,” Onysko

said.He concluded that testing alone

will not provide all the answers.Modeling—using mathematicalequations to simulate and predictreal events and processes—couldhelp provide the right information.

Anton TenWolde from ForestProducts Laboratory, part of USDAForest Services, described a newstudy in his presentation MoistureConditions in an Unvented RainScreen Wall. The study uses a2,200-square-foot research house inMadison, Wis., to test moistureretention in various wall systemswith vented rain screens.

Test walls, using standard con-struction in average conditions, weremonitored for moisture. Moisturesensors were used on the OSB sidingin ten locations. The use of claddingor lap siding on an open air spaceprovided ventilation through thatspace so there was drain-off withoutmoisture being forced into the struc-ture. Redistribution of moisture thenoccurred. One of the conclusions,

even though this test house is awork-in-progress, is that the airspace provides a better distributionof air and water vapor.

THE RIGHT MODEL FORASSESSING MOLD RISKS

Desjarlais discussed the use ofhygrothermal (heat and moisture)models to determine moisture, airand heat transfer. He indicated thatthere are nearly 40 differenthygrothermal models being used in14 countries. As useful as models maybe, Desjarlais pointed out that everymodel has its limitations. The usermust be aware of what it can and can-not do. A model looks at the most typ-

What’s New for Envelope Design?

During the Building Science Forum, Niklas Vigener, an associate withSimpson, Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) and Paul Totten, a senior staff engi-neer with SGH presented a general overview of the new EnvelopeDesign Guide (EDG). The guidelines cover design suggestions forbelow-grade systems, wall systems, fenestration systems, roofing sys-tems and atria systems. Moisture management is mentioned as animportant consideration throughout.

Totten said that each of the six chapters is written by a different firm,in their area of expertise. NIBS developed the comprehensive guide forexterior envelope design and construction for institutional/office build-ings under guidance from the federal envelope advisory committee. Theguidelines are available for free as a virtual information source on theweb within the Whole Building Design Guide provided by NIBS.

The Envelope Design Guide is continually being improved and updatedthrough the Building Enclosure Councils. Any edits, revisions, updates orinterest in adding new information can be directed to the EDG reviewcommittee via the web at www.wbdg.org/design/envelope.php.

Paul Totten with Simpson Gumpertz & HegerInc. described the wall chapter of the newbuilding enclosure design guide.

ccoonnttiinnuueedd

Niklas Vigener, Simpson Gumpertz &Heger Inc., outlined a chapter of the newbuilding enclosure design guide.

Anton TenWolde, Forest ProductsLaboratory, described test wallsmonitored for moisture.


ical problems and can not predictevery situation that may occur.

One moisture design tool hedescribed as creating effective mod-els is the WUFI ORNL/IBP, whichwas developed for architects andengineers by Oak Ridge NationalLaboratory’s Building TechnologyCenter. From the information thatthe user provides, the software isable to indicate the possibilities ofmold growth based on the condi-tions that are established.

Desjarlais said this particularmodel is “very quick for inputting,”although it requires a lot of informa-tion on material properties—density,porosity, heat capacity, thermal con-ductivity, sorption and suction mois-ture content, water vapor permeabil-ity, liquid diffusivity—in order tooffer realistic simulations. The resultis output screens that provide snap-shots of conditions relating to tem-perature, water content and relativehumidity. By varying conditions,such as reduced air space or achange of materials or conditions,the user can create an endless situa-tions of “what if’s” in order to see thetypes of results that will occur.

Desjarlais added that there isalso a great availability of tools

from the Department of Energythat can be used to address build-ing envelope issues.

Augenbroe suggested anothermodel in a presentation titledSmart Double Facades, but onewith limited data for existingbuildings. It is based on a perform-ance indicator and information onmold germination characteristicssuch as surface temperature, sur-face relative humidity and expo-sure time from 200 cases. Anotherfactor is mold-risky days based onwhen mold growth would haveoccurred in a troubled area.

The basis for the model is a math-ematical formula, which serves as asimulation tool. From this model,different scenarios can be createdas long as fixed parameters are usedto determine what factors will influ-ence heat, moisture and air flow.

The model now makes it possi-ble to attain a quantified mold riskassessment offering a foundationof performance criteria.

However, Augenbroe cautionedthat the study of mold is extreme-ly case sensitive and must be doneon a case by case basis. Even twosimilar buildings can have verydifferent data, so there is no suchthing as a generic study.

THE FUTUREOF BUILDING SCIENCE

Augenbroe explained that a lot ofwork has been done on moldthrough field investigation andremediation. The problem, he said,is that even after remediation thereis no guarantee against the recur-rence of mold. Currently, there areprescriptive standards and codesbut the “ultimate goal is perform-ance-based standards.”

Desjarlais added thatassessing moisture isno easy task.

While lab tests canprovide a realistic pic-ture, they can be expen-

sive. Another drawback with labtests is what he described as com-parability. Climates vary and oneset of tests can’t adequately defineevery condition.

Thus, it is important that buildingand design professionals focus on pre-venting the problem in the first place.

According to the first day’s clos-ing session, there has been interestin establishing a network for theadvancement of building science,to improve understanding of build-ing science by architects and civilengineers. Bomberg said that hefeels there are many issues to beresolved before formal discussionscan take place—but it is simply amatter of time before a network isestablished. For now, the focus willcontinue on educating the trades-people on the value of controllingheat, air and moisture.

Resources:For more information about the forum,

visit www.nibs.org/betecregis2.html. The WUFI ORNL/IBP model is available

online at www.ornl.gov/btc/moisture.

m

André Desjarlais, Oak Ridge NationalLaboratory discussed tools to predict andresolve moisture and mold problems inbuilding envelopes.

Godfried Augenbroe of the College ofArchitecture, George Institute ofTechnology talked about assessingmold risk.


ENERGY STAR® Program Makes Moisture Control Energy-Efficient

➧By David Shiller, the product manager of ENERGY STAR fordehumidifiers. He can be reached at 202/343-9397 [email protected]. Additional information, including a list ofqualified models, is available at www.energystar.gov/products.

The arsenal of mold and moisture controlmeasures available includes a number of elec-tricity-consuming devices that can consumesubstantial amounts of energy individually

and collectively. In a building battling moisture controland mold problems, the amount of energy used bythese devices can easily exceed the total electric con-sumption for all other appliances. In fact, a single aver-age size dehumidifier can consume more than $150 peryear in electricity. It is no surprise that energy costsare a concern for many mold remediation consultantsand contractors and their clients.

For Terry Brennan, president of CamrodenAssociates and one of the top building scientists in the

country, “low energy use” is at the top of the list ofdesirable qualities for dehumidifiers that he recom-mends to clients. In this spirit, Brennan recommendsmodels that have been ENERGY STAR-qualified.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)established ENERGY STAR as a voluntary labeling programdesigned to help consumers quickly and easily identifyenergy-efficient products, starting with computers andmonitors. These products deliver the same or betterperformance as conventional models while using lessenergy and saving money. They must meet strict ener-gy efficiency guidelines set by EPA and the Departmentof Energy. The program has expanded since 1992 toinclude a wide variety of appliances and products,including those products used to combat mold.

Dehumidifiers: A Market TransformedDehumidifiers help control indoor moisture levels and

reduce the potential for mold growth by removing waterfrom the air. Their operation is generally unnoticeduntil it is time to dump out the water they have col-lected. However, their significant energy usage, andtheir energy-efficiency potential did not escape theEPA’s attention. EPA’s interest in an ENERGY STAR spec-ification for dehumidifiers was based on three factors: • significant per-unit energy consumption;• variation in energy efficiency among product

models; and • potential for more energy-efficient design based

on engineering analysis and test data.The EPA ENERGY STAR program engaged manufac-

turers and retailers in a “market transformation”toward development of more energy-efficient dehu-midifiers. Market transformation is an interventionin the marketplace that leads to an increase in theadoption of an energy-efficient product, service orpractice. Over time, a successful market transfor-mation initiative is expected to raise the averageenergy efficiency of products on the market, result-ing in energy savings and environmental benefits.

ControllingMoisture More

Efficiently

200

150

100

50

0Dehumidifier Appliances

Dishwasher $29

Dehumidifier $177

Refrigerator $42

Clothes Washer $21

Typical Annual Energy Costs for ConventionalAppliances vs. 55 Pint/Day Dehumidifier


With the help of Whirlpool and other partners, EPAestablished criteria for efficient dehumidifiers andlaunched the product category. At the time that EPAfirst considered a specification, a Canadian mandatoryefficiency standard (CAN/CSA-C749-94) was in place.Rather than reinvent the wheel, EPA adopted theframework upon which the Canadian standard wasbased. EPA adopted the Canadian standard’s efficiencymetric, which was simple to understand, relativelyeasy to measure and a direct measure of efficiency.The metric is termed energy factor (EF) and isexpressed in liters per kilowatt-hour (L/kWh). TheCanadian specification of 1.0 L/kWh was establishedas a minimum performance level for dehumidifierssold in Canada. EPA’s more stringent specification forthe voluntary ENERGY STAR program was based on areview of energy performance data collected under theCanadian program. The ENERGY STAR specificationwent into affect on January 1, 2001.

Today’s dehumidifiers use, on average, 13 percentless energy than units sold in 2001, but they canremove the same quantities of water from the air (Seechart above). Market penetration for ENERGY STAR-qualified dehumidifiers has grown rapidly and nowrepresents more than two-thirds of product ship-ments. The million or so dehumidifiers sold in 2004will use about 2 billion fewer kilowatt-hours (kWh) ofelectricity over their lifetimes than they would haveused if they had maintained the energy use of unitssold prior to the EPA effort. Two billion kWh trans-lates to more than $160 million in energy savings forconsumers. Due to this reduced electricity demandfrom power plants—most of which burn fossil fuels—a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of almostthree billion pounds is expected. This is equivalent toremoving 24,000 cars from the road.

Consultants and contractors who have recommend-ed ENERGY STAR dehumidifiers to their clients in thepast few years are part of this revolutionary trend thathas saved money and combated global warming. For

Terry Brennan,the addition of energy-efficient models in the low andmedium capacity ranges was a welcome development.Prior to the EPA effort, the only energy-efficient dehu-midifiers he could recommend to his clients were a fewlarge capacity models.

Ventilation Fans: A Market On The MoveVentilation fans have also gained EPA’s attention.

EPA established ENERGY STAR criteria for bathroom/util-ity and inline fans, as well as kitchen range hoods.Qualified bathroom vent fans with lighting will typical-ly save a home or building 65 percent compared to con-ventional models. In addition to energy efficiency,another criteria is low noise level. This quality is idealfor situations where continuous, 24 hour-a-day ventila-tion is required.

ENERGY STAR: A Good RecommendationTo continue to promote energy savings, when a

market transformation toward ENERGY STAR productssuch as dehumidifiers is achieved, EPA works withmanufacturers and other partners to develop new,more challenging energy-efficiency criteria. CurrentlyEPA is working to finalize a new specification fordehumidifiers that will provide even more energy sav-ings over currently labeled products. Models meetingthese new criteria should be available starting in thesummer of 2006. m

The EPA ENERGY STAR

program is workingtoward a market

transformation withthe development of

more energy-efficientdehumidifiers.

Criteria for ENERGY STAR-Qualified Standard Capacity DehumidifiersProduct Capacity Product Capacity Energy Factor Under

(L/day) (pints/day) Test Conditions (L/kWh)

< 10 < 21 ≥ 1.20

10 < 25 21 < 52 ≥ 1.30

25 - 35 52 - 74 ≥ 1.50

36 - 57 74 - 120 ≥ 2.25

New Private Testing Shows High Mold Counts in New Orleans

According to information fromthe Natural Resources DefenseCouncil (NRDC), air tests taken bythe Council have shown that air-borne mold levels in New Orleanscould pose a serious health risk to

residents and workers returning tothe devastated city. NRDC is a not-for-profit environmental organiza-tion based in New York City.

NRDC collected air samples formold spore analysis in 14 locationsacross the New Orleans area fromOctober 17 to 19. Nine of the loca-

tions had significant flooding. Thespore counts outdoors in most flood-ed neighborhoods tested by NRDC—including New Orleans East, theLower 9th Ward, Chalmette, Uptown,Mid-City and the Garden District—topped out at 77,000 spores percubic meter at one site in Chalmette,and 81,000 spores per cubic meter atanother site in Uptown.

The Council reported that theNational Allergy Bureau of theAmerican Academy of Allergy andImmunology considers any outdoormold spore level of greater than50,000 spores per cubic meter to be“very high.”

“The outdoor mold spore concen-trations could easily trigger seriousallergic or asthmatic reactions insensitive people,” said Dr. GinaSolomon, M.D., who led the NRDCresearch team. “The indoor airquality was even worse, renderingthe homes we tested dangerouslyuninhabitable by any definition.”

According to NDRC, the federalagencies, including the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency,Department of Health and HumanServices and the Centers forDisease Control and Prevention, arenot monitoring mold levels in flood-ed areas, and have not helped resi-dents cope with the mold problem.While there are no U.S. regulatorystandards for levels of mold spores,NRDC maintains that it is the gov-ernment’s responsibility to ensurethe public is protected from thedangerous health risks.

The Council is urging the federalgovernment to offer personal pro-tective equipment—such as respi-rators, nitrile gloves, safety glassesand a Tyvek suit—and mold reme-diation assistance, especially tolow-income and other disenfran-chised communities that otherwisecouldn’t afford to rebuild. m

W e t S c i e n c e


With the goal of distinguishing fact from fiction, health professionalsgathered to discuss the most recent scientific evidence on the healtheffects of mold at the Annual Meeting of the American College of Allergy,Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) in Anaheim, November 4-9, 2005. Oneof the topics discussed was toxic mold syndrome, or inhalational toxicity,which continues to cause public concern despite a lack of scientific evidencethat supports its existence, according to Emil Bardana, Jr., M.D., OregonHealth & Science University in Portland, Ore.

In a study published in September in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma &Immunology, the scientific journal of the ACAAI, investigators at theOregon Health and Science University in a self-funded study conducted aretrospective review of 50 individuals who claimed compensation for toxicmold disease and in every case found alternative medical and/or psychiatricexplanations for the claimed illness.

Investigators found only two of the 50 subjects had evidence of a mold-related allergic disease attributable to their home or workplace. Seventeenindividuals complained of a nonspecific irritant symptoms complex thatcould not be linked to mold exposure.

“Based on our findings, no case definition is possible for so-called ‘toxicmold syndrome,’” said Dr. Bardana, co-author of the report. “Becausemolds are encountered both indoors and outdoors, it is almost impossible todetermine where the sensitivity arose.”


Experts Sort Fact from Fiction on Mold

International experts presented more than 100 scientific sessions on allergic diseases atthe ACAAI Annual Meeting.


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March 12-14, 2006National Green Building Conference Albuquerque Convention Center.Albuquerque, N.M.Hosted by the National Association of Home Builders.Contact: Christopher Hood at 202/266-8684.

March 14-17, 20062006 ASCR Solutions Convention Westin Savannah Harbor Resort. Savannah, Ga.Sponsored by the Association of Specialists inCleaning and Restoration.Contact: ASCR at [email protected] or call 410/729-9900.

April 12-13, 2006An Executive View of Mold & Mold for the Construction Industry Short CoursesGlobal Learning and Conference Center.Atlanta.Sponsored by the Georgia Institute of Technology, Professional Education.Contact: Georgia Institute of Technology at 404/385-3500 or visit www.pe.gatech.edu.

May 4-6, 2006Connections Conference and ExhibitionHilton Clearwater Beach Resort.Clearwater Beach, Fla.Sponsored by Connections Events Inc. Contact: 888/881-1001 or email [email protected].

May 13-18, 2006AIHce 2006McCormick Place.Chicago.Sponsored by the American Industrial Hygiene Association.Contact: Claire Davis at [email protected] or call 703/846-0753.

May 15-20, 2006Affordable Comfort Conference 2006Austin, Texas.Sponsored by Affordable Comfort Inc.Contact: Affordable Comfort at 724/627-5200 or visit www.affordablecomfort.org.

June 25-28, 2006NEHA Annual ConferenceHyatt Regency San Antonio and St. Anthony Wyndam.San Antonio, Texas.Sponsored by the National Environmental Health Association.Contact: Toni Roland at 303/756-9090 or [email protected].

June 8-10, 2006AIA National Convention and Design ExpositionLos Angeles.Sponsored by the Architects Institute of America.Contact: AIA at 202/626-7300.

June 20-23, 2006A&WMA 99th Annual Conference and Exhibition New Orleans.Sponsored by the Air and Waste Management Association.Contact: A&WMA at 412/232-3444.

June 26-29, 2006Ecobuild America 2006Chicago.Sponsored by the Sustainable Buildings Industry Council.Contact: 800/996-3863 or email [email protected].

September 8-10, 2006NAHI Fall Conference 2006Hyatt Regency Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing.Philadelphia.Sponsored by the National Association of Home Inspectors. Contact: NAHI at 215/928-1234. m

Page Company Phone Fax Web Address

11 American Industrial Hygene Association 703/846-0741 703/207-3561 www.aiha.org

6a Anabec Inc. 800/369-8463 716/759-7829 www.anabec.com

5 Autumn River Industries 612/490-5580 763/323-8935 www.autumnriver.biz

9 Carlisle Coatings & Waterproofing Inc. 800/527-7092 972/442-0076 www.carlisle-ccw.com

43 Environmental Education Foundation 480/659-9356 480/659-9456 www.enviro-ed.org

3 Extech Instruments 877/894-7440 781/890-7864 www.extech.com

1 G-P Gypsum Corp. 800/284-5347 404/230-5624 www.gp.com

46 Infared Solutions 800/760-4523 763/551-0038 www.infaredsolutions.com

28 Mortar Net 800/664-6638 219/939-3877 www.mortarnet.com

15 Moisture Detection & Measurement 603/766-0300 603/427-0015 www.moistureDM.com

45 Pureair Control Services, Inc. 727-572-4550 727-572-5859 www.pureaircontrols.com

29 Pro-Lab 800/427-0550 954/332-1004 www.reliablelab.com

C2 Valeron Strength Films 800/825-3766 713/690-2746 www.valeronvortec.com

Advertiser Index

Mold & Moisture Managementm42 | January-February 06

OOur emergency response teams are trained to take on some pretty diverse situations,but mold has proven to be a threat in the daily work of those to whom we look forprotection, according to these articles from the consumer press:

Dry

Ey

e

Mold & Moisture Managementm

Who Ya Gonna Call … Mold Busters?

Mold Found Stored with DNA EvidenceLess than a year after Fort Wayne’s Indiana State Police expanded its

lab to include DNA analysis, it was reported that mold found on storedbiological evidence may have jeopardized at least five cases, according toan article in The Journal Gazette.

Upon further investigation of 20 evidence packages stored in the lab’srefrigerator, it was decided that none of the evidence had been altereddue to the exposure. The refrigerator was scrubbed following the discov-ery and the lab is freezing its evidence now to avoid future problems.

Forensic consultant Ed Blake told the Gazette that the situation calledthe competence of the lab into question. According to Blake, the first ruleof storing biological evidence is to dry it, thereby preventing mold growth.

Mold Disrupts Dispatch CenterMold has infested thecommunications center inthe New London, Conn.,police department, accord-ing to an article in TheDay. Spores were discov-ered in October whileworkers were tearing apartthe center’s walls torebuild it as part of a planned update of the center.Work on the center has stopped, however, and the roomthat houses dispatchers can no longer be entered with-out wearing a respirator, according to the article.

Lt. Chip Segar, president of the police officers’union, told The Day that significant leaks existed fromthe top floor to the basement. According to Lt. Segar,the union had suspected sick building syndrome forsome time.

Segar also said there have been many reports ofallergies and sinus illnesses from dispatchersand officers who work in the room. m

Public Safety Building Not Safe from Mold

According to an October article in Vero Beach,

Fla.’s Press Journal, that county’s public safety offi-

cers were will be working shorter shifts until the

town can replace the mold-infested air-condition-

ing units in the public safety building.

High levels of mold spores were found in the

upstairs barracks, where officers sleep, and in

the kitchen.

The public safety officers, trained in fire rescue,

emergency medical procedures and law enforce-

ment, typically work 24-hour shifts. Shortening the

shifts eliminated the need for officers to sleep

upstairs and be in the kitchen preparing food until

the problem is resolved.

The mold problem was first reported by the

Police Benevolent Association union, which repre-

sents the town’s 22 officers. Two officers filed work-

ers’ compensation claims for respiratory problems.

Following the report, the town council authorized

spending up to $35,000 on a new air-conditioning

system, including ductwork. The current system is

more than 25 years old.

44 | January-February 06

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