Comparison of field measurements and calculations of relative humidity and temperature in wood framed walls

Energy efficient wood frame buildings give besides a number of positive effects also risks for moisture damages. To avoid moisture damage in wood houses some parts of the Swedish construction industry use WUFI 1D calculation tool in the design phase. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the coupling between measured and WUFI 1D calculated values of relative humidity and temperature. The first step presents a comparison between measurements and blind calculations of relative humidity and temperature at different positions in a wooden wall with an air gap. In the second step has boundary conditions for calculated values been adjusted in order to achieve better agreement. The result of the comparisons between calculated and measured values are analyzed. The general conclusion of this study is that it is of great importance to apply a correct airflow in air gap. Results also show that it is possible to obtain reliable calculated values with a proper flow in the air gap.