Choose a Certified Moisture Smart® Builder
A Confident Choice

Are you a Moisture Smart® Homebuyer?

Our homes have changed

Increased energy efficiency, changes in building products and new construction methods have made our homes more airtight. This “tightness” has changed the way our homes react to moisture.

Our homebuyers have changed

Today, prospective Homebuyers are well-informed, comparative shoppers. Homebuyers want a demonstrated assurance that their Builder is committed to resolving moisture issues - before they become moisture problems.

Our Builders have changed

Your Moisture Smart® Builder demonstrates a commitment at each stage of construction. Each Moisture Smart® Builder has a Moisture Control Technician (MCT) on staff to consistently apply proven moisture management practices.

Only qualifying Builder Members with The Alberta New Home Warranty Program are designated as Moisture Smart® Builders.

Yes! We're building with a Moisture Smart® Builder.

Our approach to moisture management has changed.

In older homes air-tightness was not a priority issue. The role of polyethylene vapour barriers only gained common acceptance in the mid 1980's. In many older homes drafty windows, doors, walls and ceilings literally carried away excessive moisture - along with the heat and comfort. Today's Homebuyers expect that their new home will be both energy efficient and comfortable.

While we cannot change the laws of nature, we can learn how to manage moisture and avoid the consequences of unwanted moisture. Moisture Control Technicians are trained in the science of moisture movement that understanding, combined with proven, specific details provide an assurance that only an Alberta New Home Warranty Program - Moisture Smart® Builder can provide.

Homebuilders demonstrate their commitment in people and actions to become Moisture Smart® Builders:

To qualify as Moisture Smart® Builders:

• Builders must have a Moisture Control Technician on their staff.

• Builders must commit to the Moisture Smart® Code of Practice that proactively addresses moisture related issues in new home construction.

• Only Builder Members with The Alberta New Home Warranty Program can become Moisture Smart® Builders.

We developed a smart navigation course with SAIT.

The course is called the “Moisture Control Technician Certificate'. The course is based on industry research and proven solutions for Alberta 's climate. Featuring the expertise of the Central Housing and Mortgage Corporation, The Canadian Wood Council and building scientist Joseph Lstibarek, Ph.D, PEng., the course materials cover each stage of your home from footings to eavestroughs; inside and outside. Moisture Smart® Builders are confident because they understand the science behind moisture movement. They approach moisture issues in a methodical manner to manage the mechanical, chemical and biological processes that can degrade building components.

Moisture Control Technicians point Builders in the direction of better moisture control practices.

As a condition of membership with The Alberta New Home Warranty Program, qualifying Moisture Smart® Builder Members must have at least one Moisture Control Technician on staff. These technicians are trained in the science of moisture movement. Site visits to construction sites reinforce the application and practicality of construction details covered in the course. Moisture Smart® Builders are committed to achieving consistent results in their moisture prevention construction practices.

We mapped out a system of better practices to address moisture related issues in the homebuilding industry.

The Moisture Control Technician Course generates graduates that look beyond the conventional way of building a home. Many construction details are routine - and work just fine. However, we have identified key, specific areas of new home construction that when checked, provide added assurance against water intrusion. MCTs look beyond, “how they have always done it” and now question how details work. MCTs know that attention to detail is important. Moisture Smart® Builders have procedures in place to consistently address moisture related issues.

Homebuyers can chart their course with a Moisture Smart® Builder when they research who will build their new home.

You probably have a good idea of the type of new home you would like and what features will make it comfortable. Perhaps you have even selected the community where you would like to live. These are major decisions involving the greatest investment that most of us will ever make.

How can a homebuyer know that a Builder has the technical competency, the discipline and the commitment to address moisture issues proactively?

Homebuyers should look for the Moisture Smart® logo and the Moisture Smart® recognition plaques displayed by the Builder. The commitment to moisture prevention practices comes from the top of their corporation.

Many of our Moisture Smart® Builders have infused that commitment throughout their organization by making the MCT course mandatory training for superintendents, site supervisors and managers. These premier builders see that being Moisture Smart® is simply part of being best in class.

Moisture Smart® is a voyage and Homebuyers are aboard.

Moisture Smart® detailing happens at each stage of construction. It is something that is built into your home. The last stage, where you take possession of your new home, is critically important.

Your Moisture Smart® Builder will talk to you about surface water management, lot grades and drainage features on your property. They will talk to you about maintenance issues and sources of moisture from within your home that you may not be aware of.

Ask your contractor: “Are you a Moisture Smart® Builder?”

Unlike other builders, our Builder Members can demonstrate their commitment. They have invested in training, they have a MCT on staff, they have committed to the Moisture Code of Practice, they have confidence and discipline, and they are affiliated with The Alberta New Home Warranty Program. The best warranty is one you will never use.

Clearly, the right thing to do.

A Knowledgeable Moisture Smart® Builder is your best choice.

The MCT course is a requirement for membership with The Alberta New Home Warranty Program.

The course works through 8 essential modules:

1. Course Introduction

2. Why Moisture Control is Important

3. Building Science: Controlling Moisture Entry

4. Building Science: Controlling Moisture Accumulation and Removal

5. Design and Construction Practices to Control Moisture in Foundations

6. Design and Construction Practices to Control Moisture in Walls

7. Design and Construction Practices to Control Moisture in Roofs

8. Design and Construction Practices for Lot Drainages

Each of the above modules concludes with a test. The course ends with a two-day site visit to reinforce the course material, a final review, and a final exam.

MCT graduates receive a certificate and are capable of designing, diagnosing and evaluating a broad range of moisture control issues and concerns.

For a list of certified Moisture Smart® Builders please click on the link below.

If you have any questions please call us toll free at:

1.800.352.8240 or email marketing@anhwp.com