The construction and performance of a dynamic wall house are described. It is suggested that such houses function much like the traditional houses with leaky walls and active chimneys. Only here ventilation is controlled while a significant part of the energy required to heat the ventilation be lost. A model is proposed to explain how much walls function at relatively low ventilation rates. The approach promises to improve indoor air quality and thermal envelope performance at reduced construction and energy costs.
One of a series of articles focussing on problem areas in buildings. 1) Examines condensation risks in buildings. Treats condensation processes, water vapour input and movement, conditions for surface and interstitial condensation in walls and roofs. 2) Treats condensation avoidance in general, humidity control, controlling vapour flow, adding insulation, heating, mould. Illustrates numerous examples diagrammatically from various building types.
The moisture and thermal performance of a typical insulated wood-framed residential wall structure was investigated in the laboratory. The study included the effects of three types of vapor retarder systems and the effects of zero, positive, and negative total pressure differences across the wall. Exposure conditions were representative of a northern winter climate.
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