Fire Pro Shop launches initiative to address moisture-related mold risks in construction
Fire Pro Shop, Inc. has launched the American Lumber Defender campaign to mitigate moisture accumulation in wood framing, focusing on protecting wall plates from mold during construction.
San Diego-based Fire Pro Shop, Inc. has initiated the American Lumber Defender campaign, aiming to standardize proactive moisture management in the construction industry. The program centers on the application of Snap-Plate Mold Defender, a treatment intended to prevent water from being trapped beneath wall bottom plates, which the company identifies as a frequent but overlooked source of construction defects.
Framing lumber and wood-based sheathing are commonly exposed to environmental moisture during the building process. By addressing these vulnerabilities before structures are enclosed, the company aims to reduce the likelihood of long-term mold issues and the associated legal and repair costs for builders and framing contractors.
Company founder Steve Conboy brings experience from a career in framing and building technology to this effort. Having served as an expert in construction litigation, Conboy states that current industry practices require a more aggressive approach to material protection during the framing stage.
Fire Pro Shop is calling on lumberyards, general contractors, and prefabrication facilities to participate in the initiative by adopting standardized moisture-management protocols. The campaign focuses on protecting materials from the initial stages of construction to avoid structural compromises.