The Function and Performance of Weather-Resistive Barriers during Building Construction PDF

Weather-resistive barriers (WRB) are being increasingly recommended by practitioners and required by codes because of their role in reducing moisture problems in buildings. Specifications for these products rightfully focus on their performance over the service life of the building. These products, however, play another very important role, which is to protect moisture-sensitive building components while a building is under construction. Construction built-in moisture has been noted to be a significant factor in the performance of buildings, especially during the first two to three years of service life. This paper combines laboratory testing, field observations, and hygrothermal modeling to understand the effect of WRB properties (water resistance, and water vapor permeance) on the moisture loading of building components during construction.