The restoration of claddings and exterior walls of heritage buildings is a growing activity in many Canadian towns and cities. However, to be acceptable for modern-day occupancies, these restored structures need to support an adequate indoor temperature, relative humidity (RH), air quality, and controlled building pressure.
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In cold climates, condensation-resistance performance is expected for standard curtain wall systems. However, occupancy factors, unconventional building geometry, design details, and the design of heating systems and interior finishes may result in the reduction of condensation resistance, as demonstrated by a case study of a 12-storey commercial building in Montréal.
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Water is the most significant factor in the premature deterioration of our buildings. Excessive moisture accumulation on porous materials can lead to water penetration, freeze-thaw damage, efflorescence, cracking, and façade soiling.
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In the July 2013 issue of Construction Canada, this author’s introduction to the virtual air barrier and dynamic buffer zone (VAB/DBZ), “Designing the Virtual Air Barrier,” was published.1 This article explained a research project on the basic science and technology of the VAB/DBZ to control condensation within the exterior walls of a large heritage building in Ottawa.
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