Timber Framers Guild Forums General General Forum Questions Mold, Timberframes, SIPS, and ICFs?

I'm wondering what experiences people have had regarding controlling mold in houses that are timberframed. I realize that in most cases mold issues aren't directly related to the timberframe, but would be primarily caused by poor vapor barrior, inadequate ventilation, or leaks. But what about the technologies that usually go along with timberframes, such as SIPs, or ICFs or straw bale? Is a timberframe with SIPs or ICFs better than one with 2x4 infill? What techniques and strategies do most people try when designing a home to be as mold free as possible?

I know that mold issues are becoming a hot topic in the real estate/construction biz these days. What are the opinions of the people here on the forum?

Thanks for your replies,

Chip

I think the short answer is keep the water out, and provide adequate ventilation.

I can share my two experiences with mildew. I was building my first little house and I had mildew grow on my untreated ceiling joists. Another summer house I worked on had mildew develop in the springtime after being unheated one winter. Both cases were related to condensation on the cold building surfaces during sudden warm, humid weather. So, I would say to add heat to the ventilation and water penatration equation.

Just how many bad molds are there?