In situ measurements were compared with a numerical model to assess the effectiveness of the model for active envelopes as energy efficient building envelope solutions. There was good agreement for the mechanical flow active envelope, but not for the natural flow variant. States that taking into account the enthalpy change of the cavity air is essential for a correct evaluation of the energy efficiency of active envelopes.

Describes a new airtightness test procedure for testing a single zone within a multizone building. The technique enables the measurement of partition leakage so that it can be subtracted from the overall zone leakage.

Illustrates a procedure to optimise the building envelope during the early design stages, in respect to costs, construction and use and energy performance improvements. The tool is aimed at project authors and client. Of the tool's two linked modules, the first manages parameters for the project requirements, and the second, a graphics module, enables sketches and calculations for input to the first module.

Describes how design aids were developed to simplify the task of sizing inlet and exhaust openings and airway height for cathedral ceilings. Recommends guidelines for when and where roof ventilation is needed to avoid icings at eaves.

US standards for manufactured homes are designed to provide adequate outdoor air supply for the buildings. COMTAM96 was used to simulate one of the buildings under different ventilation situations. Ventilation rates and energy consumption were assess in annual simulations in three cities. On the basis of the results, recommendations are made for changes to the standards.

Field measurements and numerical simulation were used to measure moisture transfer to the building envelope for a building with and without a vapour barrier. The results indicated that the vapour resistance of the barrier can be significantly below that provided by polyethylene, even in cold climates. States that moisture transfer from indoor air to the envelope can be seen as improving the indoor air quality by moderating the indoor humidity.

Experimental and simulation results are presented from an investigation of simultaneous heat air and moisture transport in a loose-fill insulation. The aim of the study was to investigate the thermal and moisture effects of natural air convection with no liquid transport present and to validate a numerical model. The structure was placed between two climate chambers at different temperatures. The quasi-steady-state temperature distribution in the cavity of the structure and transient moisture condition were measured, as well as the material properties.

Postulates that figures for the energy load of a building affected by infiltration may be too high because the simple formula used does not account for heat recovery within the building envelope. In the study, sensible heat transfer was simulated with the used of CFD in typical envelopes. The results confirmed a possible overprediction of energy load up to 95% at low leakage rates.

Mould, wet insulation, wet or weakened wood or premature aging of roof coverings often leads to the addition of extra ventilation in attics at time of renovation. The study develops a protocol to determine the effects, surveys several occupied buildings to establish why the ventilation was added, and establishes a base to analyse the effect of the installation.