Envelope Analysis

Envelope Durability Analysis

Teams have to discuss the major mechanisms that affect envelope durability integrating building science concepts of air transport, moisture management, and thermal and hygrothermal performance based on specific environmental conditions.

They have to provide summary examples of how the construction details and material specifications address: the physical principles for air movement control based on air sealing and air barrier designs; thermal control using insulation systems including analysis of thermal bridging; water and moisture management including envelope features to shed precipitation, control of moisture movement through the wall system, and the potential for moisture problems (such as condensation).

Finally, teams have to describe how the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Quality Management Provisions (QM #1) may be incorporated into the high-performance home documentation to reliably implement envelope systems that are resistant to moisture damage and air infiltration. 


https://www.ashrae.org/ (ASHRAE provides several relevant resources, such as Chapter 25 of the Handbook of Fundamentals)

DOE, Building Technologies Office, Building Science Education:

DOE, Challenge Home Recommended Quality Management Provisions:

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Building Science Publications:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Foundation Design Handbook: