Tag Archives: mold growth

LOSE THE LINT: DIRECT YOUR DRYER VENT DUCTING TO THE NEAREST EXIT

During a recent trip to Oak Harbor, I came across an issue I see relatively often: dryer vent ducting discharging into a lint catchment system in the interior of the home. In this case, the ducting deposited lint and moist air straight into the garage.

There are many reasons not to do this (including so your home doesn’t smell like a laundromat). Moisture buildup (which could lead to issues such as mold growth and deterioration) and an increased risk of fire from lint accumulation probably top the list.

In other words, it’s not a good idea.

Making sure you have configured your dryer system correctly is more important than you think, and there is a definite list of “do’s and don’ts” to consider. 

By the way: Did you know the first hand-cranked clothes dryerwas manufactured in 1800? I thought you might find that interesting. I did, at least.

Do you have questions or comments about dryer vent ducting, separating whites and colors or home inspections in general? Go “All” in and tweet us (@AIHomeInspect).

WHAT DO CELL PHONES, FOOTBALL DEFENSES & CRAWL SPACES HAVE IN COMMON?

Something is mesmerizing about watching a crawl space go through an encapsulation process. What do I mean by “encapsulation?” Basically, it means sealing a crawl space so that a house can avoid indoor moisture issues. 

Typically, a heavy-duty polyethylene barrier is added to completely cover the crawl space—usually the floors, and sometimes the foundation walls and even the ceiling.

The process is especially impressive when you start with a dirty, damp area and end with a bright, clean space (like the one featured in the video below).

While I don’t think every house needs or should be entirely encapsulated, I always recommend that homes in our area layer the crawl space ground with a plastic vapor barrier.

This was especially evident during a recent home inspection on Lopez Island, where I noticed apparent mold growth underneath the home in the crawl space at floor joists and pressboard floor sheathing elements. I recommended the installation of a vapor barrier, covering all exposed ground in the crawl space, to help prevent recurrence. 

Oh, and I should probably answer the question posed in the headline. The answer/punchline? They should all have good coverage! My wife is currently shaking her head as I write this. Regardless, feel free to use this material at your next cocktail party. You have my permission.

Do you have questions or comments about home inspections in general? Go “All” in and tweet us (@AIHomeInspect).