Module 3: Moisture Management

Question 1

why was there an increase in insulation used in new construction?

Answer 1

higher demands for comfort, reductions in energy use and concerns about climate change

Question 2

explain energy efficient construction in relation to moisture management?

Answer 2

the more energy efficient the building envelope, the higher the risk of moisture related issues that can quickly cause structural damage and health problems for occupants

Question 3

what are the factors that the risk of moisture damage depend on?

Answer 3

climate, interior conditions, choice of materials in each assembly, overall quality of the insulating and air sealing job

Question 4

what are the 3 part to keeping any construction detail or assembly dry?

Answer 4

• get moisture off of it
• get moisture out of it
• get moisture away from it

Question 5

what are the best approaches for preventing foundation moisture?

Answer 5

climate, the style of constructions, and the typical materials and methods used locally

Question 6

what are the four major sources that moisture comes from in walls?

Answer 6

1. bulk water leakage
2. moisture in the assembly materials
3. water vapour from diffusion or air leakage
4. capillary action

Question 7

bulk water leakage through exterior walls is usually a result of improper installation of what?

Answer 7

• siding materials
• poor quality flashing
• weatherstripping or caulking around joints in the building exterior (windows, doors, bottom plates)

Question 8

what is a rainscreen detail?

Answer 8

a narrow gap between the cladding or siding and the next layer of the wall that allows water to flor down the wall.