Identifying the causes of building degradation and finding appropriate solutions through hygrothermal analysis

Preserving and maintaining building constructions is a continuous fight against ageing and degradation. The durability of building materials and components depends to a large extent on moisture. Impacts from natural weathering and building operation are important degradation parameters for building envelope systems. While some loads such as UV-exposure of exterior surface materials depend mainly on the local climate conditions, other parameters are strongly influenced by the construction itself. Especially the hygrothermal response of building envelope systems is governed by transport and storage characteristics.