One of the biggest causes of damage is water leakage at doors and windows. Some ways to prevent this include:

• Choosing the right window for the climate, and selecting insulated windows to prevent condensation.
• Using flexible, rubberized self-adhesive flashing.
• Applying high-grade, flexible sealant at corners of aluminum window frame assemblies.
• Installing window and door flashing correctly, away from and over joints. If this is not done right, flashing can actually direct water into the walls.
• Placing and properly lapping air infiltration barriers before new windows, exterior doors, and trim are installed. This ensures that the vertical joints between the exterior window casing (or trim) and the sheathing are sealed. Otherwise, moisture may be driven into the sheathing.
• Painting the top and bottom surfaces of doors, as well as finishing the other four sides.
• Making sure the water seal is not broken after painting when workers clean up with a razor-type scraper.
• Using the right finish for the situation. For example, a clear finish will not stand up well to extended weather exposure.

Michael Pugliese is a mold remediation expert and author of RSMeans' The Homeowner's Guide to Mold. He was recently interviewed for a New York Times Member Comments

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