Moisture Management Strategies: The Four Ds
The most important role of the building enclosure is to manage the migration of moisture. We believe when you have the right guidance, you’ll only ever have to do a job once. There are many problems associated with moisture including mold and rot, corrosion and degradation, and leakage and staining. Unfortunately, these problems can be detrimental, as they can affect the durability, appearance, and functioning of the building as well as the health of the building’s occupants. Like any good song, there is a rhyme and reason to moisture management strategies. The primary objective is prevention of problems and these strategies, commonly known as the Four Ds, can help you manage moisture and succeed in your building.
Deflection: Drainage: Drying:
Durability:
Minimize the moisture exposure of materials by deflecting water away from them.
Develop paths to drain away any moisture that does penetrate the assembly.
Ensure means of ventilation and evaporation to remove residual moisture.
Select materials that can withstand exposure to periodic wetting without compromising their performance. Different materials vary in their tolerances for both amount of moisture and length of time they can be wet.
Failure to properly manage moisture can have catastrophic consequences, not only for building occupants and owners but for those involved in the design and construction of the building. The choice of material, arrangement, and proper installation method and detailing is paramount. As it is practically impossible to eliminate moisture sources or the paths and movement forces that act on moisture, installation is critical. Some of the consequences of moisture intrusion include:
• Rot and structural failure • Mold and “sick” buildings • Lawsuits and ruined reputations
• Loss of rental income for owners when commercial structures undergo remediation • Call-backs and wasted time to fix problems
However, these potential consequences are no reason to fret. As long as you implement the basics of moisture management found in this eBook and choose high-performing reliable products, you’ll be well on your way to avoiding problems and protecting your reputation.
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