Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 12/15/2009

Question
I purchased a block house in Alabama and have several questions. My first question has to do with condensation I am getting from the block walls and the floor. All my walls and ceilings are exposed except for furring strips. Second, I have furred out the block walls, would it be better to use a flex conduit and run it down the stripping to a outlet and not to rerun through the block.

Answer
Hi Barry, most condensation problems are caused by improper sealing of the exterior walls and lack of proper vapor barrier underneath the concrete slab.  There is a product you can apply to the masonry and concrete on the interior called Dry-vit..you can get it at Home Depot stores.  As to your electrical, you can use flex conduit but your boxes will have to be recessed in the block unless you are using 2x2 or 2x4 furring..then you can use a shallow box.  I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com