Return to:
Construction

© Buildwise, LLC

Publication Review

Title: Guidelines for Design and Construction of New Homes with Below-Grade Under-Floor Spaces
Author: Moisture Management Task Force, 2003
File: Free Guide, PDF 472 KB, 23 pages
Audience: Written for builders, designers. But good for homeowners with some prior knowledge of construction.

Review
Guidelines offering building professionals in design and construction of new homes alternative methods to better manage moisture in and around below-grade under-floor spaces to reduce the potential for mold growth.

Issues covered include:

• Introduction - why the guidelines and who created them
• Glossary - terms used in the guidelines
• Surface Drainage - grading plan, underdrain systems, lot specific drainage plans
• House Design and Construction - foundation perimeter drains, excavation and backfill, wetting of soils below basement floor during construction, clearance below floor systems and plumbing, ground preparation and cover for below-grade under-floor spaces, wetting of construction materials during construction, downspout termination, landscaping, insulation, ventilation, corrosion, flashing, dryer vents, water heaters & humidifiers, negative pressure
• Homeowner and Maintenance Issues - excessive irrigation, gutters and downspouts, landscaping, mechanical equipment, vapor retarders, basement finish

Detail drawing include:

• foundation section showing water management strategies
• diagram of duct in main floor framing system with clearances and issues identified

Related Texts

Related Links