Determination of hygrothermal performance of building envelope by computer simulation

Moisture-related building envelope problems such as condensation, damp, delamination of coatings, unsatisfied user's comfort requirements usually arise from the unexamined/unforeseen interactions of materials with ambient environment, and with other system components during design. Today, it is possible to estimate the inuse performance of building envelopes by computer simulations except for test methods. While use of building simulation software intended to determine indoor climate systems providing appropriate environmental conditions and to assess building energy performance is increasing, the use of simulation software to assess hygrothermal performance of building envelopes has only been recently started to spread. This paper primarily deals with computer simulation software analysing hygrothermal performance of building envelopes, and important issues associated with their structure and use are considered. A typical wall design case performed by WUFI 2D is explained for contributing to extend the efficient use of simulation software in practice. Finally, when using simulation software to assess hygrothermal performance, 'selection of appropriate software' and 'planning of simulation work' processes are found matters of utmost importance in achieving goals set by the use of simulation.