.png)
The planning and construction of a new home can be as stressful as it is exhilarating. There are many important details to consider. From start to finish, it can take more than a year to see your plans materialize. Once your home is complete, building inspectors will assess your newly constructed dwelling and certify your home suitable for occupancy.
Since everything in the home is new and installed by industry professionals, most owners of a newly-constructed residence assume their long-awaited home will easily pass that final inspection. More often than you might realize, building inspectors discover mold in newly constructed homes. It's important to be aware of the fact that mold infestation can occur during any phase of the construction process. Since spores are always present, construction projects allow ample opportunity for mold to thrive.
Reducing the Risk of Mold in Newly Constructed Homes
One of the main causes of mold growth during construction is the use of damp construction materials. Mold starts to grow within 24-48 hours of contact with a damp surface, including the wood and drywall your contractors are using to build your home. Even slight dampness can be problematic. That's one of the main reasons it's essential to discuss mold growth with your contractor. Preventing mold growth during construction is not impossible. Most often, it's a relatively simple matter of keeping the materials dry. If a construction project needs to be temporarily shut down due to weather conditions, it's essential that someone is taking responsibility to ensure materials are dry, sealed, and protected during downtime. Consider asking your contractor about how their company addresses the following construction site mold
Drying Out Building Materials Before Use
Subfloors, floors, and framing can hold a significant amount of moisture. Giving building materials a significant amount of time to dry before continuing construction can help reduce the risk of mold accumulation. Workers should also be watching for signs of mold contamination before using building materials on the premises.
The Processes of Drying In
The term "drying in" refers to the process of sealing and protecting your home from the outside in. The drying in process includes the installation of a water-tight exterior siding, water-tight roofing materials, and sealing around windows and doors. Insulation and drywall should be hung after the drying in process is complete.
Controlling Interior Humidity
While under construction, a home's indoor humidity levels continue to rise. Humidity is a significant source of mold infestation, even when all materials are handled impeccably. The strategic installation of industrial dehumidifiers reduce humidity levels during construction and should be run continuously to minimize the risk of mold growth. Relative humidity should be kept below 60 percent.