Combating internal moisture
Newer homes may be less draughty but concern is growing that they are accumulating too much internal moisture. Ventilation is key, and BRANZ is researching how to keep homes aired, warm and healthy.
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Newer homes may be less draughty but concern is growing that they are accumulating too much internal moisture. Ventilation is key, and BRANZ is researching how to keep homes aired, warm and healthy.
BRANZ building physicists recently investigated roof cavity ventilation in a high-altitude holiday home after the owner found condensation problems, including ice forming in the roof cavity.
A BRANZ project measuring moisture in a school building roof cavity has helped refine the WUFI numerical simulation tool and identify shortfalls in knowledge. This will help designers create more realistic models and, ultimately, better buildings.
Recent BRANZ research has confirmed how moisture gets into roof spaces and highlighted the critical role ventilation has in removing it.
Heating costs could be cut if we do as Americans and Europeans do and add perimeter edge insulation to heated concrete floor slabs.
In this latest look at BRANZ’s vapour control in walls project, we outline the benefits of WUFI, a sophisticated computer modelling software that calculates heat and moisture movement in building components.
BRANZ is defining the condensation limit for typical New Zealand walls to clear up confusion about the role of vapour barriers and vapour retarders.
Modern building practices often result in more airtight dwellings. BRANZ looked at two new builds with internal moisture problems and found issues could have been avoided with efficient ventilation.
Subfloor performance plays a big part in the comfort and health of our homes. BRANZ is modelling appropriate levels of subfloor ventilation to understand what makes a healthy building.
WUFI Development, a new Building Research Levy-funded project at BRANZ, aims to further enhance the heat and moisture tool’s usefulness for local users.