The main goal of a research project on wind barriers was to get more information about the influence of wind pressure on the heat loss from wood frame constructions. The project was divided into three parts: calculations, hot-box measurements and wind pressure measurements on a rotatable test house, The theoretical studies as well as the experimental investigations in the hot-box, have been restricted to one specific type of forced convection in the thermal insulation, called "anblasning", i.e.
This paper presents and discusses results of moisture transfer into timber frame constructions. The two mechanisms of transfer are diffusion and bulk air movement. Three defects in construction were monitored punctured vapour barrier, continuous path via an electrical socket and discontinuities at junctions. The study has shown that, under steady-state conditions condensation can take place, while under varying conditions both condensation and evaporation occur. This second case is typical of the building in use, and can prevent high levels of moisture existing in timber components.
The concern that a large number of housing units across Canada, and in particular, through Atlantic Canada are exposed to potential damage from wood rot due to moisture trapped within exterior walls caused a joint task force of Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and Canadian Home Builders Association representatives to address the "drying of walls" issue. Included in their mandate was a field research project in Atlantic Canada. The project, undertaken by Oboe Engineering Ltd. and AD1 Limited.
A transient simulation method TRATMO with applications to the analysis of the hygrothermal behaviour of timber frame constructions with additional thermal insulation is discussed. This method makes it possible to evaluate the hygrothermal behaviour with respect to risks of mouldering since it gives simultaneous information on moisture content and temperature at certain sections of the construction. Based on the computer simulations and experiments a number of practical aspects to be considered in additional thermal insulation of timber frame constructions are introduced.
Test structures were constructed near Madison, Wis, USA and Gulfport, Miss, USA for exposure of eight types of insulated wall panels at controlled indoor conditions and typical outdoor weather conditions. Panels were instrumented with moisture sensors and tested without and with penetrations (electrical outlets) in the indoor surface. Continuous internal vapour barriers effectively prevented cold weather condensation in all panels. Installation of an electrical outlet changed moisture patterns in both the cold winter climate and the hot, humid summer climate.
Measured energy consumption figures are presented for a townhouse complex located in Regina, Saskatchewan. The complex consists of 8 two-storey wood frame structures incorporating low energy design principles and some passive solar features.
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