GreenPointers: Moisture Control

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 23:00:00 GMT

January 2013

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NEWS

Studies on the Value of Green Labels

From California to Singapore, these studies provide statistical evidence that green labels on homes provide a market premium compared to comparable homes without labels.

Read the studies

Dawn of the LED

Finally, an energy-efficient replacement for standard incandescent bulbs that people actually like! LED's are steadily dropping in price and sales grew faster than those of any other lighting technology last year, according to retailers and analysts.

Read More

Act Now: Only 3 Days Left Before the
Green Home Label Rebates End

Los Angeles County has set an end date of February 1, 2013 at 11:59 p.m. for the Green Label Program. If you've been thinking about working with a contractor to make green upgrades and get a Green Label for your home, applications need to be submitted by this deadline.

See how you can upgrade your home and take advantage of these attractive rebates before the program ends.

New Expanded Rebates for Energy Upgrade California in
Los Angeles County

Energy Upgrade California in Los Angeles County has just made it easier for you to make home improvements that can save energy and make your home more comfortable. You can now receive rebates of up to $4500 for upgrading your home. Getting an Advanced Upgrade Package also helps you earn 20 of the 25 minimum points required for the Green Point Rated label.

Find out how much you can save today!

Want to Get Rated?

A remodel can be a daunting process, especially if you want to make sure it's done in an environmentally friendly way. GreenPoint Rated provides you with resources and professionals that can help you keep track of all the details so that you can simply enjoy your healthy, green home.

Learn more.

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GreenPointers: Moisture Control

Our series of GreenPointers provides helpful tips for a healthier, greener home in a variety of topics. Today's topic is Moisture Control.

Damage to homes from moisture infiltration gives homeowners endless headaches. It can also wind up requiring extensive and expensive repairs. What's more, moisture penetration can create conditions for excessive mold growth, which can wind up causing health problems for the residents.


	RETROFIT CRAWL SPACES
	Crawl spaces are common underneath California homes. Unfortunately, most crawl spaces are underventilated and are often the source of moisture problems in the home. Retrofitting crawl spaces can help reduce these problems. Control ground moisture by covering the entire crawl space floor with a durable vapor barrier (plastic sheeting that is at least 6 mils thick). The vapor barrier can be installed by a building professional or a handy homeowner. Overlap the sheets, pin them to the ground, seal the seams with tape and then apply mastic over the tape. Carry the vapor barrier up the foundation wall as far as possible, preferably above the level of the exterior soil. Prior to installing the vapor barrier, consider installing a French Drain System outside the foundation wall and in the crawl space to divert bulk water. Consult a moisture control expert for your specific situation. If appropriate, consider going a step further by completely sealing and conditioning the crawl space. This involves insulating the crawl space walls, closing the vents, and bringing into the crawl space a small amount of conditioned air from the home's heating and cooling system. Consult with your local building department and follow best building science practices.
	INSTALL PROPER FLASHING
	Flashing is a thin layer of impervious material installed underneath exterior siding and roofing materials to prevent moisture from traveling through building joints. Most major building failures and construction defect lawsuits are related to water intrusion into the building's walls, ceilings and floors due to incorrectly installed or missing flashing. Water intrusion can lead to rot, mold and material damage, and may eventually result in structural problems for the building and health problems for the residents. Most of these problems can be avoided by taking the appropriate measures during design and construction. Properly flash all roofs, windows, doors, utility penetrations, deck connections to the structure, and any other joints where water could enter the home. Water should follow a natural drainage path that drains away from building elements through overhangs, downspouts and sloped yards. Building plans should include a wide array of detail drawings that show proper shingle-like flashing of all penetrations and joints such as windows, doors, siding, roofing, roof valleys, decks, sill plates, railings, balconies, chimneys, pipes, vents and utility penetrations.
	CONTROL BATHROOMS AND KITCHEN MOISTURE
	Our know-how features on Siding and Decking and Insulation and Weatherization have more strategies for keeping moisture out of your home.
	GET HELP
	Home performance contractors can run diagnostic tests that search for air leaks and moisture problems, and gauge the home's overall energy efficiency. This process can help you identify opportunities for improving comfort, reducing energy bills, and creating a healthier home. To learn more, read our know-how feature on Building Performance. To find contractors who perform these services, go to www.energyupgradeca.org.

Read more tips on sustainable moisture control.

Learn more about the Green Label Rebate Program and find out how you can qualify for a $2,000 rebate to get a green label for your home today!

Jan 30, 2013 3:00 PM

Build It Green - Articles

GreenPointers: Moisture Control