Moisture intrusion can be a big problem with any siding. Siding must be sealed at the butt joints and monitored on a yearly basis. Vegetation should be trimmed back away from the structure to insure plants on not wicking water inside of siding.
Water is the enemy of the homeowner. Grading around the house should be sloped so that water goes away from the building. If there is a hill or upward slope, water needs to be directed with a swale or some type of drainage system.
This photo shows an improper use of sealant being used to prevent rain water from entering the exterior wall of the condo. The sealant has not covered the gap completely and water can find its way into the exterior wall. Ideally, a kickout diverter flashing would have been installed to divert water into the gutter.
The article entitled “Basic Waterproofing for Basements” explains proper procedures that will eliminate water intrusion into a basement. It is important that the roof drainage and the site grade around the structure follow the proper guidelines in order to prevent moisture intrusion. Having downspouts extend 4-6 ft away from the foundation and having the finish grade slope away from the building for 10-15’ at a slope of 6": 10’ is required in order to prevent the pooling of water around the structure. Swales or ditches should be created where a foundation wall faces an upward slope on the property.
Good morning, taking the Moisture Intrusion class, have a great day everyone!
Photo shows trap under bathroom sink. Has an S trap recommend replacement with the correct style P trap also notice the size of holes for the pipes entering into the wall. Holes are much too big and need to be closed up with insulation blocking and proper sealant to prevent cold air entering into warm space.
Common moisture related problems include, structural wood decay high indoor humidity resulting in condensation. Metal corrosion and ice dams are also common contributors. Air infiltration is the leading cause of this moisture intrusion. Air infiltration is often unseen therefore can take extensive time to be realized often causing major damages to the home.
The photo is taken on the low slope roof between the two main roofs and handle much water runoff. There are three skylights and two plumbing vents on this roof. While two of the skylights are manufactured, the skylight shown is a home made attempt to allow more light into the area beneath and has extensive caulking all over it. In the room below there is evidence of previous leaking (although dry now). Also in another bathroom skylight there is evidence of previous water damage around the unit. The owners have noted that another surface coating was applied to the roof in the last year. I would recommend having a professional roofer evaluate the surface and all protrusions to determine any areas that may need attention. Water leakage, especially on a roof can be difficult to determine the exact location of entry.
This is a photo of a moisture stain at the eaves. This can be an issue because it indicates that there may be a roof leak, or drip edge flashing may have not been installed properly to prevent this issue.
Moisture can get into a home in a myriad number of ways including a roof or plumbing leak, flooding, or improper flashing around chimneys or other penetrations, to name a few. This is an issue as moisture can cause a number of problems that are detrimental to a home.
Moisture intrusion
Moisture entering a building envelope is a major concern for causing building defects and health issues. It can enter in many ways; leaking or being absorbed through materials it comes in contact with, through heat transfer where a condensation point creates water, and moist air entering the building through openings. Air currents account for the greatest entry of water because of the fast volume that is possible through even small openings.
The building envelope will be an important place to prevent water penetration. The roof system generally and any utility penetrations through it are important to seal and monitor. Generally siding systems, windows and doors have impervious layers as well as moisture barriers and flashings that prevent moisture from entering. Areas around foundations can be sloped away for drainage. Vegetation should be kept away from close proximity of the foundation to prevent water retention seeping down into the foundation. French drains and sump pump systems are other ways to clear water from within the foundation internally. Any organic material should be kept out of any crawl spaces.
Water saturated wood will rot more easily in construction components such as siding and piers and therefore should be held above ground surface at least 6 to 8 inches. This prevents wicking up of water which saturates the wood causing increased rot.
High levels of moisture inside the living envelope can be unhealthy. Mold spores are carried inside in the air and grow in moist areas especially with areas of high condensation.
Plumbing piping, fixtures and appliances can often be a source of water leakage and accumulation and need to be carefully installed and maintained.
In this picture a hole has been drilled through the wall for a television cord and there was no silicone protection applied to repel water from entering the wall or interior. Also a vent from a portable air conditioner is in the window and is not water or air tight as you can see material on one side of the exhaust.
Moisture intrusion can be the cause of building defects, as well as health ailments for the building’s occupants. Inspectors should have at least a basic understanding of how moisture may enter a building, and where problem areas commonly occur and be able to properly report these on an inspection.
Drainage is within the 6" slope if not more. showing proper water run off. The trim on garage opening is making contact to cement. showing signs of rot. should be at least 6" above grade. repair or replace when necessary.
Make the home energy efficient by using newer appliances. Also look at different ways that a home could be heated and cooled. Cooling a home is one of the most energy draining problems most home owners have to deal with.
The gallery picture chimney flashing has taught me the correct way head flashing,step flashing,counter flashing,and apron flashing should be installed to prevent water intrusion.The image also shows the proper depth and way the counter flashing should be grooved into the mortar joints.
The chimney is not flashed properly. The flashing in not grooved into the brick with no step flashing and is only caulked. This needs to be repaired to prevent future leaks… A qualified licensed roofing contractor should inspect further and correct as needed.
This is a picture of the grading around the foundation and basement of a home. The grading is sloped toward the home which will cause water/moisture intrusion and damage. There is probably water damage on the walls and floor inside the basement. Depending on the extent of the damage and the ventilation, there may be biological growth in the basement and/or walls.
I read the article “IR Cameras: Inspecting for Moisture Intrusion”. There are many advantages to using an IR camera during an inspection. They can help locate moisture intrusion without having to directly contact potentially unsanitary areas, examine large areas quickly, and allows for examination of difficult to access areas like tall ceilings.
Moisture intrusion can cause wood decay, mold, structural defects and occupant illness. Moisture can be present in a house by air infiltration, diffusion, leaks, flooding or by occupants normal activities. The roof is the first line of defense followed my the wall coverings. Thorough inspection of these elements is key to home inspection.