MOISTURE PERFORMANCE OF WALLS IN ENERGY EFFICIENT HOMES

Transcription

1 MOISTURE PERFORMANCE OF WALLS IN ENERGY EFFICIENT HOMES Prepared For NAHB Construction Technology Research Subcommittee (CTRSC) August 14 Report No _ Prince George s Blvd. Upper Marlboro, MD HomeInnovation.com

2 Disclaimer Neither Home Innovation Research Labs, Inc., formerly the NAHB Research Center, Inc., nor any person acting on its behalf, makes any warranty, expressed or implied, with respect to the use of any information, apparatus, method, or process disclosed in this publication or that such use may not infringe privately owned rights, or assumes any liabilities with respect to the use of, or for damages resulting from the use of, any information, apparatus, method, or process disclosed in this publication, or is responsible for statements made or opinions expressed by individual authors.

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Definitions... v Purpose... 1 Background... 1 Research Methodology... 3 Research Home Criteria and Selected Locations... 3 Wall System Configurations and Sensor Locations... 5 Monitoring System and Data Collection... 9 In-Service Environmental Conditions Monitoring... Monitoring System... Sensor Calibration Wall Cavity and Environmental Conditions Measurement Results Reference Moisture Content for Oriented Strand Board (OSB) OSB Sheathing Moisture Content Results by Test Site Climate Zone Climate Zone Climate Zone 4C... Climate Zone 4A Climate Zone Climate Zone Seasonal Average Data Summaries and Analysis... Climate Zone 6... Climate Zone Climate Zone 4C Climate Zone Climate Zone Climate Zone Condensation Resistance Analysis Analysis Based on ASHRAE Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing i

4 Wall Cavity Inspection General Observations Based on Seasonal Measured Data Indoor Humidity OSB Moisture Content Dew Point Calculations ASHRAE 16 Criteria... 5 Wall orientation... 5 Summary Conclusions... 5 Bibliography Appendix A Wall Cavity Temperature Charts Appendix B: Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Charts Appendix C: Summary Moisture Performance by Wall Type Appendix D: Daily Indoor Temperature and Relative Humidity for Each Test Site August 14 ii Home Innovation Research Labs Wall Moisture Testing

5 TABLES Table 1. Summary of Test Sites... 5 Table 2. Wall Configurations in Test Houses... 6 Table 3. Summary of Test Wall Configurations by Construction Type... 7 Table 4. Average Seasonal Interior House Relative Humidity for CZ 6 Test Walls Table 5. Average Seasonal Interior House Relative Humidity for CZ 5 Test Walls Table 6. Average Seasonal Interior House Relative Humidity for CZ 4 Test Walls Table 7. Average Seasonal Interior Humidity for CZ 3 Test Walls Table 8. Average Seasonal House for CZ 2 Test Walls Table 9. Standard 16 Condition Criteria Necessary to imize Mold Growth Table. Overall Summary of Highest Average Sheathing Moisture Content FIGURES Figure 1. Map Showing Locations of Test Home Sites... 4 Figure 2. Example Sensor Layout for a Test House... 8 Figure 3. Sensor Installed in OSB Sheathing That Will be Foamed Over in This Test House... 9 Figure 4. Sensor Installed in OSB Sheathing That Will Not be Foamed Over in This Cavity... 9 Figure 5. Sensor After Foam Flash and Before Insulation... 9 Figure 6. Sensor Installed in Lumber in Cavity With Only Foam Sheathing... 9 Figure 7. Omnisense S-9-1 Sensor Figure 8. Screws used to Install Moisture Sensors Figure 9. Sensors in the Environmental Chamber for Calibration Figure. OSB Moisture Content Sensor Calibration Curves Figure 11. CZ 6A, MI (1), MC Readings for 2 Periods Figure 12. CZ 6A, MI (2), MC Readings for the First Period Figure 13. CZ 6A, WI, MC Readings for a 14-Month Period Figure 14. CZ 5A, MI (1), MC Readings for a 3-Month Period Figure 15. CZ 5A, MI (2), MC Readings for a 3-Month Period Figure 16. CZ 5A, MI (3), MC Readings for a 3-Month Period Figure 17. CZ 5A, IA (1), MC Readings for a 4-Month Period Figure 18. CZ 5A, IA (2), MC Readings for a 4-Month Period Figure 19. Climate Zone 5 Test House Precipitation and Temperature Comparison... Figure. CZ 4C, WA (1), MC Readings for a 5-Month Period Figure 21. CZ 4C, WA (2), MC Readings for a 6-Month Period Figure 22. CZ 4A, MD-1, MC Readings for a 2-Year Period Figure 23. CZ 4A, MD-2, MC Readings for an 18-Month Period Figure 24. CZ 4A, MD-3, MC Readings for a 19-Month Period Figure 25. CZ 4A, MD-4, MC Readings for an 18-Month Period Figure 26. Climate Zone 4 MD Test House Precipitation and Temperature Comparison Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing iii

6 Figure 27. CZ 4A, DE, MC Readings for a 14-Month Period Figure 28. CZ 3A, AL-1, MC Readings for a 6-Month Period Figure 29. CZ 3A, AL-2, MC Readings for a 6-Month Period Figure. CZ 3A, TX, MC Readings for a 3.5-Month Period Figure 31. CZ 2A, LA-1, MC Readings for a 4.5-Month Period Figure 32. CZ 2A, LA-2, MC Readings for a 4.5-Month Period Figure 33. CZ 2A, LA-3, MC Readings for a 4.5-Month Period... Figure 34. Climate Zone 6 Summary MC Data Figure 35. Climate Zone 5 Summary MC Data Figure 36. Climate Zone 4C Summary MC Data Figure 37. Climate Zone 4 Summary MC Data Figure 38. Climate Zone 3 Summary MC Data Figure 39. Climate Zone 2 Summary MC Data Figure 4. Condensing Surface Calculation Parameters... 4 Figure 41. MI Test Site, Theoretical Condensation Potential Figure 42. MI Test Site, Measured Condensation Potential Figure 43. MI Test Site (1), CZ5, Measured Condensation Potential Figure 44. MI Test Site (2), CZ5, Measured Condensation Potential Figure 45. MI Test Site (3), CZ5, Measured Condensation Potential Figure 46. MD Test Site, Theoretical Condensation Potential Figure 47. MD Test Site, Measured Condensation Potential Figure 48. MI Test Site, ASHRAE 16, S6.1 Duration When Criteria Exceeded in Cavity Figure 49. Insulation Removed from R-46 Wall for Observation Figure 5. Moisture Sensor Located in Wall Section Figure 51. Moisture Meter Reading Correlated with Sensor Figure 52. Indoor Relative Humidity Averages for Test Sites by Climate Zone Figure 53. Wall Cavity Seasonal Average Moisture Content August 14 iv Home Innovation Research Labs Wall Moisture Testing

7 Definitions ACH5 batt ccspf CZ DOE EPA ERV Flash coat HRV HSPF IECC IRC Kraft facing MC NAHB ocspf Building air changes per hour at a 5 Pascal interior pressure differential with respect to the exterior Insulation configured as a blanket or sheet element that is typically designed to fit within the framing wall cavity Closed cell spray polyurethane foam Climate zone (applicable to building energy efficiency analysis) defined based on heating degree days, average temperatures, and precipitation, and developed along county lines for the United States. United States Department of Energy United States Environmental Protection Agency Energy Recovery Ventilator A layer of closed-cell spray foam installed on the exterior sheathing that does not take the building cavity typically to allow for installation of another type of cavity insulation. Heat Recovery Ventilator Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, defined as the ratio between the thermal energy supplied and the electrical energy absorbed by the heat pump over the heating season International Energy Conservation Code, an energy conservation building code for residential and commercial structures, most recently published as the IECC by the International Code Council International Residential Code, a building code for residential one- and twofamily structures, most recently published as the IRC by the International Code Council Face layer on batt insulation that is generally vapor semi-impermeable (Class II) Moisture content (gravimetric); defined as the weight of the water contained in the wood expressed as a percentage of the oven-dry weight of the wood National Association of Home Builders, a building trade association Open cell spray polyurethane foam Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing v

8 OSB Oriented strand board Poly Polyethylene sheet material that is vapor impermeable (Class I) Polyiso RA R-value SEER sf Vinyl WME WRB XPS Polyisocyanurate rigid foam board insulation Return air, Air removed from conditioned space and circulated or exhausted Magnitude of the insulation resistance to heat flow with the dimension of hr F ft 2 /Btu Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is the total cooling output (in British thermal units or Btu) provided by the air conditioning unit (or heat pump) during its normal annual usage period divided by its total energy input (in watt-hours) during the same period Spray foam Vinyl siding used as the outermost exterior finish Wood moisture equivalent, a percent value describing the relative moisture content of a material and used in this study applied to wood species and compensated for the temperature of the measured element Water Resistive Barrier (sometimes referred to as a weather resistive barrier) Extruded polystyrene rigid foam board insulation August 14 vi Home Innovation Research Labs Wall Moisture Testing

9 Purpose Recent changes in the minimum energy code ( IECC) significantly increased wall insulation levels and reduced wall air leakage targets for light-frame wood walls, relative to the 6 and 9 IECC. The long-term moisture performance of these new wall systems is not well understood with regard to vapor drive, condensation risk, and drying capability. With moisture performance increasingly becoming a design consideration in the selection of wall systems, home builders and designers need practical guidance for construction of walls that ensure durability of residential buildings. As part of a broad multi-year research program on the moisture performance of residential wall systems, this project focuses on characterization of energy efficient walls in a sample of new, occupied homes recently constructed around the country in moist or marine climate zones. The data also provides the range of indoor relative humidity levels measured during the monitoring period. The wall system designs and target house air infiltration rates were selected to meet or exceed minimum performance levels outlined in the IECC, EPA ENERGY STAR V3. program, and the DOE Challenge Home program. The objectives of this ongoing research are to document seasonal wall cavity moisture characteristics, wood structural panel sheathing moisture characteristics, and indoor relative humidity levels in occupied homes. The study scope extends across various climate zones where the wall construction is designed to substantially increase thermal performance and whole-house air sealing achieves much lower infiltration rates. Empirical field moisture data is necessary to evaluate the impact of added wall material layers installed under realistic construction conditions and subject to occupant driven loads. This testing will help provide sufficient details to isolate the variables or combination of variables that may result in unsatisfactory moisture performance of common wall system designs used in high performance homes. Likewise, the field data provides a unique perspective on the cyclic behavior of wall systems as it pertains to variable moisture characteristics both inside and outside the thermal enclosure. The purpose of this ongoing effort is to evaluate wall systems designed and installed by builders in the field as part of their commercial enterprise. In some cases, deviations from the builder s standard practice in terms of material selection and wall layers were requested to provide a comparative measurement of wall system designs in the same house environment. The wall system designs vary across climate zones and are based on current best practices from construction experience and building science knowledge from manufacturers and industry professionals. Background With the new code requirements for highly insulated wall systems, concerns were raised by builders through the NAHB committees of potential moisture problems in walls when new materials are layered in and outside of the wall cavity in these new wall designs. To better understand the moisture response of the wall system, an effort to develop a base of wall cavity moisture characteristic field data was Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 1

10 embarked upon in. Initial wall moisture measurement results were obtained for a select set of homes with reported OSB buckling in the Midwestern states and Pennsylvania. The homes were located in cold climates (Climate Zones 5 and 6) or at the boundary between the cold and mixed-humid climates (Zone 4). This original monitoring effort provided details on OSB expansion characteristics, the air-tightness of the test homes, wall cavity moisture characteristics including the OSB moisture content, the temperature and humidity in the cavity near the OSB panel, and the indoor temperature and humidity (NAHB Research Center, ). All of the homes in that study were framed 2x4, except for one 2x6 framed home, and used standard batt insulation with Kraft facing. The infiltration rate for all of the homes was less than 4 ACH5 (ranging from ACH5). The field test results indicated that some OSB panels had expansion characteristics that could potentially exceed the standard recommended gap between panels. For some monitored wall cavities, the OSB moisture content (MC) exceeded %, with one wall cavity exceeding 25%. The wall systems monitored exhibited a cyclic response such that, as expected, winter MC levels were higher than summer levels. levels were typically below 12% MC and winter levels ranged between 12% and % MC with some notable excursions to over 25%. Analytical tools such as WUFI simulation software 1 or simplified dew point calculations are used to analyze the moisture characteristics of a framed wall system given assumed exterior and interior environmental conditions. Simulation estimates have a range of capabilities depending on the software and may include specific material characteristics, dimensional heat flows, effects of layered vs. parallelpath material installation, effects of air leakage and solar effects on the exterior surfaces, and other variables that can impact moisture and heat transfer. Calculations to estimate the potential for condensation in the cavity near the sheathing provide a general framework for wall design that limits moisture-related risk but do not generally predict the resulting moisture content of materials such as the sheathing. Also, these calculations are dependent on the variable mix of indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity conditions. However, these analysis tools are the least cost approach to evaluating wall designs that are resistant to problematic moisture conditions such as mold growth and material degradation. While software tools and design methodologies are continually improved, there is a need for field data to complement and validate the software analysis. The field data can provide the tangible material response to actual environmental conditions. This relationship is important since it accounts for the variations of diurnal occupant and environmental drivers, whereas many analysis tools rely on long term averages. Interior relative humidity is one such driver that is difficult to predict since it is very specific to occupant behavior. The ongoing field monitoring effort described herein provides both the measured conditions in the home and in the wall cavity near the exterior sheathing. The moisture characteristics are reported on a daily average basis; however, higher resolution data is available should a specific measured result require more detail. Field monitoring provides a snapshot of actual conditions encountered and thus can 1 WUFI is software for calculating the coupled heat and moisture transfer in building components. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 2 Wall Moisture Testing

11 help provide confidence in assumptions used in analytical tools. The obvious limitation to field measurements is the relatively narrow band of information provided unless a large sample size is available. This report provides a set of field data for high performance framed wall assemblies to identify the range of wall cavity moisture conditions and provides an introduction to the cyclic nature of the moisture characteristics in walls. The data can also be used to catalog wall systems that, under the documented conditions, appear to function in a manner that would not be expected to lead to moisture problems. Research Methodology The research methodology used for the field tests was developed in conjunction with NAHB members including builders, manufacturers, building scientists, and others related to the building industry. The methodology incorporates the following general outline: Identify test homes in select climate zones based on a minimum set of design criteria (IECC ); Collect relevant design, construction, and material data for each selected test home; Locate and install wall cavity moisture sensors in select wall sections; Compile relevant as-built construction documentation and infiltration test results for each selected home; Compile and chart moisture-related data; and Compile a matrix of climate-based wall assemblies and documented moisture characteristics. This report summarizes the current data set available for test homes with a sufficient data record. Ongoing monitoring will enable a wider selection of homes as well as multiple years of data to assess repeatability of the results and identify any changes to the environmental conditions or the response of the wall cavity moisture characteristics to changing environmental conditions. Any relevant conclusions are drawn based on the analysis completed to date and are expected to undergo updates as the monitoring effort continues. Research Home Criteria and Selected Locations Using a network of builder relationships throughout the U.S., a matrix of homes was developed that included climate zone and wall system variables. Test homes were selected from all Moist climate zones (CZ) except for CZ1, CZ7, CZ8 and from CZ4 Marine. Efforts were made to select multiple homes in one climate zone with similar wall systems to provide more data for any given wall system. The builder or the builder s representative provided all documentation of the house construction details, installation of sensors, and infiltration measurements. Builders and homes were solicited based on a set of minimum requirements: Insulation levels that meet or exceed prescriptive requirements of the IECC; Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 3

12 Infiltration target rate of 3 ACH5 (5 ACH5 in Climate Zone 2) per IECC; and Whole-house ventilation using exhaust fans or a dedicated ventilation system. A total of 22 homes were identified by the Home Innovation Research Labs for acceptance into the study. All of the homes have been instrumented and are under test for the -13 heating season. Figure 1 diagrams the location of the 22 test homes Figure 1. Map Showing Locations of Test Home Sites A summary of the test house locations and other key relevant parameters is provided in Table 1. Blower door tests were used to determine infiltration rates and were performed after completion of construction. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 4 Wall Moisture Testing

13 Test Site State + ID Climate Zone Conditioned Floor Area, sf Table 1. Summary of Test Sites Foundation Infiltration ACH5 Ventilation Monitoring Start Date 1 LA1 2A 1,896 crawlspace 4.4 Exhaust fans 3// 2 LA2 2A 1,896 crawlspace 4.3 Exhaust fans 3// 3 LA3 2A 1,896 crawlspace 2. Exhaust fans 3// 4 AL1 3A 1,94 slab on grade 1.3 Exhaust fans 2/17/ 5 AL2 3A 1,94 slab on grade 2.2 Exhaust fans 2/17/ 6 TX1 3A 2,115 slab on grade 1.8 HRV 6// 7 MD1 4A 4,47 basement 1.9 RA supply 5/24/11 8 MD2 4A 4,648 basement 2.3 RA supply 12/8/11 9 MD3 4A 4,371 basement 2.4 RA supply 11//11 MD4 4A 4,486 basement 2.3 RA supply 11/9/11 11 DE1 4A 4,893 basement 1. RA supply 1/26/ 12 WA1 4C 3,199 slab on grade 3.1 Exhaust fans 11/1/ 13 WA2 4C 2,735 slab on grade 3.4 Exhaust fans /3/ 14 WA3 4C 2,815 slab on grade 2.2 HRV 4/25/13 15 IA1 5A 5,293 basement <2. HRV 11/8/ 16 IA2 5A 3,256 basement <2. HRV 12/1/ 17 MI1 5A 1,352 basement 3.4 ERV 12/14/ 18 MI2 5A 1,352 basement 3.3 ERV 12/14/ 19 MI3 5A 1344 basement 1.5 ERV 1/4/13 WI1 6A 1,368 slab on grade <4. HRV 1// 21 MI1 6A 4,318 basement.8 ERV 12/17/11 22 MI2 6A 1,261 basement.9 ERV 12/14/ Wall System Configurations and Sensor Locations The purpose of this testing is to document the moisture characteristics of wall systems that have insulation levels that meet or exceed the prescriptive minimums established in the IECC, EPA ENERGY STAR Certified Homes program 2, and the DOE Challenge Home program 3. In some cases with the agreement of the builder, multiple wall configurations were employed in the same house. The purpose is to provide more cases of comparative wall systems that experience the same environmental conditions. Table 2 outlines the wall configurations for each Test House by climate zone. Appendix C shows a diagram of each wall section referenced. The majority of walls did not have a dedicated interior vapor retarder (only gypsum and standard primer/paint). There were a total of three test sites with a dedicated interior vapor retarder (Sites 15&16 poly (Class I); Site paint (Class III)). 2 Find more at 3 Information about the DOE Challenge Home program can be found at Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 5

14 Table 2. Wall Configurations in Test Houses Test Wall State CZ Framing OSB WRB Site Ref. + ID Ext. Insulating Sheathing Cavity Insulation and Nominal R- Interior Vapor Exterior Cladding and Nominal R-value 1 value 2 Retarder/Barrier 1 A LA1 2x4 Y Y N/A Fiberglass Batt (R13) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement (FC) 2 B LA2 2x4 Y N 1/2" Foam (R3) Spray Cellulose (R15) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding (VS) 2A 2x6 Y Y N/A Spray Rockwool (R24) Gypsum/paint L.P. Smart Siding 3 I LA3 2x6 Y Y Reflective WRB (E/W) Spray Rockwool (R24) Gypsum/paint L.P. Smart Siding 4 C AL1 2x4 Y N 1" XPS Foam (R5) Fiberglass Batt (R13) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding 5 G AL2 3A 2x4 Y Y N/A Closed Cell Foam (R18) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding 6 P TX1 2x6 Y Y N/A Open Cell Foam (R16) Gypsum/paint Brick Veneer 7 H 2x6 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R23) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement MD1 U (2) 2x6 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R46) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement 8 H MD2 2x6 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R23) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement 4A 9 H MD3 2x6 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R23) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement H MD4 2x6 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R23) Gypsum/paint Stone Front, FC 11 H DE1 2x6 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R23) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding 12 Q WA1 Offset 2x4 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R24) Gypsum/paint FC, Shake Siding 13 Q WA2 Offset 2x4 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R24) Gypsum/paint FC, Shake Siding 4C Q Offset 2x4 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R24) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement 14 WA3 D 2x4 Y N 1" XPS Foam (R5) Blown Fiberglass (R15) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement 15 X IA1 2x6 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R23) 4 mil Polyethylene Stone Front, VS 16 X IA2 2x6 Y Y N/A Blown Fiberglass (R23) 4 mil Polyethylene Stone Front, VS R 2x6 Y Y 1" XPS Foam (R5) ccspf Flash, Blown Cellulose (R21) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement 17 MI1 W 2x6 Y Y 1" XPS Foam (R5) Blown Cellulose (R21) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement 5A R 2x6 Y Y 1" XPS Foam (R5) ccspf Flash, Blown Cellulose (R21) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement 18 MI2 W 2x6 Y Y 1" XPS Foam (R5) Blown Cellulose (R21) Gypsum/paint Fiber Cement 19 T Offset 2x4 Y Y 1.5" XPS Foam (R7.5) Blown Cellulose (R21) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding MI3 V Offset 2x4 Y Y 1.5" XPS Foam (R7.5) ccspf Flash, Blown Cellulose (R21) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding J 2x6 Y N 1/2" Foil Faced Foam (R2.5) Blown Cellulose (R19) Vapor barrier paint Cedar Siding WI1 K 2x6 N N 1" Foil Faced Foam (R5) Blown Cellulose (R19) Vapor barrier paint Cedar Siding N 2x6 Y N 1" XPS Foam (R5) ccspf Flash, Blown Fiberglass (R23) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding O 2x6 N N 1" XPS Foam (R5) ccspf Flash, Blown Fiberglass (R23) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding 6A L 2x6 Y N 1" XPS Foam (R5) Blown Fiberglass (R) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding 21 MI1 M 2x6 N N 1" XPS Foam (R5) Blown Fiberglass (R) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding E 2x4 Y N 2" XPS Foam (R) Blown Fiberglass (R13) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding F 2x4 N N 2" XPS Foam (R) Blown Fiberglass (R13) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding 22 S MI2 6A 2x6 Y N 2" XPS Foam (R) Blown Fiberglass (R) Gypsum/paint Vinyl Siding ST State; CZ Climate Zone; N/A not applicable/not installed 1 The nominal R-value of the insulating sheathing. 2 The nominal R-value of the cavity portion of the wall (excluding the insulating sheathing). 3 The WRB represents spun-bonded polyolefin house wrap. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 6 Wall Moisture Testing

15 Table 3 organizes the different wall sections monitored in this study by construction type. Table 3. Summary of Test Wall Configurations by Construction Type Wall No. Climate Zones Wall Configuration I.D. Homes Where Installed A 1 2x4, OSB, R13 batt cavity 2A B 1 2x4, 1/2" XPS, OSB, R15 spray cellulose 2A C 1 2x4, 1" XPS, OSB, R13 fiberglass batt 3A D 1 2x4, 1" XPS, OSB, R15 blown fiberglass 4C E 1 2x4, 2" XPS, OSB, blown fiberglass 6A F 1 2x4, 2" XPS, blown fiberglass 6A G 1 2x4, OSB, CC foam cavity 3A H 5 2x6, OSB, blown fiberglass 4A I 1 2x6, Foil WRB, OSB, R24 blown rockwool 2A J 1 2x6, 1/2" Foil Faced Foam, OSB, R19 blown cellulose 6A K 1 2x6, 1" Foil Faced Foam, R19 blown cellulose 6A L 1 2x6, 1" XPS, OSB, blown fiberglass 6A M 1 2x6, 1" XPS, blown fiberglass 6A N 1 2x6, 1" XPS, OSB, flash/blown fiberglass 6A O 1 2x6, 1" XPS, flash/blown fiberglass 6A P 1 2x6, OSB, OC foam 4"-5" of cavity 3A/B Q 3 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset studs, OSB, R24 blown fiberglass 4C R 2 2x6, 1" XPS, OSB, flash/blown cellulose 5A S 1 2x6, 2" XPS, OSB, blown fiberglass 6A T 1 2x6 plates, 1-1/2" XPS, OSB, 2x4 offset studs, blown cellulose 5A U 1 (2) 2x6, OSB, blown fiberglass 4A V 1 2x6 plates, 1-1/2" XPS, OSB, 2x4 offset studs, flash/blown cellulose 5A W 2 2x6, 1" XPS, OSB, blown cellulose 5A X 2 2x6, OSB, blown fiberglass, 4 mil poly 5A Each Test House has specific wall sections in which sensors are located. Generally, multiple sensors are placed in the north and east orientations with fewer sensors located in the west and south orientations since previous experience has demonstrated that the north and east orientations generally show the highest moisture content of sheathing (reduced or no direct solar radiation). Where the same homes have differing wall configurations, additional sensors have been employed. Figure 2 shows an example layout of sensor locations identified for the builder. Once the sensors are installed, the builder returns this layout with ID labels from the individual sensor installed at that location. Figure 3 through Figure 5 show pictures of installed sensors. In some wall cavities in the same test house, an effort was made to compare the moisture characteristics of the sheathing with and without a layer of foam (ccspf) flash in the cavity. In another comparison, the wall cavity moisture characteristics are compared in homes with OSB sheathing and without sheathing. Sensors installed in cavities without OSB sheathing are installed in the wood framing near the foam sheathing (see Figure 6). Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 7

16 Figure 2. Example Sensor Layout for a Test House August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 8 Wall Moisture Testing

17 Figure 3. Sensor Installed in OSB Sheathing That Will be Foamed Over in This Test House Figure 4. Sensor Installed in OSB Sheathing That Will Not be Foamed Over in This Cavity Figure 5. Sensor After Foam Flash and Before Insulation Figure 6. Sensor Installed in Lumber in Cavity With Only Foam Sheathing Builders of the test homes were asked to install the sensors in the identified locations prior to cavity insulation and identify a sensor ID with each location. Sensors were also installed in the interior of the home near the thermostat, in the main bathroom where wall cavity sensors were installed, in the basement (if applicable), and on the exterior of the home and preferably on the north side of the house. Monitoring System and Data Collection Once the house was completed, the builder installed a receiver box containing the sensor receiver and a transmitter. When activated, the receiver records data from each sensor on at least a 15-minute basis and transmits the data to a website. As long as the receiver has power, data will be recorded by the receiver regardless of the internet connection. During a power outage, the sensor data is not recorded. The data collected from the sensors includes the temperature and relative humidity at the sensor body and, via screw pin terminals, the moisture content (from the conductance of the wood). The moisture content of the wood is temperature compensated based on the sensor temperature reading. The data set available based on sensor measurements include temperature, relative humidity, wood moisture Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 9

18 content, dew point temperature, grains of moisture per pound of dry air, and the battery voltage of the sensor. The system is described in greater detail in the following section. Sensors were installed in test homes in wall sections identified by orientation. For multi-story above grade homes, sensors were placed in both the first and second story wall sections. Interior sensors provide temperature and relative humidity data in the main living space and are located as near the thermostat as practical. A second interior sensor is located in the main bathroom and where wall cavity sensors are located. For basement foundations, a third interior sensor is located in the basement area to provide temperature and humidity data in the below grade portion of the home. An exterior sensor is used to record the ambient temperature and relative humidity and is shielded using a white PVC cap. Sensor data is transmitted at a minimum on a 15-minute basis. All data is uploaded continuously to a website capable of data storage. The raw data is processed to calculate the dew point and grains of moisture based on the temperature and relative humidity. The moisture content data is calibrated to a standard wood moisture content based on the temperature at the wood surface. The data set stored on the website is downloaded periodically and averaged on a daily basis for further analysis and charting. Each sensor is associated with a wall room location and orientation and ultimately with a wall and house configuration. In-Service Environmental Conditions Monitoring Wall cavity moisture characterization of higher efficiency wall systems is used as a means to support wall system design methodologies by providing a field-based data set of wall systems under actual field conditions in various climates. The field data differs from modeling exercises and laboratory testing as neither the interior nor ambient conditions that drive the moisture cycles in the wall system are controlled. In addition, the wall systems are constructed using typical methodologies and materials found in the field and as specified by the builder. It is the intent of the project to monitor field walls consistent with builder s standard practice (i.e., Home Innovation Research Labs didn t engage with the builder s design and construction processes). This was generally achieved in most of the locations except for one location where the ventilation system was designed, specified, and inspected through support of a trade association, and in instances where the builder used specific types of wall materials in order to expand the range of wall systems for the field study. Monitoring System Small wireless sensors (Omnisense S-9-1 shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8) were installed in walls in all analyzed homes to measure the following parameters: Cavity Temperature (-4 to 185 F); Cavity Relative Humidity ( to %); Cavity Dew Point Temperature; and OSB Sheathing Moisture Content (7 to 4%). August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs Wall Moisture Testing

19 The temperature (T) and relative humidity (RH) are measured by an internal sensor located inside the plastic housing. The wood moisture content (MC) is determined using two screw pins driven into the sheathing and is based on the measured resistivity of the OSB material. The sensors are prepared at Home Innovation with a protective covering that inhibits moisture or other materials from entering the sensor body through the battery compartment and the stand-off legs are removed so that the T and RH sensor directly abuts the interior surface of the OSB. In this manner, the sensors have been successfully fielded in locations where expanding foam covers the sensor body. Figure 7. Omnisense S-9-1 Sensor Figure 8. Screws used to Install Moisture Sensors Sensor Calibration The manufacturer stated accuracy for the sensor models used is +/- 2.%RH and +/-.3 C. The Home Innovation Research Labs has performed numerous calibrations to verify both sensor accuracy and the correlations with moisture content. Moisture content correlations have been performed comparing to readings on handheld electrical conductance type moisture meters as well as comparing moisture content readings with gravimetric measurement calculations. The wood moisture content values reported through the sensor technology is the ratio of the water content of wood relative to the dry weight as a percentage. The sensor manufacturer calibrates their devices based on wood species and temperature compensation relationships outlined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. For calibration purposes, a set of sensors were installed in OSB samples and placed inside an environmental chamber capable of controlling relative humidity and temperature. Figure 9 shows the set of sensors in the environmental chamber where temperature and humidity were tightly controlled at various levels of humidity for calibration purposes. At various levels of humidity and when equilibrium was achieved (equilibrium moisture content, EMC) based on specimen weight consistency, the specimens were removed weighed, oven dried and weighed once again. The resultant ratio of the measurements provides the gravimetric moisture content of the specimen. Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 11

20 Figure 9. Sensors in the Environmental Chamber for Calibration Figure plots the sensor moisture content reading, the oven dry moisture content and various reference curves from literature and shows the calibration relationship between the sensor reading and the measured OSB specimen moisture content. A curve for solid wood is also included as a reference. In all cases, the reported sensor reading is higher than the gravimetric calculation by 1-3% MC. The NIST reference curves align well with the gravimetric measurements. The OSB moisture content sensor readings presented in this report have been adjusted based on calibration to the gravimetric measurements as shown in Figure. Stud measurements are based on the sensor manufacturers calibration to solid lumber species and reported without adjustment. Figure. OSB Moisture Content Sensor Calibration Curves August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 12 Wall Moisture Testing

21 Wall Cavity and Environmental Conditions Measurement Results The available recorded measurements for each home are presented individually to demonstrate the differences in wall orientation and where available, to compare various wall configurations. Indoor and ambient environmental conditions are also presented to provide a context for the wall cavity moisture characteristics. Reference Moisture Content for Oriented Strand Board (OSB) The fiber saturation point refers to the moisture content where the wood fibers cannot absorb more water within the cellular structure. Though equilibrium moisture content varies for different wood species, generally % moisture content is considered the maximum fiber saturation point MC for solid wood (Wood Handbook, FPL). For OSB the equilibrium moisture content is three to five percentage points below that of solid wood products (Carll and Wiedenhoeft). An OSB fiber saturation point of 26% is used in this report. OSB Sheathing Moisture Content Results by Test Site A primary performance factor of interest in evaluating the moisture characteristics of wall systems is the peak level and seasonal cyclic behavior of the moisture content (MC) in the sheathing material. This is of particular interest because the wood sheathing provides structural support for the framing (and often the siding) and sustained high levels of moisture in the sheathing may compromise the long-term structural performance. Similarly, high levels of moisture at the sheathing, under certain conditions of temperature, can lead to mold growth on organic surfaces. Using the available data for each site, charts of the average sheathing (or where no sheathing is used, stud) moisture content are shown. The OSB moisture content sensor readings have been calibrated based on the sensor calibration discussion above. All Figures in this section are daily average MC readings over at least one winter period for walls in an individual test house in the specific location. For reference, wood fiber saturation level estimates for OSB panels (estimated at 26 percent MC) are shown on charts. Where multiple homes are located in the same climate zone, a numeric designation is used to identify the home. Summary analyses for each climate zone are provided following either a specific test home or a set of test homes. Climate Zone 6 Summary results are shown in Figure 11 for a test home in Michigan, Climate Zone 6A. The following observations can be made: North and east walls have generally higher MC than west or south; Use of a closed cell spray polyurethane foam (ccspf) flash coat over the interior OSB lowers the MC of the OSB in the first winter after construction, and helps to maintains lower MC in subsequent years; Use of a ccspf flash coat over the interior OSB appears to inhibit the OSB drying in the summer months compared to OSB without a flash coat; The bathroom shower wall cavity MC (orange curve) increases to a higher level in late winter and does not dry to as low a level compared with other wall sections; Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 13

22 Moisture Content - % The uninsulated exposed cavity in an unheated garage (yellow curve) follows a similar pattern as other sensors located in wall cavities adjacent to conditioned space; and Use of exterior foam greater than 1 inch in thickness, generally results in lower OSB moisture content readings than wall systems with less or no exterior foam. 25 CZ 6A - Michigan - Site 21 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content E-LvRm1 E-LvRm2 E-Mbath N-DnRm, exp (L) N-Garage N-Mbath, stud (O) N-MBath, stud, exp (M) N-Mbed N-Mbed, exp (L) S-1Fl-Bed2 S-2Fl-2x4+2, exp (E) S-2Fl-2x4+2, stud, exp (F) S-2Fl-Stair W-Mbath OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Note: Wall Type N - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type O- 1" XPS, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type L - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x6, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type M - 1" XPS, 2x6, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type E - 2" XPS, OSB, 2x4, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type F - 2" XPS, 2x4, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Average 11- winter indoor RH, 34% Average -13 winter indoor RH, 32% Figure 11. CZ 6A, MI (1), MC Readings for 2 Periods Summary results for a second test home in Michigan, Climate Zone 6A, are shown in Figure 12. This data is from the first winter following construction. The indoor relative humidity is relatively high compared with other homes tested in the climate zone. Since this is the first winter following construction, it is less representative of long term performance. The moisture content levels are expected to drop through the cooling season, and due to the exterior insulation are not expected to rise to these initial levels in subsequent winter heating periods. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 14 Wall Moisture Testing

23 Moisture Content - % CZ 6A - Michigan - Site 22 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content N-Kit/Gar N-2Fl-Bed1 N-2Fl-Bath E-LvRm1 E-LvRm2 E-2Fl-Bed4 E-2Fl-Bed1 S-Stair S-2Fl-Bed3 W-Laun W-2Fl-Bed2 W-2Fl-Bed3 Note: Wall Type S - 2" Foam, OSB, 2x6 framing, OSB Fiber Saturation ccspf flash, R23 spider insulation, gypsum/paint Wood Fiber Saturation Average -13 winter indoor RH, 46% Figure 12. CZ 6A, MI (2), MC Readings for the First Period Summary results are shown in Figure 13 for a test home in Wisconsin, Climate Zone 6A. Unfortunately, at this test site, most of the sensors appeared to have suffered damage as they ceased reading following the installation of the insulation, likely due to the use of wet blown cellulose insulation. All sensors had initial high MC readings, even in solid wood members, and the three remaining wall cavity sensors do appear to trend downward into the summer months. However, this limited data set does not provide a high degree of confidence in generalizing the results. Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 15

24 Moisture Content - % 25 CZ 6A - Wisconsin - Site - Wall Cavity Moisture Content E-Kit E-Kit2, 1", stud N-Laun, 1", stud N-Mbath, 1", stud N-Mbed S-Kit W-2Fl-Stor W-LvRm W-Mbed, 1", stud OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Note: Wall J (solid/osb) - 1/2" Plfoil, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/vapor barrier paint Wall K (dash/stud) - 1" Plfoil, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/vapor barrier paint Average 11- winter indoor RH, 44% Average -13 winter indoor RH, 43% Figure 13. CZ 6A, WI, MC Readings for a 14-Month Period Climate Zone 5 Summary results are shown in Figure 14 and Figure 15 for two test homes in Michigan, Climate Zone 5A. The following observations can be made: In the 2x6 walls without ccspf, the OSB MC shows a slow upward trend to about %; In the same 2x6 walls without the ccspf, the MC levels exceed 26% but remain fairly flat; These results suggest that one inch of exterior foam is insufficient for controlling OSB sheathing moisture in walls without an adequate vapor retarder; and Generally, higher MC levels are seen in the north and east walls, consistent with other test home data. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 16 Wall Moisture Testing

25 Moisture Content - % Moisture Content - % CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 17 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type R (solid line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, 1" ccspf flash, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type W (dash line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Average -13 winter indoor RH, 38% N-Kit 1 N-Kit 2 N-stair N-Mbath, no spf N-Mbath E-DnRm, no spf 1 E-DnRm 1 E-DnRm 2 E-DnRm, no spf 2 E-2Fl-Bed S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed W-2Fl-bed OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation Figure 14. CZ 5A, MI (1), MC Readings for a 3-Month Period CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 18 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type R (solid line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, 1" ccspf flash, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type W (dash line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Average -13 winter indoor RH, 32% N-Kit 1 N-Kit 2 N-stair N-Mbath, no spf N-Mbath E-DnRm, no spf 1 E-DnRm 1 E-DnRm, no spf 2 E-DnRm 2 E-2Fl-Bed S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed W-2Fl-bed OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation Figure 15. CZ 5A, MI (2), MC Readings for a 3-Month Period Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 17

26 Moisture Content - % Summary results are shown in Figure 16 for a test home in Michigan, Climate Zone 5A. The following observations can be made: The MC for all sections with ccspf flash remain below % and are slightly lower than the 2x6 walls shown in Figures 14 and 15 above; The MC for wall sections without ccspf show similar results to the 2x6 walls shown in Figures 14 and 15 with MC exceeding 26% MC (the coat of ccspf flash reduces the vapor transfer to the sheathing and keeps the cavity warmer); and, Measurements in framing are consistently lower than MC in the OSB sheathing. CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 19 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type T - 1-1/2" Foam, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset framing, 1" ccspf, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type V - 1-1/2" Foam, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset framing, 1" ccspf, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Special Note: 16"x24" OSB plates for testing Average -13 winter indoor RH, 38% N-DnRm, osb, no spf N-DnRm N-2Fl-Bed2 E-DnRm, osb, no spf E-DnRm S-Mbath S-2Fl Bed4 W-2Fl Bed2 Wood Fiber Saturation N-DnRm, stud N-Mbed E-LvRm E-DnRm, stud E-2Fl-Bed4 S-LvRm W-Mbed OSB Fiber Saturation Figure 16. CZ 5A, MI (3), MC Readings for a 3-Month Period Summary results are shown in Figures 17 and 18 for two test homes in Iowa, Climate Zone 5A. The following observations can be made: As a result of using poly as an interior vapor retarder, the MC of the 2x6 walls without ccspf is generally lower than the CZ5 Michigan wall measurements; The MC in this first winter after construction are generally flat for all sensors another indicator of the effectiveness of poly as a vapor retarder; and The home with the higher interior average relative humidity demonstrates clearly higher MC levels than the home with a low interior RH. This effect is likely attributed to air leakage around the poly. Figure 19 compares the exterior conditions for the Climate Zone 5 sites in Michigan and Iowa. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 18 Wall Moisture Testing

27 Moisture Content - % Moisture Content - % CZ 5A - Iowa - Site 15 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content 25 N-Mbed1 N-Mbed2 N-Mbath E-FamRm E-Mbed E-Laun S-Bath S-Bed2 W-Bed2 OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Note: Wall Type X - OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, interior v.b., gypsum/paint Average -13 winter indoor RH, 28% Figure 17. CZ 5A, IA (1), MC Readings for a 4-Month Period 25 CZ 5A - Iowa - Site 16 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content N-BsmtBed N-BsmtRec1 N-BsmtRec2 N-FamRm N-Kit N-Mbed E-BsmtBath E-Mbath E-Mbed S-Bath S-Bed2 W-Kit W-Laun OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Note: Wall Type X - OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, interior v.b., gypsum/paint Average -13 winter indoor RH, 4% Figure 18. CZ 5A, IA (2), MC Readings for a 4-Month Period Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 19

28 Daily Precipitaion, Running Total, Inches, F 12 Precipitation Comparison for Mi and IA Test Houses Grand Rapids, MI Precipitation, In Iowa City, IA Precipitation, In Grand Rapids, Temperature Iowa City, Temperature Figure 19. Climate Zone 5 Test House Precipitation and Temperature Comparison Climate Zone 4C Summary results are shown in Figures and 21 for two of three test homes in Washington, Climate Zone 4C. Data are somewhat limited, but the following observations can be made: The sheathing MC show increasing levels in the winter; and MC levels trend over % when the interior relative humidity is higher. Note: Specific sensor locations are not shown for these two sites. The locations are unknown as a result of builder s staffing changes. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs Wall Moisture Testing

29 Moisture Content - % Moisture Content - % CZ 4C - Washington - Site 12 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note:Wall Q - WRB, OSB, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset studs, R24, gypsum/paint Average -13 winter indoor RH, 43% sensor 9 sensor 1 sensor 2 sensor 3 sensor 4 sensor 5 sensor 6 sensor 7 sensor 8 OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation Figure. CZ 4C, WA (1), MC Readings for a 5-Month Period 25 CZ 4C - Washington - Site 13 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Sensor7 Sensor8 Sensor4 Sensor5 Sensor6 Sensor1 Sensor2 Sensor3 Sensor9 Sensor Sensor11 Sensor12 OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Note: Wall Q - WRB, OSB, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset studs, R24, gypsum/paint Average 11- winter indoor RH, 34% Average -13 winter indoor RH, 32% Figure 21. CZ 4C, WA (2), MC Readings for a 6-Month Period Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 21

30 Moisture Content - % Climate Zone 4A Summary results are shown in (Figure 22) for a test home in Maryland, Climate Zone 4A. Over two full heating seasons, the following observations can be made: OSB sheathing on the northeast and northwest directions has generally higher MC than other orientations (consistent with other test sites); Moisture contents in the standard wall construction (R23) for the test house range from 7% to 18% at the same point during the winter period; The much higher wall insulation (~R46 compared with ~R23) results in an increase of about 2% MC over the highest standard wall MC in the winter season and a MC in summer that is slightly higher, but in line with, than the standard wall sections; All wall sections dry to less than % MC in summer season; and The home was unoccupied during the first heating period but is used as an active model by the builder with a humidifier operating; the home was occupied during most of the second winter period. 25 CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 7 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type U - WRB, OSB, (2) 2x6, R46 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Average 11- winter indoor RH, 44% Average -13 winter indoor RH, 41% NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NW-1Fl-Hall-R46 NW-1Fl-GrRm SE-1Fl-Kit2 SE-1Fl-DR NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Hall SE-2Fl-Bed3 SW-2Fl-Bed2 NW-3Fl-Bed4 NW-Bsmt OSB Fiber Saturation NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-Bath SE-1Fl-Kit1 SE-1Fl-Kit3 SW-1Fl-DR NE-2Fl-Mbath NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bath SW-2Fl-Hall SE-3Fl-Loft SE-Bsmt Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Figure 22. CZ 4A, MD-1, MC Readings for a 2-Year Period Summary results are shown in Figure 23, Figure 24, and Figure 25 for three test homes in Maryland, Climate Zone 4A (MD-2, MD-3, MD-4). The following observations can be made: OSB sheathing MC for most wall sections are less than 17% the first winter following construction (not all homes are occupied, use of installed humidifier may be employed); August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 22 Wall Moisture Testing

31 Moisture Content - % Sites MD-2 and MD-4 each have an outlier trending 5% or more above the rest of the sensors for an extended period of time. The reason for these outliers is unknown. It can be stipulated that there is an air leak present in the vicinity of these sensors; All OSB moisture contents decrease to less than % MC; The homes were unoccupied for the first winter and occupied for the second winter period; all homes have a humidifier installed and operating (the specific control of the humidifier is unknown in MD-2, MD-3, MD-4); and MD-3 shows the most remarkable change in the sheathing MC during the second heating season when occupied, even though the measured interior humidity was the same for both seasons. A comparison of the weather (see Figure 26) for each winter heating period (11-, -13) shows some variation but only about a 15% difference in total rainfall. 25 CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 8 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-Kit NW-1Fl-GrRm SE-1Fl-DnRm SE-1Fl-Kit SW-1Fl-Den NE-2Fl-Mbath NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bed2 SE-2Fl-Mbath SW-2Fl-Bed3 OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Average 11- winter indoor RH, 35% Average -13 winter indoor RH, 38% Figure 23. CZ 4A, MD-2, MC Readings for an 18-Month Period Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 23

32 Moisture Content - % Moisture Content - % 25 CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 9 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-GrRm SE-1Fl-Den SE-1Fl-Kit SW-1Fl-Den NE-2Fl-Mbath NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bed2 SE-2Fl-Laun SW-2Fl-Bed3 SE-3Fl-Loft OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Average 11- winter indoor RH, 47% Average -13 winter indoor RH, 48% Figure 24. CZ 4A, MD-3, MC Readings for a 19-Month Period CZ 4A - Maryland - Site - Wall Cavity Moisture Content NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-Kit1 NW-1Fl-Kit2 SE-1Fl-Bath SW-1Fl-DnRm NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Bath NW-2Fl-bed3 NW-2Fl-Mbath SE-2Fl-Mbed SW-2Fl-Bed2 SE-3Fl-Loft OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 5 Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Average 11- winter indoor RH, 32% Average -13 winter indoor RH, 34% Figure 25. CZ 4A, MD-4, MC Readings for an 18-Month Period August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 24 Wall Moisture Testing

33 Precipitation, Running Total for Period, inches Extertior Temperature, F Precipitation and Temperature Comparison - 2 Heating Seasons in CZ4 11- Precipitation -13 Precipitation 11- Temperature -13 Temperature Figure 26. Climate Zone 4 MD Test House Precipitation and Temperature Comparison Summary results for a test home in Delaware, Climate Zone 4A, are shown in Figure 27. The following observations can be made: imum MC levels of 15% immediately following construction and similar for the second season except for one measurement in a bathroom wall that was about 3% higher; All OSB moisture contents had summertime minimums of less than % MC; and One wall cavity (exterior facing garage wall in unconditioned garage) shows an increasing OSB sheathing MC progressing through the summer months where all other sensors in conditioned space remain somewhat constant. Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 25

34 Moisture Content - % 25 CZ 4A - Delaware - Site 11 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Average 11- winter indoor RH, 4% Average -13 winter indoor RH, 37% NE-Kit1 NE-Kit2 NE-Mbed NW-Mbath NW-Mbath NW-Gar SE-Bed3 SE-FmRm SW-Bed2a SW-Bed2b BsmtFlDeck roof deck OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Figure 27. CZ 4A, DE, MC Readings for a 14-Month Period Climate Zone 3 Summary results for two test homes in Alabama, Climate Zone 3, are shown in Figure 28 and Figure 29. The following observations can be made: Low MC measurements were recorded for all wall and roof sections (roofs are insulated with SPF at the deck); AL-2 test house has slightly higher MC readings in the house with higher indoor average humidity. Because walls in AL-2 house were insulated with ccspf, it is assumed that the drying is slowed in this house compared with the house with 1 inch of exterior foam sheathing; and MC readings are generally flat for the entire winter period. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 26 Wall Moisture Testing

35 Moisture Content - % Moisture Content - % CZ 3A - Alabama - Site 4 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type C - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x4, R13 Fiberglass Batts, gypsum/paint unless noted Average -13 winter indoor RH, 44% N-Bed3 N-LvRm E-Roof1 E-Roof2 E-LvRm E-DnRm S-Bed1 W-Roof1 W-Roof2 W-Roof-Truss W-Bed1 W-Mbath W-Bed2 OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 5 Figure 28. CZ 3A, AL-1, MC Readings for a 6-Month Period CZ 3A - Alabama - Site 5 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type G - OSB, 2x4, R18 ccspf, gypsum/paint unless noted Average -13 winter indoor RH, 5% N-Bed3 N-LvRm E-Roof1 E-Roof2 E-LvRm E-DnRm S-Bed1 W-Roof1 W-Roof2 W-Roof-Truss W-Bed1 W-Mbath W-Bed2 IntTstat Int-Mbath Outdoor OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 5 Figure 29. CZ 3A, AL-2, MC Readings for a 6-Month Period Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 27

36 Moisture Content - % Summary results for a test home in Texas, Climate Zone 3, are shown in Figure. The following observations can be made: Moisture contents for all wall and roof sheathing remain below % (this test house location is in a relatively drier area of the state); and Interior relative humidity is on the lower range of the test homes CZ 3A - Texas - Site 6 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Waal Type P - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R16 Open Cell Cavity Foam, gypsum/paint Roof sensors located in the underside of the roof sheathing buried in SPF Attic sensors located in truss framing of unvented attic space Average -13 winter indoor RH, 29% N-bath, stud N-Kit, stud N-Bed1 N-Mbath N-Bed1, stud E-Bed1-1 E-Bed1-2 E-Bed2 S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed1 W-Mbath W-Mbed2 W-Mbed, stud N-Roof1 N-Roof2 S-Roof1 S-Roof2 S-Roof3 Attic1 Attic2 OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 5 Figure. CZ 3A, TX, MC Readings for a 3.5-Month Period Climate Zone 2 Summary results for three test homes in Louisiana, Climate Zone 2, are shown in Figure 31, Figure 32, and Figure 33. The following observations can be made: Moisture contents for wall sections in all three homes are similar despite the significant difference in wall configuration; LA-2 home with exterior insulating sheathing shows the lowest sheathing MC of all test houses in this set but has the lowest interior RH as well; and All of these test homes show relatively little change over the heating season, although a significant portion of the data is missing due to equipment problems. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 28 Wall Moisture Testing

37 Moisture Content - % Moisture Content - % 25 CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 1 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type A - WRB, OSB, 2x4, R13 Fiberglass Batts, gypsum/paint Average -13 winter indoor RH, 56% E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed W-Kit W-Util, stud W-Util OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Figure 31. CZ 2A, LA-1, MC Readings for a 4.5-Month Period CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 2 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note: Wall Type B - 1/2" Foam, OSB, 2x4, R15 Spray Cellulose, gypsum/paint Average -13 winter indoor RH, 53% E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed W-Kit W-Util, stud W-Util OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 5 Figure 32. CZ 2A, LA-2, MC Readings for a 4.5-Month Period Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 29

38 Moisture Content - % 25 CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 3 - Wall Cavity Moisture Content Note:Wall Type I - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R24 Spray Rockwool, gypsum/paint East West - Reflective Wrb, OSB, 2x6, R24 Spray Rockwool, gypsum/paint Average -13 winter indoor RH, 63% E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed Crawl Floor W-DnRm W-Util, stud W-Util OSB Fiber Saturation Wood Fiber Saturation 15 5 Figure 33. CZ 2A, LA-3, MC Readings for a 4.5-Month Period Seasonal Average Data Summaries and Analysis The average seasonal moisture content for the different wall sections are plotted for each climate zone. The seasonal moisture contents are based on the daily average moisture content measurements for all available wall sections and across either one or two heating seasons. This summarized data allows for a quick overview of the performance of the wall systems by climate zone. Only data from the northerly facing walls are used because this orientation generally shows the highest, sustained moisture levels in the home and all other wall orientations would be equal or less in seasonal average levels. Where a single winter season data bar is shown, this indicates the first winter season following construction. Climate Zone 6 Climate zone 6 has the widest array of wall systems in the study as shown in Figure 34. Some of the wall sections have wood sheathing and others are sheathed with rigid foam board. In the cases of foam sheathing, the moisture content is read at the framing exterior edge. The seasonal data for wall sections is associated with interior relative humidity levels reported in Table 4. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs Wall Moisture Testing

39 Average Seasonal Moisture Content, % Climate Zone 6A - Moisture Content - North Wall (unless noted otherwise) "XPS 2X4 Damp Bl. FG (South) (E-MI1) Exterior OSB Sheathing 1"XPS 2X6 Damp Bl. FG (L-MI1) 1"XPS 2X6 1"ccSPF Damp Bl. FG (N-MI-1) 2"XPS 2X6 Damp Bl. FG (S-MI2) "XPS 2X4 Damp Bl. FG (South) (F-MI1) Seasonal imum Season Season Season -13 1"XPS 2X6 Damp Bl. FG (M-MI1) 1"XPS, 2X6, 1"ccSPF, Damp Bl. FG (O-MI-1) - 12/15-3/15-6/15-9/15 No Exterior OSB Sheathing (sensor in stud) 1"FF Foam 2x6 Wet Bl. Cell. (K-WI1) Figure 34. Climate Zone 6 Summary MC Data Table 4. Average Seasonal Interior House Relative Humidity for CZ 6 Test Walls Wall Type I.D. Interior RH E, L, N, F, M, O 11-32%; % S % K 11-46%; % Based on the seasonal moisture content of sheathing, the following summary conclusions are identified for walls with exterior foam: All wall configurations demonstrate capacity for drying during non-heating seasons. In walls without spray foam, it is suggested that the drying occurs to the inside. In walls with spray foam, the drying rate is reduced; however, moisture fluctuations are also less pronounced with lower winter peaks. periods show a drying in the wall cavity to an average of no more than 15% MC for all walls regardless of the winter peak MC in any wall section. OSB sheathing on 2x6 wall framing with 1 inch of exterior foam and without an interior vapor retarder is consistently reaching average moisture contents of over % during winter months suggesting that this wall configuration may not be appropriate for colder climate zones. It is Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 31

40 recommended to investigate the effect of a class-2 (e.g., Kraft faced batt) or variable ( smart ) vapor retarder to control interior vapor drive in the winter without overly restricting drying potential to the inside. A combination of 1 inch of exterior foam and an interior flash coat of closed spray foam is effective at controlling OSB moisture uptake from the interior vapor drive. However, this system would be susceptible to retaining moisture that penetrated the drainage plane as a result of the reduced drying rates. OSB sheathing in 2x6 walls with 2 inches of exterior foam without an interior vapor retarder showed high moisture content in the first winter following construction. Further monitoring results are needed to understand the summer drying and the interior vapor drive effect in the second winter without the effect of high construction moisture loads. South-facing 2x4 walls with 2 inches of exterior foam without interior vapor retarder consistently show low moisture content levels in OSB and framing. It is suggested that the solar vapor drive was effective at drying any construction moisture to the inside. Further study is needed to expand testing to include north facing exposure. Also, because builders may have a preference to use fiberglass batts with Kraft facing, monitoring of such walls to understand the impact on interior drying is needed. Because observed framing moisture content is always lower than OSB and because equilibrium moisture content of framing is always higher than OSB, the OSB is a more critical wall component than framing when evaluating moisture characteristics and effects. Climate Zone 5 Climate zone 5 also has a wide array of wall systems in the study as shown in Figure 35. All of the wall sections have wood sheathing on the exterior of the cavity and others are sheathed with rigid foam board. In the cases of foam sheathing, the moisture content is read at the framing exterior edge. The seasonal data for wall sections is associated with interior relative humidity levels as shown in Table 5. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 32 Wall Moisture Testing

41 Average Seasonal Moisture Content, % Climate Zone 5A - Moisture Content - North Wall 25 Seasonal imum Season -13 = 12/15-3/ X6 Dry Blown FG w/ 4 mil poly v.b. (X-IA1) 2X6 Dry Blown FG w/ 4 mil poly v.b. (X-IA2) 1"XPS Foam 2X6 1" cc SPF Wet Bl. Cell. (R-MI1&2) 1"XPS Foam 2X6 Wet Bl. Cell. (W-MI1&2) 1.5"XPS Foam 2X6 Plates 2x4 offset 1" cc SPF Wet Bl. Cell. (V-MI3) 1.5"XPS Foam 2X6 Plates offset 2x4 Wet Bl. Cell. (T-MI3) Figure 35. Climate Zone 5 Summary MC Data Table 5. Average Seasonal Interior House Relative Humidity for CZ 5 Test Walls Wall Type I.D. Interior RH X (IA1) % X (IA2) -13 4% R, W % V, T % Based on the seasonal moisture content of sheathing and the interior humidity, the following summary conclusions are identified: Given that no summer data has yet been analyzed, the summer drying potential for all wall configurations is needed. As with climate zone 6, drying is expected to below 15% MC. In walls without spray foam, drying is expected to occur to the inside. In walls with spray foam, the drying rate is expected to be reduced. In the first winter after construction, OSB sheathing on 2x6 wall framing with either 1 inch or 1.5 inches of exterior foam and without an interior vapor retarder reached average moisture contents of over %. data and second winter data are needed to uncouple the impact of construction moisture absorbed from wet-blown cellulose from the effects of seasonal vapor Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 33

42 Average Seasonal Moisture Content, % drive. Following the next winter data, it may be appropriate to investigate the effect of a class-2 (e.g., Kraft faced batt) or variable ( smart ) vapor retarder to control interior vapor drive in the winter without overly restricting drying potential to the inside. A combination of 1 inch of exterior foam and an interior flash coat of closed spray foam is effective at blocking moisture from wet-blown cellulose and controlling OSB moisture uptake from the interior vapor drive. However, subsequent drying data is needed to determine if this system would be susceptible to retaining moisture that penetrated the drainage plane as a result of the reduced drying rates. 2x6 construction with Class I vapor retarder (poly) showed low moisture content over the first winter. Continued monitoring is needed to have confidence in the initially observed performance. Climate Zone 4C Only one wall type (2x6 plates with offset 2x4 studs) over a single winter season is available from climate zone 4C as shown in Figure 36. An interior relative humidity of 47% was measured in the second of the two test homes (no RH data is available for the first test home (WA1) for the first heating season). Climate Zone 4C - Moisture Content - North Wall 25 Seasonal imum Season -13 = 12/15-3/ X6 Plates offset 2x4 Blown FG (Q-WA1) 2x6 Plates offset 2x4 Blown FG (Q-WA2) Figure 36. Climate Zone 4C Summary MC Data August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 34 Wall Moisture Testing

43 Based on the limited available seasonal moisture content of sheathing and the interior relative humidity, the following observations are identified: Even with this first winter period following construction, the average MC is just over % indicating that the wall system is sufficiently robust as designed and installed. However, the moisture response for this wall system (no vapor retarder or exterior foam) appears dependent on interior relative humidity in the house. For the conditions where RH is measured to be high, the OSB moisture content approached its fiber saturation point for a short period of time. Given that no summer data has yet been analyzed, the summer drying potential for all wall configurations is needed. As with climate zone 5, drying is expected to below 15% MC. Climate Zone 4 Climate zone 4 has a wider array of homes with a 2x6 wall system as shown in Figure 37 (except for one test wall Type U double 2x6). This allows for a larger comparison of the same wall system in different homes. Figure 37 shows all of the homes and the data through two heating seasons. All of the wall sections have wood sheathing on the exterior of the 2x6 cavity. The seasonal data for wall sections is associated with interior house relative humidity levels as shown in Table 6. Figure 37. Climate Zone 4 Summary MC Data Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 35

44 Table 6. Average Seasonal Interior House Relative Humidity for CZ 4 Test Walls Wall Type I.D. Interior RH H (MD1), U 11-44%, % H (MD2) 11-34%, % H (MD3) 11-48%, % H (MD4) 11-31%, % H (DE1) 11-4%, % Based on the seasonal moisture content of sheathing and the interior humidity, the following summary conclusions are identified: All of the 2x6 walls tested demonstrated a very similar range of performance with the winter peak sheathing moisture contents below % and the average winter moisture content of below 16% (excluding wall type U). While the much thicker fully-insulated cavity wall (double 2x6 wall type U) showed an increase in moisture content of approximately 4-5%, the overall performance did not reach levels that would lead to rejecting this wall system. There is no clear relationship between the interior house relative humidity levels and observed OSB moisture content (e.g., MD2 and MD3 have a 15% difference between interior RH, but have nearly identical OSB moisture contents). It should be noted that wall cavities were effectively sealed in all four Maryland houses, limiting bulk air leakage interior moisture loads to the diffusion vapor drive. time drying to moisture contents below % is observed in all cases indicating excellent drying capabilities for this wall system. The wall design for climate zone 4, 2x6 framing, air sealing, and no interior vapor retarder other than painted gypsum, demonstrates cyclic moisture characteristics that in typical service, leads to a robust wall design. Climate Zone 3 Climate zone 3 includes three houses each with a different wall system as shown in Figure 38. While data is available only for a single winter season, OSB moisture content for all walls is below 15%. The seasonal data for wall sections is associated with interior house relative humidity levels as shown in Table 7. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 36 Wall Moisture Testing

45 Average Seasonal Moisture Content, % Climate Zone 3A - Moisture Content - North Wall 25 Seasonal imum Season -13 = 12/15-3/ " XPS Foam 2X4 FG Batts (C-AL1) 2x4 Closed Cell Foam (G-AL2) 2X6 Open Cell Foam (P-TX1) Figure 38. Climate Zone 3 Summary MC Data Table 7. Average Seasonal Interior Humidity for CZ 3 Test Walls Wall Type I.D. Interior RH C % G -13 5% P % Based on the seasonal moisture content of sheathing and the interior humidity, the following summary conclusions are identified: During the winter season, all tested walls were effective at controlling OSB moisture content (9-14%), although each wall relies on a different mechanism for managing interior vapor drive. Additional data is needed for summer season to understand the effect of a reverse vapor drive in hot climates; and In the Texas test site, the dry climate (and lower interior humidity levels) demonstrates virtually no potential for moisture problems with the open cell SPF. It should be noted that an HRV was installed in this test house. Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 37

46 Average Seasonal Moisture Content, % Climate Zone 2 Climate zone 2 includes three houses each with a different wall system as shown in Figure 39. The seasonal data for wall sections is associated with interior house relative humidity levels as shown in Table 8. Climate Zone 2A - Moisture Content - North Wall 25 Seasonal imum Season -13 Season = 12/15-3/15 = 6/15-9/ X4 FG Batts (A-LA1) 1/2"Foam 2x4 Spray Cellulose (B-LA2) 2X6 Spray RockWool (I-LA3) Figure 39. Climate Zone 2 Summary MC Data Table 8. Average Seasonal House for CZ 2 Test Walls Wall Type I.D. Interior RH A % B % I % Based on the seasonal moisture content of sheathing and the interior humidity, the following summary conclusions are identified for tested walls in climate zone 2: All of the tested wall configurations demonstrate a very similar range of performance in the summer with the OSB moisture content at below %. During winter, all walls exhibited an increase in OSB moisture content with the average moisture content levels at or less than 16% and peak sheathing moisture contents of less than %. The 2x6 wall system shows a slightly higher MC level in winter (approaching %). The interior relative humidity is measured highest of all test homes and has an infiltration rate of about half of the other two homes in CZ 2. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 38 Wall Moisture Testing

47 All of the tested wall systems demonstrate minor cyclic moisture characteristics and appear to be robust designs in typical service in the climate. Condensation Resistance Analysis One moisture performance characteristic analyzed for wall cavities is the potential for condensation, particularly at the wood sheathing surface. Condensation at cold surfaces can occur when warmer moist air leaks or diffuses through interior wall materials to the cavity. Condensation at the sheathing surface is of most interest since that is where the moisture can be absorbed into the wood material and lead to performance and durability problems. Condensation is possible when the dew point temperature of the air is higher than the surface temperature of the sheathing. In the heating season, the interior air moisture characteristics directly affect the wall cavity moisture characteristics and especially the potential for increased moisture content of the OSB sheathing depending on the characteristics of the interior vapor retarder. The configuration of the wall cavity including interior vapor retarders, cavity insulation materials, and sheathing materials will affect the drying potential when moisture enters the wall cavity by either air leakage or diffusion. A methodology to determine the potential for the sheathing interior cavity surface to have condensation occur uses the calculation of the surface temperature given exterior and interior temperature conditions. The sheathing interior cavity surface temperature is based on the relative insulation levels to the interior and exterior of the sheathing surface at the interior of the cavity (see Figure 4). For the cavity path, the temperature at any surface in the path is derived from the formula: T surface a = [( sum R values a o sum R values i o ) DT i o ] + T o where: T surface a temperature of the surface of interest R values a o sum of the path R value from surface of interest to the exterior R values i o sum of the path R value from the inside surface to the outside surface DT i o T o air temperature difference from the inside to the outside outside air temperature Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 39

48 R OSB R i film R extinsulation R gypsum R siding R cavity R o film T inside T outside T i surface Figure 4. Condensing Surface Calculation Parameters For each test site, using a design methodology developed through the Building America program, the monthly average outdoor temperature is used as the outdoor temperature reference and the daily average measured indoor temperature and relative humidity is used for the indoor temperature estimate and for the calculation of the dew point temperature. The wall system configuration is based on the typical wall system(s) for the test site. These theoretical calculations are shown graphically followed by charts of measured data of condensation potential (calculated when the dew point temperature is higher than the surface temperature of the sheathing, shown as negative values on the charts). For the cold climates Figure 41 through Figure 47 compare the theoretical condensation potential (based on the wall construction, average monthly exterior temperatures, and assumed indoor environmental conditions) with the measured results from the first full heating season following construction for the test homes with available data. The climate zone 5 test houses in MI (Figure 43 to Figure 45) indicate a potential for condensation for most of the winter season in wall sections that do not have the ccspf on the interior of the sheathing. For other wall sections with ccspf, the condensation potential is limited both in frequency and duration. Note that in cavities without ccspf but with exterior foam, the measurements are taken in the studs and do not exhibit any potential for condensation throughout the winter period. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 4 Wall Moisture Testing

49 Cavity Temperature minus Dew Point Temperature - F Temperature/Dew Point Temperature, F 7 Condensation Potential at Wood Sheathing, Michigan Test Site Condensation potential between the dew point Temperature (green) and the wall cavity at the sheathing (red). Interior dew point based on measured data Historical Avg. Outdoor T, F Wall, 2x6+1, FG, OSB, F Wall, 2x4+2, FG, OSB, F 7F/34%RH Actual Avg. Outdoor T (11-), F Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Monthly Average Data Figure 41. MI Test Site, Theoretical Condensation Potential CZ 6A - Michigan - Site 21 - Wall Cavity Condensation Potential E-LvRm1 E-LvRm2 E-Mbath N-DnRm, exp (L) N-Mbath, stud (O) N-MBath, stud, exp (M) N-Mbed N-Mbed, exp (L) S-1Fl-Bed2 S-2Fl-2x4+2, exp (E) S-2Fl-2x4+2, stud, exp (F) S-2Fl-Stair W-Mbath Values less than (red line) indicated the potential for condensation Note: Wall Type N - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type O- 1" XPS, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type L - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x6, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type M - 1" XPS, 2x6, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type E - 2" XPS, OSB, 2x4, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type F - 2" XPS, 2x4, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Figure 42. MI Test Site, Measured Condensation Potential Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 41

50 Cavity Temperature minus Dew Point Temperature - F Cavity Temperature minus Dew Point Temperature - F 6 CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 17 - Wall Cavity Condensation Potential Values less than (red line) indicated the potential for condensation Note: Wall Type R (solid line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, 1" ccspf flash, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type W (dash line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint N-Kit 1 N-Kit 2 N-stair N-Mbath, no spf N-Mbath E-DnRm, no spf 1 E-DnRm 1 E-DnRm 2 E-DnRm, no spf 2 E-2Fl-Bed S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed W-2Fl-bed Figure 43. MI Test Site (1), CZ5, Measured Condensation Potential 6 CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 18 - Wall Cavity Condensation Potential Values less than (red line) indicated the potential for condensation Note: Wall Type R (solid line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, 1" ccspf flash, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type W (dash line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint N-Kit 1 N-Kit 2 N-stair N-Mbath, no spf N-Mbath E-DnRm, no spf 1 E-DnRm 1 E-DnRm, no spf 2 E-DnRm 2 E-2Fl-Bed S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed W-2Fl-bed Figure 44. MI Test Site (2), CZ5, Measured Condensation Potential August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 42 Wall Moisture Testing

51 Temperature/Dew Point Temperature, F Cavity Temperature minus Dew Point Temperature - F 15 CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 19 - Wall Cavity Condensation Potential Note: Wall Type T - 1-1/2" Foam, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset framing, 1" ccspf, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type V - 1-1/2" Foam, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset framing, 1" ccspf, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Special Note: 16"x24" OSB plates for testing Values less than (red line) indicated the potential for condensation N-DnRm, osb, no spf N-DnRm N-2Fl-Bed2 E-DnRm, osb, no spf E-DnRm S-Mbath S-2Fl Bed4 W-2Fl Bed2 N-DnRm, stud N-Mbed E-LvRm E-DnRm, stud E-2Fl-Bed4 S-LvRm W-Mbed Figure 45. MI Test Site (3), CZ5, Measured Condensation Potential 8 Theoretical Condensation Potential at Wood Sheathing Maryland Test Site Condensation potential between the dew point Temperature (green) and the wall cavity at the sheathing (red). Interior dew point based on measured data Historical Avg. Outdoor T, F Wall, 2x6, R23FG, OSB, F Wall, 2x6, R46FG, OSB, F 71F/47%RH Actual Avg. Outdoor T (11-), F Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr Monthly Average Data Figure 46. MD Test Site, Theoretical Condensation Potential Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 43

52 Cavity Temperature minus Dew Point Temperature - F 35 CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 7 - Wall Cavity Condensation Potential season 2 had % more HDD than season Values less than (red line) indicated the potential for condensation Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type U - WRB, OSB, (2) 2x6, R46 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NW-1Fl-Hall-R46 NW-1Fl-GrRm SE-1Fl-Kit2 SE-1Fl-DR NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Hall SE-2Fl-Bed3 SW-2Fl-Bed2 NW-3Fl-Bed4 NW-Bsmt NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-Bath SE-1Fl-Kit1 SE-1Fl-Kit3 SW-1Fl-DR NE-2Fl-Mbath NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bath SW-2Fl-Hall SE-3Fl-Loft SE-Bsmt Figure 47. MD Test Site, Measured Condensation Potential For the wall construction in the climate, all wall systems have a theoretical condensation potential, based on the formulaic approach outlined above, for the majority of the heating season except for the MI test house wall section with two inches of exterior insulation over 2x4 framing. The measured data for the homes with available data shows that the actual condensation potential based on the exterior and interior conditions is sporadic and with short periods where condensation could occur. In the WI test site, although the limited data limits conclusions, it appears that the damp spray cellulose extends the drying time of the wall system following construction. For comparison, interior temperature and relative humidity conditions can be seen for each site in Appendices A and B; however, generally the measured interior conditions are lower in temperature and relative humidity than the 71 F/44% RH conditions used in the condensation potential calculations. Based on the available data thus far in the monitoring, simplified condensation potential calculations using assumed indoor and historical average outdoor conditions, in all cases, tend to over predict actual dew point conditions occurring within the wall assembly. Use of this design metric an in particular to design walls with no potential for condensation based on the given assumptions, may in many cases lead to elimination of wall designs that have been successfully used for many years. Analysis Based on ASHRAE 16-9 Prior to this study, one of the home builders in Ohio reported that while repairing walls with buckled OSB following the winter of 9, a mold like substance was often present on the interior face of the OSB panels. To investigate the potential for mold growth in the test homes monitored in this study, the August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 44 Wall Moisture Testing

53 11/27/11 12/11/11 12/25/11 1/8/12 1/22/12 2/5/12 2/19/12 3/4/12 3/18/12 4/1/12 4/15/12 4/29/12 5/13/12 5/27/12 6//12 6/24/12 7/8/12 7/22/12 8/5/12 8/19/12 9/2/12 9/16/12 9//12 /14/12 /28/12 11/11/12 11/25/12 12/9/12 12/23/12 1/6/13 1//13 2/3/13 2/17/13 3/3/13 3/17/13 3/31/13 Wall Cavity I.D. observed environmental conditions of the wall cavity are evaluated using the threshold established by ASHRAE Standard 16-9 Criteria for Moisture-Control Design Analysis in Buildings (ASHRAE, 9). Standard 16 provides temperatures and associated relative humidity ranges necessary to minimize mold growth on building envelope components (Table 9). Table 9. Standard 16 Condition Criteria Necessary to imize Mold Growth Duration Relative Humidity When Temperature is in Range days < 8% RH 41 F < T < 4 F The wall cavity temperatures and relative humidity levels are evaluated for the test sites with available data according to these criteria with an example result shown in Figure 48. For each test site, the ASHRAE 16 Section 6.1 criteria was calculated based on the -day running averages at the wall cavity sheathing surface. The charts plot the instances (non-zero values) when the criteria were exceeded. Each wall cavity, and including some indoor and outdoor air conditions, was plotted using a unique ID for the wall cavity. For example in Figure 48 wall cavity ID [18] (vertical axis) exceeded the ASHRAE 16 Section 6.1 criteria for a continuous 12 week period from mid-february to early May (horizontal axis). CZ 6A - Michigan - ASHRAE Standard 16, Sec. 6.1 Criteria Exceeded at Sheathing Note: All walls 1"XPS, OSB, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint unless noted. Walls identified with 'stud' do not have OSB sheathing, MC is in the stud near the sheathing. (gridlines at 1 week periods) [1]E-LvRm1 [2]E-LvRm2 [3]E-Mbathwin [7]N-DnRm, exp [9]N-Mbath, stud []N-MBathTub, stud, exp [11]N-Mbed [12]N-Mbed, exp [14]S-1FlBed [15]S-2Fl2x4+2, exp [16]S-2Fl2x4+2, stud, exp [17]S-2Fl2x6+1 [18]W-MBathshwr [8]N-Garage Figure 48. MI Test Site, ASHRAE 16, S6.1 Duration When Criteria Exceeded in Cavity An analysis for the Alabama test site shows no periods when the cavity conditions exceed the ASHRAE 16 criteria for Section 6.1, Conditions Necessary to imize Mold Growth. Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 45

54 It is interesting to note that in one case the outdoor air exceeded the ASHRAE 16 standard conditions outlined in Table 9 and shown in Figure 48. However, this condition occurred prior to the heating season and occurs prior to any wall cavity exceeding the same criterion. Based on this preliminary data, many walls cycle through a period when the ASHRAE 16 criteria are exceeded. There is; however, little consistency among wall sections within a home, including orientation, and the length of time that the criteria is exceeded. Furthermore, there is little evidence at this time to correlate the moisture criteria with actual wall system performance risk and hence the relevance of such criteria for wall design purposes is of unknown value at this time. Wall Cavity Inspection In April 13, following the winter season reported herein, the builder of the Maryland test houses undertook an investigation to visually evaluate the wall sections where the highest moisture contents were recorded in a winter period. One such wall section was a double 2x6 wall with full-fill blown fiberglass cavity insulation (Figure 49 and Figure 5). This wall section was otherwise constructed identical to the 2x6 walls in the house. Figure 49. Insulation Removed from R-46 Wall for Observation Figure 5. Moisture Sensor Located in Wall Section The builder cut open wall sections near the sensors, insulation was moved, the sheathing visually inspected for moisture effects, and the moisture content of the wood sheathing was recorded (see Figure 51). August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 46 Wall Moisture Testing

55 Figure 51. Moisture Meter Reading Correlated with Sensor The visual inspection revealed pristine conditions of the OSB sheathing after two years of service with interior humidity over 4% during the winter heating periods. The double 2x6 wall section inspected had recorded sheathing moisture contents of % in the winter months with summer drying to about % MC. Other wall sections with over 16% MC were evaluated in a similar manner, all with identical positive results. General Observations Based on Seasonal Measured Data The major moisture characteristics and performance factors are generally summarized as follows. Indoor Humidity The indoor relative humidity varied widely between test homes and by climate zone. The average indoor relative humidity for climate zones 3A through 6A is relatively consistent, approximately 4%. Refer to Figure 52 for the individual homes where data is available ( of 22 homes), for a comparison of the winter indoor average humidity. Appendix D contains charts of the daily temperature and relative humidity for each test home where data is available. Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 47

56 Figure 52. Indoor Relative Humidity Averages for Test Sites by Climate Zone OSB Moisture Content Sheathing moisture content seasonal average levels were all less than the fiber saturation point (estimated at 26%) at all times over the monitoring period except for three wall types. The houses containing these three wall types are in the first year following construction and are expected to reach a lower equilibrium in subsequent heating periods following the summer drying period. Figure 53 summarizes these moisture content measurements. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 48 Wall Moisture Testing

57 Sheathing Moisture Content, percent Highest Seasonal Average Sheathing Moisture Content for Wall Type During the Same Period 35 All measurements in first winter following construction A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Wall Type ID Figure 53. Wall Cavity Seasonal Average Moisture Content The following observations can be made from the summary moisture content data (refer to Table 2 for description of wall configurations): All high performance wall systems tested in climate zones 2A and 3A are at or below 15% MC in the worst case wall orientation during heating periods; All high performance wall systems tested in climate zones 4A and 4C are at or below % MC in the worst case wall orientation during heating periods; High performance wall systems H, R, and V tested in climate zone 5A are at or below % MC in the worst case wall orientation during heating periods; High performance wall systems W and T tested in climate zone 5A are over 25% MC in the worst case wall orientation during heating periods but are in the first heating period following construction, more data is needed to assess their performance; High performance wall systems E, F, M, N, and O tested in climate zone 6A are below % MC in the worst case wall orientation during heating periods; and High performance wall systems L and S tested in climate zone 6A are over % MC in the worst case wall orientation during heating periods and will require further data to more fully assess the long term moisture performance. Dew Point Calculations Comparisons of simplified dew point calculations with measured moisture characteristics indicate little correlation that supports use of this approach as a primary design tool for wall systems. Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 49

58 ASHRAE 16 Criteria Most wall cavities in the northern climates exceeded the ASHRAE 16 Moisture Performance Evaluation Criteria for at least some period of time. There is no evident correlation between the criteria and identified risk; and in particular for wall systems that historically have been used successfully in a given climate zone. Wall orientation Higher sheathing moisture content levels were typically observed in walls facing north and east (refer to Figure 11 as an example; also refer to Table for orientation of walls with highest moisture content). This result is attributed to the difference in direct solar radiation. Summary Conclusions Light frame wall cavities in 22 homes were instrumented with sensors to record temperature, relative humidity at the interior cavity side of the wood structural sheathing, and the moisture content in the wood sheathing. Test homes are located in climate zones 2A through 6A, and 4C, all moist climates (except for the Texas site that is borderline dry) based on the DOE climate zone map. The homes are all intended to be occupied during the study period. Temperature and humidity sensors were also located within the living space and on the exterior of the home. House features such as wall configuration, ventilation system and control, and infiltration test results were catalogued for each home. Table summarizes the winter season results for all wall types and climate zone. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 5 Wall Moisture Testing

59 Table. Overall Summary of Highest Average Sheathing Moisture Content Average Sheathing Moisture Average Indoor Wall State Outdoor Content (%) CZ Ref. + ID Temperature Relative Average (D) imum (D) F Humidity Temperature A LA % (E) 16 (W) B LA2 2A 68 53% (N) 13 (N) I LA % (N) 19 (N) C AL % (N) 13 (N) G AL2 3A 76 5% (N) 14 (N) P TX % 39 (N) (N) H 68 41% (NW) 17 (NW) MD1 U 68 41% (NW) 23 (NW) H MD2 7 38% (NW) 21 (NE) 4A H MD % (NW) 21 (NE) H MD4 7 35% (NE) 16 (NE) H DE % (N) 17 (N) Q WA1 n/a n/a n/a 17 (**) 19 (**) Q WA % (**) 24 (**) 4C Q n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a WA3 D n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a X IA % 26 (NE) 11 (NE) X IA2 67 4% (NE) 13 (NE) R 63 38% (E,S) 23 (S) MI1 W 63 38% (N) 37 (N) 5A R 65 32% 51 (N,E) 22 (N,E,S) MI2 W 65 32% (E) 37 (E) T 59 38% (N) 33 (N) MI3 V 59 38% (N,E,W) 19 (N,E,W) J 73 43% (E) 14 (E) WI1* K 73 43% (N) 15 (N) N 68 32% (N) 19 (N) O 68 32% (E) (E) L 6A 68 32% (N) 25 (N) MI1 M 68 32% (N) 16 (N) E 68 32% (S) 15 (S) F 68 32% (S) 11 (S) S MI % (W) 28 (W) CZ Climate Zone; (D) compass direction wall faces; n/a data not available *Limited data available; **no sensor orientation map available The wall system moisture performance results presented here represent actual field measurements in occupied homes. This data demonstrates both the cyclic nature of the wall cavity moisture characteristics and the maximum sheathing moisture content that might be expected when the interior Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 51

60 humidity conditions are generally near the averages for these homes (i.e., high interior moisture loads could skew these results). Based on the monitoring data available to date, the following observations can be made: A wide range of interior home relative humidity levels is observed during winter season. Based on the available dataset, no definitive trend has been identified between the observed relative humidity level and ventilation method used in the house. Similarly, no definitive trend was observed between air-tightness (ACH5) and winter indoor relative humidity. The winter relative humidity was somewhat higher in Climate Zones 2A and 3A compared to other climate zones. The moisture performance of OSB sheathing is more critical than that of the framing. In walls with exterior foam, spring/summer drying is observed. It is suggested that the primary direction for this drying is to the inside. 2x6 walls with 1 inch to 1.5 inches of exterior foam sheathing and without an interior vapor retarder may not be appropriate for colder climate zones (5 and higher). It is recommended to investigate the effect of a variable ( smart ) vapor retarder (e.g., Kraft paper) to control vapor drive from the interior in the winter. A combination of 1 inch of exterior foam and an interior flash coat of closed spray foam is effective at controlling OSB moisture uptake from the interior vapor drive. However, this system would be susceptible to retaining moisture that penetrated the drainage plane as a result of the reduced drying rates. OSB sheathing in 2x6 walls with 2 inches of exterior foam without an interior vapor retarder showed high moisture content in the first winter following construction. Further monitoring results are needed to understand the summer drying and the interior vapor drive effect in the second winter without the effect of high construction moisture loads. South-facing 2x4 walls with 2 inches of exterior foam without interior vapor retarder consistently show low moisture content levels in OSB and framing suggesting that the solar vapor drive was effective at drying any construction moisture to the inside. Further study is needed to expand testing to include north-facing exposure. Damp-sprayed cellulose used in combination with exterior foam sheathing results in high initial OSB moisture content. Continued monitoring is needed to better understand the long-term performance of these types of wall systems. 2x6 construction in climate zones 4 and 4C (without a vapor retarder) and 5 (with a vapor retarder) showed good overall performance. The 2x6 walls without a vapor retarder showed significant seasonal fluctuations in OSB moisture. In some homes, there appears to be a trend indicating a relationship between the interior home RH levels and the wall moisture content. In homes where an air-sealed drywall is installed, this trend was not observed. The 2x6 walls with an interior vapor barrier showed reduced and more stable moisture content levels during the winter. A strategy for controlling interior vapor drive in 2x6 walls in climate zones 4C and 4 may be recommended if the design objective is to limit the moisture content fluctuations. August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 52 Wall Moisture Testing

61 A visual inspection of OSB in 2x6 walls in climate zone 4 (Site 7 MD1) following two heating seasons of service did not indicate any moisture damage or visual effects (the measured moisture content of the inspected walls reached percent (Figure 22)). A range of energy-efficient wall designs tested in climate zones 2 and 3 indicates acceptable performance for all monitored wall types. As with colder climate zones, there appears to be a relationship between the interior home RH and the wall OSB moisture content for walls without an interior vapor retarder. Based on comparison of monitored results with analytical calculations, relying on simplified condensation potential calculations in wall design can lead to significant over predicting of condensation occurrence. Given the extensive sensor installation and wide array of wall types and climates, continued monitoring is recommended to provide a continuous data set of wall moisture characteristics. Analysis of select wall assemblies indicates that moisture performance criteria established in ASHRAE 16 is often exceeded. Additional evaluation of these criteria is needed to better understand the risk associated with exceeding the established limits. Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 53

62 Bibliography APA Technical Topics, Moisture-Related Dimensional Stability, APA-The Engineered Wood Association, 6. ASHRAE. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 16-9, Criteria for Moisture-Control Design Analysis in Buildings. Atlanta, GA: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc., 9, including Addendum C, June. Building Science Corporation; DOE Building America Program, (7 (rev.)). Guide to Insulating Sheathing, Building Science Corporation, Westford, MA. Carll, Charles; Highley, Terry (1999). Decay of Wood and Wood-Based Products Above Ground in Buildings, Paper originally presented at the Third ASTM Symposium on Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS): Innovations and Solutions to Industry Challenges, American Society for Testing and Materials. Carll, Charles; Wiedenhoeft, Alex C. (9). Moisture-Related Properties of Wood and the Effects of Moisture on Wood and Wood Products, from Moisture Control in Buildings: the key factors in mold prevention, chapter 4, 2nd ed., West Conshohocken, PA, ASTM International. Clausen, C.; Haughton, L.; Murphy, C. (3). Evaluating Wood-Based Composites for Incipient Fungal Decay With Immunodiagnostic Wood Decay Test, United States Department of Agriculture Forest Products Laboratory, FPL-GTR-142. Drumheller, S. Craig; Carll, Charles (). Effect of Cladding Systems on Moisture Performance of Wood- Framed Walls in a Mixed Humid Climate, Paper originally presented at the Thermal Performance of the Exterior Envelopes of Whole Buildings XI International Conference, December. DuPont. DuPont Tyvek HomeWrap Physical Properties Data Sheet. DuPont. [Online] 7. [Cited: June 25,.] 531_HW_Prod_Prop.pdf. Forest Products Laboratory (FPL), U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. (). Wood Handbook Wood as an Engineered Material, FPL, Madison, WI. Haughton, Lonnie; Murphy, Colin, (3). Performance of OSB and Plywood Structural Panels, Interface Technical Journal, RCI, Inc. Raleigh, NC. IECC, International Energy Conservation Code, International Code Council (ICC), Country Club Hills, IL. James, William L., Electric Moisture Meters for Wood, Forest Products Laboratory, General Technical Report FPL-GTR-6. Lstiburek, Joseph, Ph.D., P. Eng., Fellow ASHRAE, Confusion About Diffusion, Insight-49, May 11 (rev.), August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 54 Wall Moisture Testing

63 NAHB Research Center. (April ). Final Technical Report: High-R Walls for Remodeling Wall Cavity Moisture Monitoring. National Institute of Standards & Technology. Voluntary Product Standard PS2-4, Performance Standard for Wood-Based Structural-Use Panels. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 4. Rowell, Roger M., Moisture properties, from Handbook of Wood Chemistry and Wood Composites, Chapter 4, Boca Raton, FL, CRC Press, 5. The Dow Chemical Company. North America - Weathermate Plus - Housewrap. DOW Building Solutions. [Online]. [Cited: June 28,.] U.S. Department of Energy. U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. U.S. Department of Energy. [Online] June 6, 6. [Cited: June 22,.] Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 55

64 Temperature - F Temperature - F Appendix A Wall Cavity Temperature Charts CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 1 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type A - WRB, OSB, 2x4, R13 Fiberglass Batts, gypsum/paint E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed W-Kit W-Util, stud W-Util CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 2 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type B - 1/2" Foam, OSB, 2x4, R15 Spray Cellulose, gypsum/paint E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed W-Kit W-Util, stud W-Util August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 56 Wall Moisture Testing

65 Temperature - F Temperature - F 1 CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 3 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type I - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R24 Spray Rockwool, gypsum/paint East West - Reflective Wrb, OSB, 2x6, R24 Spray Rockwool, gypsum/paint E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed Crawl Floor W-DnRm W-Util, stud W-Util CZ 3A - Alabama - Site 4 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type C - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x4, R13 Fiberglass Batts, gypsum/paint unless noted N-Bed3 N-LvRm E-Roof1 E-Roof2 E-LvRm E-DnRm S-Bed1 W-Roof1 W-Roof2 W-Roof-Truss W-Bed1 W-Mbath W-Bed2 Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 57

66 Temperature - F Temperature - F CZ 3A - Alabama - Site 5 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type G - OSB, 2x4, R18 ccspf, gypsum/paint unless noted N-Bed3 N-LvRm E-Roof1 E-Roof2 E-LvRm E-DnRm S-Bed1 W-Roof1 W-Roof2 W-Roof-Truss W-Bed1 W-Mbath W-Bed CZ 3A - Texas - Site 6 - Wall Cavity Temperature N-bath, stud N-Bed1 N-Bed1, stud E-Bed1-2 S-Mbed W-Mbed1 W-Mbed2 N-Roof1 S-Roof1 S-Roof3 Under Slab Attic1 N-Kit, stud N-Mbath E-Bed1-1 E-Bed2 S-LvRm W-Mbath W-Mbed, stud N-Roof2 S-Roof2 Concrete Slab Duct Attic Note: Waal Type P - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R16 Open Cell Cavity Foam, gypsum/paint Roof sensors located in the underside of the roof sheathing buried in SPF Attic sensors located in truss framing of unvented attic space August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 58 Wall Moisture Testing

67 Temperature - F Temperature - F 14 CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 7 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type U - WRB, OSB, (2) 2x6, R46 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-Hall-R46 NW-1Fl-Bath NW-1Fl-GrRm NW-1Fl-Roof SE-1Fl-Kit1 SE-1Fl-Kit2 SE-1Fl-Kit3 SE-1Fl-DR SW-1Fl-DR NE-2Fl-Mbed NE-2Fl-Mbath NW-2Fl-Hall NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bed3 SE-2Fl-Bath SW-2Fl-Bed2 SW-2Fl-Hall NE-3Fl-Attic NW-3Fl-Bed4 SE-3Fl-Loft NW-Bsmt SE-Bsmt CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 8 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-Kit NW-1Fl-GrRm SE-1Fl-DnRm SE-1Fl-Kit SW-1Fl-Den NE-2Fl-Mbath NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bed2 SE-2Fl-Mbath SW-2Fl-Bed3 Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 59

68 Temperature - F Temperature - F CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 9 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-GrRm SE-1Fl-Den SE-1Fl-Kit SW-1Fl-Den NE-2Fl-Mbath NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bed2 SE-2Fl-Laun SW-2Fl-Bed3 SE-3Fl-Loft CZ 4A - Maryland - Site - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-Kit1 NW-1Fl-Kit2 SE-1Fl-Bath SW-1Fl-DnRm NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Bath NW-2Fl-bed3 NW-2Fl-Mbath SE-2Fl-Mbed SW-2Fl-Bed2 SE-3Fl-Loft August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 6 Wall Moisture Testing

69 Temperature - F Temperature - F CZ 4A - Delaware - Site 11 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-Brkfst NE-Kitch NE-Mbed NW-Mbath NW-MBathSh NW-Gar SE-Bed3 SE-FamRm SW-Bed2 SW-Bed2b BsmtFlDeck roof deck CZ 4C - Washington - Site 12 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Q - WRB, OSB, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset studs, R24, gypsum/paint sensor 9 sensor 1 sensor 2 sensor 3 sensor 4 sensor 5 sensor 6 sensor 7 sensor 8 Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 61

70 Temperature - F Temperature - F CZ 4C - Washington - Site 13 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Q - WRB, OSB, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset studs, R24, gypsum/paint Sensor7 Sensor8 Sensor4 Sensor5 Sensor6 Sensor1 Sensor2 Sensor3 Sensor9 Sensor Sensor11 Sensor CZ 5A - Iowa - Site 15 - Wall Cavity Temperature N-Mbed1 N-Mbed2 N-Mbath E-FamRm E-Mbed E-Laun S-Bath S-Bed2 W-Bed Note: Wall Type X - OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, interior v.b., gypsum/paint August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 62 Wall Moisture Testing

71 Temperature - F Temperature - F CZ 5A - Iowa - Site 16 - Wall Cavity Temperature N-BsmtBed N-BsmtRec1 N-BsmtRec2 N-FamRm N-Kit N-Mbed E-BsmtBath E-Mbath E-Mbed S-Bath S-Bed2 W-Kit W-Laun 5 4 Note: Wall Type X - OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, interior v.b., gypsum/paint CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 17 - Wall Cavity Temperature N-Kit 1 N-Kit 2 N-stair N-Mbath, no spf N-Mbath E-DnRm, no spf 1 E-DnRm 1 E-DnRm 2 E-DnRm, no spf 2 E-2Fl-Bed S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed W-2Fl-bed 5 4 Note: Wall Type R (solid line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, 1" ccspf flash, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type W (dash line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 63

72 Temperature - F Temperature - F CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 18 - Wall Cavity Temperature N-Kit 1 N-Kit 2 N-stair N-Mbath, no spf N-Mbath E-DnRm, no spf 1 E-DnRm 1 E-DnRm, no spf 2 E-DnRm 2 E-2Fl-Bed S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed W-2Fl-bed 5 4 Note: Wall Type R (solid line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, 1" ccspf flash, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type W (dash line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 19 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type T - 1-1/2" Foam, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset framing, 1" ccspf, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type V - 1-1/2" Foam, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset framing, 1" ccspf, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Special Note: 16"x24" OSB plates for testing N-DnRm, osb, no spf N-DnRm N-2Fl-Bed2 E-DnRm, osb, no spf E-DnRm S-Mbath S-2Fl Bed4 W-2Fl Bed2 N-DnRm, stud N-Mbed E-LvRm E-DnRm, stud E-2Fl-Bed4 S-LvRm W-Mbed August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 64 Wall Moisture Testing

73 Temperature - F Temperature - F CZ 6A - Wisconsin - Site - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall J (solid/osb) - 1/2" Plfoil, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/vapor barrier paint Wall K (dash/stud) - 1" Plfoil, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/vapor barrier paint E-Kit E-Kit2, 1", stud N-Laun, 1", stud N-Mbath, 1", stud N-Mbed N-Rafter S-Kit S-Rafter S-Rafter2 W-2Fl-Stor W-LvRm W-Mbed, 1", stud 9 8 CZ 6A - Michigan - Site 21 - Wall Cavity Temperature Note: Wall Type N - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type O- 1" XPS, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type L - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x6, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type M - 1" XPS, 2x6, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type E - 2" XPS, OSB, 2x4, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type F - 2" XPS, 2x4, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint E-LvRm1 E-LvRm2 E-Mbath N-DnRm, exp (L) N-Garage N-Mbath, stud (O) N-MBath, stud, exp (M) N-Mbed N-Mbed, exp (L) S-1Fl-Bed2 S-2Fl-2x4+2, exp (E) S-2Fl-2x4+2, stud, exp (F) S-2Fl-Stair W-Mbath Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 65

74 Temperature - F N-Kit/Gar N-2Fl-Bed1 N-2Fl-Bath E-LvRm1 E-LvRm2 E-2Fl-Bed4 E-2Fl-Bed1 S-Stair S-2Fl-Bed3 W-Laun W-2Fl-Bed2 W-2Fl-Bed3 CZ 6A - Michigan - Site 22 - Wall Cavity Temperature 5 4 Note: Wall Type S - 2" Foam, OSB, 2x6 framing, ccspf flash, R23 spider insulation, gypsum/paint August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 66 Wall Moisture Testing

75 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % Appendix B: Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Charts CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 1 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type A - WRB, OSB, 2x4, R13 Fiberglass Batts, gypsum/paint E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed W-Kit W-Util, stud W-Util CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 2 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type B - 1/2" Foam, OSB, 2x4, R15 Spray Cellulose, gypsum/paint E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed W-Kit W-Util, stud W-Util Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 67

76 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % CZ 2A - Louisiana - Site 3 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type I - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R24 Spray Rockwool, gypsum/paint East West - Reflective Wrb, OSB, 2x6, R24 Spray Rockwool, gypsum/paint E-Mbath E-Mbed, stud E-Mbed N-Bed2, stud N-Bed2 N-Bed3, stud N-Bed3 S-Mbed, stud S-Mbed Crawl Floor W-DnRm W-Util, stud CZ 3A - Alabama - Site 4 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type C - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x4, R13 Fiberglass Batts, gypsum/paint unless noted N-Bed3 N-LvRm E-Roof1 E-Roof2 E-LvRm E-DnRm S-Bed1 W-Roof1 W-Roof2 W-Roof-Truss W-Bed1 W-Mbath W-Bed2 August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 68 Wall Moisture Testing

77 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % CZ 3A - Alabama - Site 5 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type G - OSB, 2x4, R18 ccspf, gypsum/paint unless noted N-Bed3 N-LvRm E-Roof1 E-Roof2 E-LvRm E-DnRm S-Bed1 W-Roof1 W-Roof2 W-Roof-Truss W-Bed1 W-Mbath W-Bed CZ 3A - Texas - Site 6 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity N-bath, stud N-Bed1 N-Bed1, stud E-Bed1-2 S-Mbed W-Mbed1 W-Mbed2 N-Roof1 S-Roof1 S-Roof3 Under Slab N-Kit, stud N-Mbath E-Bed1-1 E-Bed2 S-LvRm W-Mbath W-Mbed, stud N-Roof2 S-Roof2 Concrete Slab Duct 5 4 Note: Waal Type P - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R16 Open Cell Cavity Foam, gypsum/paint Roof sensors located in the underside of the roof sheathing buried in SPF Attic sensors located in truss framing of unvented attic space Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 69

78 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 7 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type U - WRB, OSB, (2) 2x6, R46 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-Hall-R46 NW-1Fl-Bath NW-1Fl-GrRm NW-1Fl-Roof SE-1Fl-Kit1 SE-1Fl-Kit2 SE-1Fl-Kit3 SE-1Fl-DR SW-1Fl-DR NE-2Fl-Mbed NE-2Fl-Mbath NW-2Fl-Hall NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bed3 SE-2Fl-Bath SW-2Fl-Bed2 SW-2Fl-Hall NE-3Fl-Attic NW-3Fl-Bed4 SE-3Fl-Loft NW-Bsmt SE-Bsmt Turret Roof CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 8 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-Kit NW-1Fl-GrRm SE-1Fl-DnRm SE-1Fl-Kit SW-1Fl-Den NE-2Fl-Mbath NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bed2 SE-2Fl-Mbath SW-2Fl-Bed3 August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 7 Wall Moisture Testing

79 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % CZ 4A - Maryland - Site 9 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-GrRm SE-1Fl-Den SE-1Fl-Kit SW-1Fl-Den NE-2Fl-Mbath NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Mbed SE-2Fl-Bed2 SE-2Fl-Laun SW-2Fl-Bed3 SE-3Fl-Loft CZ 4A - Maryland - Site - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-1Fl-GrRm1 NE-1Fl-GrRm2 NW-1Fl-Kit1 NW-1Fl-Kit2 SE-1Fl-Bath SW-1Fl-DnRm NE-2Fl-Mbed NW-2Fl-Bath NW-2Fl-bed3 NW-2Fl-Mbath SE-2Fl-Mbed SW-2Fl-Bed2 SE-3Fl-Loft Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 71

80 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % CZ 4A - Delaware - Site 11 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type H - WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint NE-Brkfst NE-Kitch NE-Mbed NW-Mbath NW-MBathSh NW-Gar SE-Bed3 SE-FamRm SW-Bed2 SW-Bed2b BsmtFlDeck roof deck CZ 4C - Washington - Site 12 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Q - WRB, OSB, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset studs, R24, gypsum/paint sensor 9 sensor 1 sensor 2 sensor 3 sensor 4 sensor 5 sensor 6 sensor 7 sensor 8 August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 72 Wall Moisture Testing

81 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % CZ 4C - Washington - Site 13 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Q - WRB, OSB, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset studs, R24, gypsum/paint Sensor7 Sensor8 Sensor4 Sensor5 Sensor6 Sensor1 Sensor2 Sensor3 Sensor9 Sensor Sensor11 Sensor12 CZ 5A - Iowa - Site 15 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type X - OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, interior v.b., gypsum/paint N-Mbed1 N-Mbed2 N-Mbath E-FamRm E-Mbed E-Laun S-Bath S-Bed2 W-Bed2 Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 73

82 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % CZ 5A - Iowa - Site 16 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type X - OSB, 2x6, R23 blown fiberglass, interior v.b., gypsum/paint N-BsmtBed N-BsmtRec1 N-BsmtRec2 N-FamRm N-Kit N-Mbed E-BsmtBath E-Mbath E-Mbed S-Bath S-Bed2 W-Kit 1 CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 17 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type R (solid line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, 1" ccspf flash, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type W (dash line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint N-Kit 1 N-Kit 2 N-stair N-Mbath, no spf N-Mbath E-DnRm, no spf 1 E-DnRm 1 E-DnRm 2 E-DnRm, no spf 2 E-2Fl-Bed S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed W-2Fl-bed August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 74 Wall Moisture Testing

83 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % 1 CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 18 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type R (solid line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, 1" ccspf flash, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type W (dash line) - 1" Ext Foam, WRB, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint N-Kit 1 N-Kit 2 N-stair N-Mbath, no spf N-Mbath E-DnRm, no spf 1 E-DnRm 1 E-DnRm, no spf 2 E-DnRm 2 E-2Fl-Bed S-Mbed S-LvRm W-Mbed W-2Fl-bed 1 CZ 5A - Michigan - Site 19 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type T - 1-1/2" Foam, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset framing, 1" ccspf, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Wall Type V - 1-1/2" Foam, 2x6 plates, 2x4 offset framing, 1" ccspf, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/paint Special Note: 16"x24" OSB plates for testing N-DnRm, osb, no spf N-DnRm N-2Fl-Bed2 E-DnRm, osb, no spf E-DnRm S-Mbath S-2Fl Bed4 W-2Fl Bed2 N-DnRm, stud N-Mbed E-LvRm E-DnRm, stud E-2Fl-Bed4 S-LvRm W-Mbed Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 75

84 Relative Humidity - % Relative Humidity - % 1 CZ 6A - Wisconsin - Site - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall J (solid/osb) - 1/2" Plfoil, OSB, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/vapor barrier paint Wall K (dash/stud) - 1" Plfoil, 2x6, R23 blown cellulose, gypsum/vapor barrier paint E-Kit E-Kit2, 1", stud N-Laun, 1", stud N-Mbath, 1", stud N-Mbed N-Rafter S-Kit S-Rafter S-Rafter2 W-2Fl-Stor W-LvRm W-Mbed, 1", stud CZ 6A - Michigan - Site 21 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type N - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type O- 1" XPS, 2x6, ccspf flash, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type L - 1" XPS, OSB, 2x6, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type M - 1" XPS, 2x6, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type E - 2" XPS, OSB, 2x4, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint Wall Type F - 2" XPS, 2x4, blown fiberglass, gypsum/paint E-LvRm1 E-LvRm2 E-Mbath N-DnRm, exp (L) N-Garage N-Mbath, stud (O) N-MBath, stud, exp (M) N-Mbed N-Mbed, exp (L) S-1Fl-Bed2 S-2Fl-2x4+2, exp (E) S-2Fl-2x4+2, stud, exp (F) S-2Fl-Stair W-Mbath August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 76 Wall Moisture Testing

85 Relative Humidity - % 1 CZ 6A - Michigan - Site 22 - Wall Cavity Relative Humidity Note: Wall Type S - 2" Foam, OSB, 2x6 framing, ccspf flash, R23 spider insulation, gypsum/paint N-Kit/Gar N-2Fl-Bed1 N-2Fl-Bath E-LvRm1 E-LvRm2 E-2Fl-Bed4 E-2Fl-Bed1 S-Stair S-2Fl-Bed3 W-Laun W-2Fl-Bed2 W-2Fl-Bed3 Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 77

86 Appendix C: Summary Moisture Performance by Wall Type Wall Type A Climate Zone 2A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Louisiana typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 13 OSB, WRB, 2x4 Framing w/ R North fiberglass batts, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board R13 Fiberglass Unfaced Batts 16" o.c. 7 16" OSB House Wrap 8" Fiber Cement Siding South East West Wall Type B Climate Zone 2A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Louisiana typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 12 OSB, 1/2" Foam R3, 2x North Framing w/ R15 spray cellulose, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board R15 Spray Cellulose Insulation 16" o.c. 7 16" OSB 1 2"Foam Board Insulation Vinyl Siding South East West August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 78 Wall Moisture Testing

87 Wall Type C Climate Zone 3A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Alabama typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - OSB, 1" xps foam R5, 2x North Framing w/ R13 fiberglass batts, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board R13 Fiberglass Unfaced Batts 16" o.c. 7 16" OSB House Wrap 1" XPS Foam 8" Fiber Cement Siding South East West Wall Type E Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 13 OSB, 2" xps foam R, 2x4 Framing w/ R13 blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 16" o.c. 2" XPS Foam Cedar Siding North South East West Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 79

88 Wall Type F Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year 21 Sensor in Stud, Not OSB 11 - Description: - 13 No OSB, 2" xps foam R, 2x4 Framing w/ R13 blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 16" o.c. 2" XPS Foam Cedar Siding North South East West Wall Type G Climate Zone 3A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Alabama typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 12 OSB, WRB, 2x4 Framing w/ R North closed cell foam, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board R18 Closed Cell Foam 16" o.c. 7 16" OSB House Wrap 8" Fiber Cement Siding South East West August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 8 Wall Moisture Testing

89 Wall Type H typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Climate Zone 4A Maryland Del typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: OSB, WRB, 2x6 Framing w/ R blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board R23 Blown-in Fiberglass 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB House Wrap Vinyl Siding 11 NorthEast (Iowa North) SouthEast (Iowa East) NorthWest (Iowa South) SouthWest (Iowa West) Wall Type I Climate Zone 2A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Louisiana typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 16 OSB, WRB, 2x6 Framing w/ R24 spray North rockwool, and gypsum w/ paint. WRB on east and west is reflective " Gypsum Board R24 Rockwool Spray 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB Furring Strips WRB (Foil Wrap East & West Only) Wood Siding South East West Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 81

90 Wall Type J Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Wisconsin typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 13 OSB,.5" foil faced foam R2.5, 2x6 Framing w/ R19 blown cellulose, and gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board Vapor Barrier Paint Blown Cellulose 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB House Wrap 1 2" Foil Faced Foam Cedar Siding North South East West Wall Type K Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Wisconsin typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Sensor in Stud, Not OSB Description: - 15 No OSB, 1" foil faced foam R5, 2x North Framing w/ R19 blown cellulose, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board Vapor Barrier Paint Blown Cellulose 24" o.c. 1" Foil Faced Foam House Wrap Cedar Siding South East West August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 82 Wall Moisture Testing

91 Wall Type L Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 22 OSB, 1" xps foam R5, 2x6 Framing North w/ R blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB 1" XPS Foam Cedar Siding South East West Wall Type M Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year 21 Sensor in Stud, Not OSB Description: - 15 No OSB, 1" xps foam R5, 2x North Framing w/ R blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Drywall Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 24" o.c. 1" XPS Foam Cedar Siding South East West Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 83

92 Wall Type N Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 18 OSB, 1" xps foam R5, 2x6 Framing North w/ ccspf flash & R23 blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board 1" SPF Flash (cc) Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB 1" XPS Foam Cedar Siding South East West Wall Type O Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year 21 Sensor in Stud, Not OSB Description: - 14 No OSB, 1" xps foam R5, 2x North Framing w/ ccspf flash & R23 blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ 11 paint " Gypsum Board 1" SPF Flash (cc) Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 24" o.c. 1" XPS Foam Cedar Siding South East West August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 84 Wall Moisture Testing

93 Wall Type P Climate Zone 3A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Texas typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - OSB, WRB, 2x4 Framing w/ R13 13 North fiberglass batts, and gypsum w/ paint South " Gypsum Board 5" R16 Open Cell Foam 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB House Wrap Brick East West Wall Type Q typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Climate Zone 4C Washington typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: OSB, WRB, 2x6 plates w/ 2x4 offset framing & R24 blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board R24 Blown-in Fiberglass 2x4 offset framing on 2x6 plates 7 16" OSB House Wrap Vinyl Siding 11 Other Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 85

94 Wall Type R typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Climate Zone 5A Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 18 OSB, 1" XPS Foam R5, WRB, 2x6 Framing w/ 1" ccspf Flash and R21 blown cellulose, and gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board 1" SPF Flash (cc) R21 Blown Cellulose 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB 1" XPS Foam Siding North South East West August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 86 Wall Moisture Testing

95 Wall Type S Climate Zone 6A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 25 OSB, 2" xps foam R, 2x6 Framing North w/ R blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint " Gypsum Board Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB 2" XPS Foam Cedar Siding South East West Wall Type T Climate Zone 5A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 31 OSB, 1.5" xps foam, WRB, 2x North plates w/ 2x4 Framing w/ R21 blown cellulose, and gypsum w/ 11 paint 1 2" Gypsum Board Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 2x4 offset framing on 2x6 plates 1.5" XPS Foam Cedar Siding South East West Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 87

96 Wall Type U Climate Zone 4A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Maryland typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year 7 Description: OSB, WRB, (2) 2x6 Framing w/ R46 blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board R46 Blown-in Fiberglass (2) 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB House Wrap Vinyl Siding North East North West South East South West Wall Type V Climate Zone 5A typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 18 OSB, 1.5" xps foam, WRB, 2x North plates w/ 2x4 Framing & ccspf Flash w/ R21 blown cellulose, and 11 gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board Blown Fiberglass (Spider) 1" SPF Flash (cc) 2x4 offset framing on 2x6 plates 1.5" XPS Foam Cedar Siding South East West August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 88 Wall Moisture Testing

97 Wall Type W typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Climate Zone 5A Michigan typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 32 OSB, 1" XPS Foam R5, WRB, 2x6 Framing w/ R21 blown cellulose, and gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board R21 Blown Cellulose 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB 1" XPS Foam Siding North South East West Wall Type X typical winter = 12/15-3/15 Climate Zone 5A Iowa typical summer = 6/15-9/15 Year Description: - 11 OSB, WRB, 2x6 Framing w/ R23 blown fiberglass, and gypsum w/ paint 1 2" Gypsum Board 4 mil Polyethylene Vapor Retarder R23 Blown-in Fiberglass 24" o.c. 7 16" OSB House Wrap Vinyl Siding North South East West Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 89

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99 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Appendix D: Daily Indoor Temperature and Relative Humidity for Each Test Site Climate Zone2A - Louisiana - Site 1 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Climate Zone2A - Louisiana - Site 2 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 91

100 Tempertature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Climate Zone2A - Louisiana - Site 3 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Climate Zone 3A - Alabama - Site 4 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 92 Wall Moisture Testing

101 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Climate Zone 3A - Alabama - Site 5 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Climate Zone 3A - Texas - Home 6 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bed2 Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bed 2 RH% Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 93

102 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Climate Zone 4A - Maryland - Site 7 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% Climate Zone 4A - Maryland - Site 8 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 94 Wall Moisture Testing

103 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Climate Zone 4A - Maryland - Site 9 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% Climate Zone 4A - Maryland - Site Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 95

104 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Climate Zone 4A - Delaware - Site 11 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% Climate Zone 4C - Washington - Home 12 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Exterior T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 96 Wall Moisture Testing

105 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Climate Zone 5A - Iowa - Site 15 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% Climate Zone 5A - Iowa - Site 16 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 97

106 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Climate Zone 5A - Michigan - Home 17 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp 2 Fl Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% 2 Fl RH% Bsmt RH% Climate Zone 5A - Michigan - Home 18 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp 2 Fl Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% 2 Fl RH% Bsmt RH% August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs 98 Wall Moisture Testing

107 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Condiotns, % Climate Zone 5A - Michigan - Home 19 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% Climate Zone 6A - Wisconsin - Site Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Home Innovation Research Labs August 14 Wall Moisture Testing 99

108 Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % Temperature, F & Relative Humidity, % T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% Climate Zone 6A - Michigan - Site 21 Interior & Exterior Conditions Climate Zone 6A - Michigan - Home 22 Interior & Exterior Conditions T-Stat Temp Mbath Temp Bsmt Temp Exterior Temp T-Stat RH% Mbath RH% Bsmt RH% August 14 Home Innovation Research Labs Wall Moisture Testing

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