(NC)—Did you know that 20% of North Americans suffer from some form of respiratory problem? The onslaught of new allergy drugs on the market seems to support that. And worse, the old "sick building syndrome" is right at home in our own domains. The main culprits according to experts are moisture, poor ventilation and building methods and materials that provide a food source and opportunity for mold growth.

In home construction, a relatively new building system is eliminating the breeding ground for black mold and mildew species. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are part of a concrete construction system in which concrete is poured into steel-reinforced expanded polystyrene forms. The result is thick concrete walls with insulation and construction layers built right in. Unlike 2X6 wood-framed homes, there are no cavities or gaps where molds can proliferate, feeding on cellulose and paper-backed building materials.

Shell Busey, who hosts TV and radio programs that provide home solutions, said one of the leading ICF systems that battles the mold and mildew problem is the Arxx High Performance Wallsystem. "When used in concert with properly designed HVAC systems, the Arxx walls keep out allergens, eliminate mold growth and generally result in improved indoor air quality," he said. It is also easier to control temperature and humidity with the Arxx airtight construction, which is another important step against mold growth.

One of the most vulnerable points of entry for moisture is the foundation. On the moisture battlefront, Arxx and Cosella-Dörken Products Inc. joined forces to develop Maxx Foundation Wrap, a clear wrap that enables precise anchoring of the membrane to the concrete forms. The technology features a tough, durable plastic membrane with unique "dimples" that serves as an air gap between foundation and surrounding soil. The dimples provide a downward drainage path for moisture and serve as buffers when the foundation expands and contracts during freeze/thaw cycles.

No matter what building method is chosen, Busey recommends checking into some of the new Heat Recovery Ventilation systems (HRVs). The best quality HRV system should help control moisture and humidity. It should not only remove stale air, but also bring in fresh, filtered air on a continuous basis.

For more information about mold prevention, visit the Environmental Protection Agency website at http://www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/moldresources.html . To learn about Arxx ICF concrete walls, visit their website at www.arxxbuild.com  or call 1-800-293-3210. You can also find additional information on Maxx Foundation Wrap at www.deltams.com . For HRV information, contact Air Solutions Inc., Cambridge ON at email airsolutions@msn.com  or visit the American Society of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) at www.ashrae.org .

- News Canada

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