Energy Savings Plus Health | INDOOR AIR QUALITY GUIDELINES FOR MULTIFAMILY BUILDING UPGRADES 19
PRIORITY ISSUE 1.0 MOISTURE CONTROL AND MOLD (continued)
ASSESSMENT
PROTOCOLS (AP)
MINIMUM ACTIONS (MA)
EXPANDED
ACTIONS (EA)
AP 1.4 Identify
Moisture Problems
That May Prevent
Other Building
Upgrades
If there are
significant
moisture problems
that cannot be
addressed, do not
install building
upgrades that
will reduce the
building's air
infiltration rate.
Instances where this
may be the case
include buildings
that have significant
condensation
or humidity
problems, such as
condensation on
multiple windows,
condensation in
attics, or significant
moisture or mold
problems that are
beyond the scope of
the remedies under
Minimum Actions.
• Install dehumidifiers in humid climates to avoid moisture problems if
individual air conditioning systems serving each dwelling unit cannot
effectively control relative humidity below 60% under partial cooling load
conditions.
• Remove unvented combustion space heaters.
MA 1.8 Use Nonporous Materials in Moisture Prone Areas
Use moisture-resistant materials in areas likely to become wetted frequently. If
possible, use seamless and slip-resistant materials.
Note:
Floor-covering manufacturers specify the maximum water vapor emission rate
of concrete over which coverings such as tile and carpet can be installed.
Installing a covering on concrete that exceeds the maximum emission rate may
cause the covering to fail, promote mold growth, and void the manufacturer's
warranty. It is recommended that the water vapor emission rate of a floor be
measured before coverings are installed (even when the installation occurs long
after the building was constructed).
MA 1.9 Control Moisture During Roofing Modifications
Take precautions to control moisture during roofing modifications. For example:
• Protect open roof areas from rain during construction.
• Design and construct roofing systems and flashing details to ensure proper
moisture barriers.
• Repair roof leaks before air sealing or insulating the attic.
MA 1.10 Protect On-Site Materials From Moisture
Protect materials on-site from moisture damage. Do not install materials that
show visible signs of biological growth resulting from the presence of moisture.
Store and install all building products, systems and components in strict
accordance with the manufacturers' printed instructions.
References for Priority Issue 1.0 Moisture Control and Mold:
ACCA: Manual J Residential Load Calculation
ACCA: Manual N Commercial Load Calculation
ACCA: Manual S Residential Equipment Selection
ASHRAE/ACCA Standard 183-2007 (RA 2014)
ASHRAE: Load Calculation Applications Manual
ASHRAE: ASHRAE Handbook – Fundamentals
ASHRAE: ASHRAE Handbook – HVAC Systems and Equipment
CDC-NIOSH: Dampness and Mold Assessment Tool
DOE: Standard Work Specifications for Multi-Family Home Energy Upgrades
EPA: Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance
EPA: Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings
IICRC: S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation
International Code Council: International Building Code, 2012 Edition, Chapter 12 Sections 1203.2 and 1203.3
