Section 05 // Hidden Moisture

Where Water Hides

The visible water is rarely the whole problem. Building layers can hold moisture where normal evaporation cannot reach it.

Built Ox
Moisture Entrapment Reference
Pg. 151
Diagram showing moisture behind baseboard, in drywall, under the sill plate, and in carpet and pad.
Diagram showing moisture locked in concrete beneath a floating floor and visqueen barrier.
Diagram showing moisture in subfloor below hardwood flooring and humidity swelling plank edges.
Diagram showing moisture behind a shower tile surround where no water barrier is present.

Technical Advisory

Barriers can become traps.

Moisture barriers prevent trapped water from drying naturally. Water trapped in these places can start supporting mold growth in 24-48 hours. Drying is not complete until the hidden layers are measured, opened when needed, and stable.