Feb. 24, 2015: How to Ensure Air Barriers Prevent Building Mold, Moisture Problems
A Well-Constructed Building with a Good Air Barrier Helps the HVAC System Pressurize the Building
ORLANDO, Fla. — After seeing numerous examples of building problems due to air barrier defects, Liberty Building Forensics Group® (LBFG) is warning that air barrier goals set by architects aren’t always achievable by contractors and can even lead to failure.
Building moisture that leads to water damage and mold is supposed to be kept out by air barriers. However, accurate knowledge of how they function and how they can be built varies widely in the industry, noted LBFG. In addition, architects often find it difficult to translate air barrier performance criteria into concrete design details, while contractors find it even more challenging to translate them into the construction itself.