Hygrothermal Analysis of Wood-Frame Wall Assemblies in a Mixed-Humid Climate

Moisture performance is a key consideration in building envelope design. The occurrence of moisture problems resulting from poor design, construction, or unexpected interactions of new building materials can lead to a host of undesirable consequences: wood decay, mold growth, poor indoor air quality, infestation and degradation by insects, corrosion of metals, loss of thermal resistance in wet insula-tion, damage to materials and finishes from expansion or contraction, and loss of strength in building materials to the point of structural failure. Building repairs and litigation incur considerable costs.