Solar fan reduced roof moisture
BRANZ went into the field to solve the problem of a failed roof cavity in a new build in Tauranga. Because of the parapet design, a novel approach was taken that used a solar fan to ventilate the cavity.
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BRANZ went into the field to solve the problem of a failed roof cavity in a new build in Tauranga. Because of the parapet design, a novel approach was taken that used a solar fan to ventilate the cavity.
Ventilation of cold roof designs in New Zealand doesn’t always go smoothly. Here, BRANZ physicists hand over to a couple of professional builders who have long been at the coalface dealing with roof moisture issues on their projects.
BRANZ was called into a Dunedin school where too much ventilation caused excessive condensation in a large roof space. Understanding why this happened points to warm roofs being better in some locations.
BRANZ research has provided reassuring results for those wanting to add passive ventilation in roof cavities to counter condensation. Corrosion of metal fixings inside the roof space remains low, even in extreme marine environments.
BRANZ physicists have developed a useful calculation for designers to work out the minimum number and area of vents required in roof spaces.
Twenty years ago, roofs didn’t need to be specifically ventilated. Today, things are different. That’s because 21st century homes are more airtight, and if they aren’t aired, condensation may form.
For most skillion roofs the amount of air movement in the roof cavity, although limited, is sufficient to remove small amounts of vapour. The trick is to keep those amounts of water vapour small.
In response to industry questions, BRANZ recently launched a research project into corrosion rates in vented roof spaces. Two roof spaces have been built in an unforgiving coastal environment and will be monitored.