Good Measurement Practice = Good Quality Coating Results

Humidity may play an important role in the quality, adherence and performance of your particular coating application.  If that is the case, then a good and proper humidity measurement process is important in ensuring the desired or specified coating quality.

Vaisala recommends these 7 Points of Good Measurement Practice for Humidity:

1. Choose the correct instrument; consult with your vendor’s experts about the correct instrument for your particular application and conditions.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions;  read the manual and follow the instructions.
3. Ensure a Proper Calibration; check for evidence of the calibration, periodicity, traceability and documented uncertainties.
4. Keep good and thorough records; maintain a historical record of calibrations, adjustments, repairs, etc.
5. Spot-check performance: check the instrument on a regular basis in between the regular calibration interval.
6. Be knowledgeable about the parameter you are measuring; understand what may or may not affect the measurement.
7. Be aware of conditions not intrinsic to the environment that could affect the measurement.

For a thorough discussion about the 7 Points, you can access the Vaisala Humidity 101 Webinar recording and slides by clicking here and completing a short form.

Waterproofing

If you’re building new or remodeling, one of the objects, in terms of waterproofing and mold-prevention, is to have a low permeability—or minimal chance of unwanted moisture entering the home. Here are some tips.

Foundations, Basements, & Crawlspaces

• For a new structure or an addition, select a lot with a high enough water table and away from underground springs. Determine drainage with a percolation test, normally required to obtain a building permit. The slope of the land is a key factor (to avoid water running toward the house).
• Waterproof and seal foundation walls per building code requirements, and insulate them to minimize condensation caused by the temperature difference between the earth and the home’s interior. A concrete sealer can also help prevent moisture from seeping into a basement or crawlspace.

Being open to the outdoors, crawlspaces tend to be damp—so they’re a challenge in terms of keeping mold out. If it does become established there, mold can migrate through any openings in the floor to the house above. (In fact, some mold specialists recommend not having ventilated crawlspaces at all in regions with high humidity.) Nevertheless, there are some preventive measures you can take:

• Use a dehumidifier and mildewcides.
• Install a heavy-duty plastic vapor barrier (8 mil or thicker) on the ground.
• Regularly inspect for—and clean up—mold.

For unfinished basement areas, first make sure the dirt is absolutely dry. Then used a heavy-duty plastic vapor barrier, and make sure there are no holes in it. (Don’t use regular plastic sheeting, which is more likely to be damaged during installation or over time.) A concrete floor is a better solution, and should also have a vapor barrier underneath. Waterproofing compound can be mixed into the concrete to make the floor more resistant to water intrusion.