10:30 am - 11:50 am | Room: Pretium Room | Session Chair: Paul Pasqualini

Hygrothermal Performance Evaluation

Hygrothermal Models For Heavy Wall Retrofits Assessments To Masonry Material Properties

Hygrothermal modelling is a useful tool in assessing decay risk when designing interior insulation retrofits of heavy masonry walls. This modelling typically involves two steps, including 1) modelling the existing assemblies to calibrate exposures relative to field observations of masonry freeze thaw decay and 2) modelling proposed retrofit assemblies to evaluate risk of masonry freeze thaw decay.  Hygrothermal material properties are available from publications of testing results for many materials, but these properties for masonry can be variable.  This paper explores the sensitivity of a case study hygrothermal model to varying individual material property inputs.  The sensitivity analysis results are then used to discuss the value of risk assessments using typical "default" masonry material property values. The results are further used to recommend masonry material properties testing scopes for interior insulation retrofit risk assessments involving hygrothermal modelling.

Randy Van Straatem, Building Enclosure Labs Inc.

Dr. Randy Van Straaten is a building science specialist with Building Enclosure Labs Inc (BELi for short).  Randy started BELi in 2021 as a client focused laboratory testing, analysis, and consulting firm bringing science and sustainability expertise to the building industry.  Previously he has worked as a researcher and consultant in the field for 20 years.

Kevin Zhang, Entuitive

Kevin is currently a Building Envelope Specialist at Entuitive and has a varied background from both building envelope consulting work and academics, with about 10 years of combined experience. His PhD dissertation was a deep dive into the materials aspect related to hygrothermal simulation, giving him insight into the intricacies of simulation and building assembly durability. He has been involved in various heritage masonry retrofit projects, including tower retrofits.