This course offers trainees a technical exploration of moisture dynamics in buildings. It emphasizes the critical role of moisture management in promoting long-term durability, occupant health, and energy performance.
Beginning with an overview of moisture-related challenges and historical context, the course guides trainees through the various types of moisture damage, highlighting the vulnerabilities of common building materials. Trainees will gain a clear understanding of moisture sources, such as rain, condensation, and ground moisture, and how climate and construction practices influence the presence of moisture in building assemblies.
Building on this foundation, the course introduces design strategies for moisture control, including the use of continuous air and vapor control layers, drainage systems, and material selection for moisture tolerance. Trainees will also delve into psychrometrics and condensation, learning to interpret psychrometric charts and apply moisture transport models to real-world scenarios.
The curriculum concludes with a detailed look at rain and groundwater control, exploring the “4Ds” of moisture management alongside best practices for detailing and system integration.
This course equips design professionals with the technical knowledge to identify and reduce the risk of moisture-related issues, enhancing their ability to deliver durable, high-performance buildings that meet client and project expectations.
What you’ll learn
- Describe the major forms and sources of moisture that affect building performance.
- Understand the concept of moisture balance and how to apply the moisture management principles of deflection, drainage (or storage), and drying.
- Implement design strategies to reduce condensation risk in building assemblies.
- List and distinguish strategies for rainwater control in building enclosures.
- Appreciate the importance of architectural details and recognize common errors that increase rainwater risk.
- Explain the importance of effective water management strategies in building enclosure assemblies.
