Research Findings Suggest Actions by Contractors Can Control Moisture

Having identified the potential for $150 billion of building asset value annually at risk for moisture intrusion before 2008, a new survey aims to determine how and who on the building team can protect and prevent moisture damage.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and completed by the National Center for Energy Management and Building Technologies (NCEMBT), the first phase of this study reveals the opportunity and challenges to developing and implementing a moisture management program by contractors. According to information posted on the Chelsea Group Ltd. website (www.chelsea-grp.com/moisture): “The research suggests that contractors, armed with knowledge of how water damage and moisture intrusion occur, and some basic methods and tools for preventing these problems could improve the situation.” For construction and renovation projects, the study suggests that one specialized contractor implement a moisture management program.

Additional research is planned: Questions regarding the details of the offering, associated costs, and quantified benefits have yet to be answered. Feedback from industry experts is also expected as efforts continue.

The NCEMBT is soliciting comments on six points that were raised during the analysis. These issues include establishing the degree of acceptance of a moisture management program among the design/build community and determining the extent of which building owners are completing preventive maintenance and responding to complaints or incidences.

To download the full report, read an executive summary, or lend comments (collected until Jan. 31, 2006) visit (www.chelsea-grp.com/moisture).