What's your BuildIQ: Mold Prevention Fundamentals - How Water Gets Into a Home

Mold growth has been topping the list of home builders' menaces and customer complaints for some time now. It might seem like no matter what you do, the mold just keeps on growing. While it is frustrating, you do have options.

Like every great force, water intrusion can have devastating side effects. One of the results of poor water management is unwanted mold growth. Going after water intrusion and stopping uncontrollable mold growth before it starts -- can reduce customer dissatisfaction, service and warranty calls -- and insurance costs and liability risks. Mold needs moisture, like water from rain and snow, to cause the headaches felt by builders everywhere. Cutting off moisture can mean cutting down on health hazards, structural rot and poor long-term durability.

Understanding the general principles behind stopping water from getting into your homes is the first step in taking long-term action. Armed with knowledge, you'll be able to evaluate water management risks in the field, spot the construction details with potential problems and make corrections to prevent water intrusion.

You need to be on the lookout for water in the form of rain, snow, ice and groundwater. And you need to understand the elements driving this water into your homes. Good water management strategies both combat and cooperate with physical forces to drain water away from the home. Like they say: Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.

Here are five forces you want to get friendly with:

1. Gravity - Water takes the path of least resistance.
2. Wind - Water needs a ride.
3. Adhesion - Water is sticky.
4. Capillary action - Water's secret weapon.
5. Hydrostatic pressure - Water is powerful and patient.

If you open the door to water intrusion, be prepared to get cozy with the ultimate unwanted houseguest, mold. To keep these guests out for good, go to hz.buildiquniversity.com to enroll in Mold Prevention Fundamentals.