Decay Fungus-Moisture Control
- Moisture can be a problem in any home, even yours.
- Johnson Pest Control’s 4-step process to fungus and moisture control.
- Fungus can only grow where moisture contents are high enough to support the environment for life and growth.
Step 1
Johnson Pest Control will start by taking moisture readings in all wood members subject to attack.
It is very important to separate mold and mildew from decay fungus. Mold and mildew require only 16% to 18% moisture to live. Even though mold and mildew do not structurally damage wood, they will cause wood members to become more absorbent, which can allow moisture levels to reach critical levels of 26% to 28% or higher. Once these levels occur, decay fungus can set in.- Normal: 10-18%
- Mold or Mildew: over 20%
- Wood Decay: 28%
Step 2
Foundation ventilation can be critical in limiting the amount of moisture accumulating in your crawlspace. Johnson Pest Control can determine the need to increase your foundation ventilation. It is estimated that the soil of a crawlspace 30′x60′ can release nearly 40 gallons of water vapor per day.
- Automatic vents by Temp-Vent Corp. provide foundation vents to take advantage of natural air movement or can provide forced air ventilation.
Step 3
Moisture Barriers are intended to prevent the moisture vapor entering crawlspaces area. The barrier is usually compromised of sheets of 6 millimeter polyethylene (plastic). The sheets are laid in rows over the soil. The edges of the sheets are overlapped and tapped to form a continuous barrier that will trap the rising moisture. In most locations, the barrier is placed only over the soil and secured with weights. In some regions, the barrier is continuous over the foundation wall and secured to the sill plate.
- Effectively decreases water vapor build up.
- This vapor barrier is carefully installed over 75 – 80% of surface area in your crawlspace to prevent water vapor build up.
Step 4
Johnson Pest Control Borate Solutions
Kills fungus on contact- Helps prevent future fungus growth should moisture levels fluctuate.
