from Joan in Brookfield, Wisconsin:
#313
I am having a problem keeping paint on the East side of my home. Moisture keeps coming through the boards and causes paint to peel. I have ruled out roof, chimney and gutter problems. Someone suggested that improper venting might be causing this issue. Is this plausible and would an energy audit determine this?
An energy evaluation can definitely help.
It is most likely that moisture in vapor form (invisible to the human eye) is migrating from an area of high concentration (bathrooms and kitchens are most likely suspects) through the exterior wall assembly and becomes liquid water when it reaches the dew point temperature in the wood siding in its attempt to seek a lower concentration. Certainly, an energy evaluation could determine it for sure. More importantly, that seemingly localized paint “blow-off” might also be an indication of other moisture-related problems that are lurking elsewhere, but not yet visible. That possibility could be another important reason to consider a professional energy evaluation that includes performance testing and a detailed report that can serve as a “roadmap” to help solve any discovered problems. You can locate a partnering consultant in your area on our Web site or call 800.762.7077.