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.
Recently, several cases of an insidious new form of thermal bridging have been seen. Aggravating factors have been identified that contributed to the problem, so there are now lessons to be learnt to avoid this on other buildings.
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.
The recent cold and wet winter has left many homeowners wondering if they should install a ventilation system to help reduce condensation and dampness in their homes. As always, it’s a matter of choosing the right system – one that is effective and efficient for your situation.
Taking the presumed warmer, drier air from the roof space in an older era house certainly didn’t have the expected effect for one family. Serious internal moisture problems resulted… and they aren’t alone with this problem.
Although steel framing in domestic construction has only a small market share, there are signs it may be on the increase. Since steel is a good conductor, builders need to be aware of potential pitfalls, such as thermal bridges and condensation.
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.
How airtight is a ceiling? Does it need to be airtight? What if it isn’t? BRANZ has answers after testing the air permeability of different ceiling types.
We’re all familiar with New Zealand’s cold damp houses, but to understand the causes and fix the problems, it helps to know a bit about how water vapour works.