What can result from improperly designed CMU foundation walls?

Improperly designed Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) foundation walls can lead to significant mold and moisture issues. This often occurs because these walls may not adequately manage water drainage or vapor control. For instance, if the CMU walls lack appropriate waterproofing measures or if the drainage around the foundation is insufficient, water can seep into the walls. This trapped moisture creates an environment conducive to mold growth, which can not only damage the structure but also pose health risks to occupants.

In contrast, options related to increased building costs, improved energy efficiency, or faster construction times would not stem from the design flaws of the CMU walls. In fact, improper design is likely to inflate costs due to the need for repairs or additional work to address issues caused by mold and moisture. Similarly, the concept of improved energy efficiency is unrelated to design mistakes, as poor CMU wall design often leads to increased energy loss rather than conservation. And while construction times are generally affected by various factors, improper design typically results in delays rather than accelerations in building speed. Thus, the clear consequence of a poorly designed CMU foundation wall is indeed the risk of mold and moisture problems.