Experiential Learning to Further Understanding of Building Science Principles

In high-performing building enclosures, the reduction of heat losses can lead to higher accumulations of moisture from condensation and vapor diffusion phenomena, which in turn can lead to rot, corrosion, mold, and overall deterioration of buildings. Building construction professionals have the unique opportunity to catch design and construction errors, which if unattended will lead to costly repairs down the road. New materials, frequent change orders on site, or process changes can have a lasting and expensive impact on functionality and durability of enclosure systems. A sound understanding and proficiency in building physics and its multifaceted principles can provide students with competencies to construct and promote better performing buildings in regards to durability, efficiency, health, and comfort. Teaching efforts in this area need to move beyond traditional pedagogical practices of transferring knowledge to a more stimulating and interactive approach, where educators facilitate environments for learners to gain knowledge through interactions with building components, performing independent experiments, problem-solving, and reporting on the findings gained in the process. This paper discusses the context, design, and implementation of several building physics education lab exercises, in which interstitial and other condensation phenomena in exterior wall assemblies can be evaluated. The lab activities engage students utilizing an experimental setup of a mobile cold climate chamber, a mix of exterior wall materials, and multiple temperature and humidity sensors, to investigate the occurrence and prevention of interstitial condensation. By observing and physically touching ice that builds up within the cavity on sheathing, or fiber insulation soaked with condensate, instructors can deliver a powerful educational message even within the constraints of a classroom through this approach.