What is one basic strategy for controlling exterior moisture?

One effective strategy for controlling exterior moisture is to install rain gutters and downspouts. This approach plays a crucial role in managing rainwater runoff by directing it away from the building's foundation and preventing water from pooling around the structure. When gutters are present, they collect rainwater from the roof, allowing it to flow through the downspouts and safely away from the building. This helps minimize the risk of water infiltration in basements or crawlspaces, which can lead to moisture-related issues such as mold growth, structural damage, and deterioration of building materials.

The other approaches, while they address moisture from different angles, do not provide the same level of control over exterior moisture as effective drainage systems do. For example, interior vapor barriers focus on controlling humidity levels within a building but do not mitigate rainwater exposure. Weatherproof paint can help protect surfaces from moisture but does not actively manage water runoff. Sealing window frames can prevent leaks from outside moisture, yet it is only part of a broader moisture management strategy and does not address the flow of water away from the structure itself. Thus, installing rain gutters and downspouts is a foundational method for managing exterior moisture effectively.