New Network in the Works to Help Builders Manage Moisture

The USDA Forest Service Products Laboratory and APA – The Engineered Wood Association have formed Residential Moisture Management Network, an alliance of industries and related government agencies with the goal of providing clear, consistent moisture management recommendations based on the most current practices and research that leads to healthy, durable homes.

According to APA Marketing Vice President Dennis Hardman, the network was established to facilitate cooperation among building product industries to help solve the growing problems associated with moisture in residential construction.

The first major task is already under way: to identify and index what each industry and government agency is doing in the way of moisture management research, education and communication programs. Once compiled, an information clearinghouse will be established on the Web.

The single largest benefit of the network will come from information-sharing among groups whose products are used extensively in home construction and who have years of experience in education related to building techniques. For example, APA and the Institute for Business and Home Safety are already combining forces on builder seminars.

Formation of the RMMN was initiated with support from the Hud Healthy Homes Program and FPL’s Advanced Housing Research Center. Each participating industry is represented by a single trade association. Other industries represented include gypsum, windows and doors, manufactured housing, home building, HVAC, home inspections, plumbing and others. Canadian organizations also will be represented.