BUILDING SCIENCE

Moisture Control

Airflow Control

Thermal Control


Building Science

Building science (also know as building physics or building dynamics) is the study of the physical laws of heat, air, and moisture in buildings. It combines a mix of heat transfer physics, material science, human physiology, and construction technology-- all of which are critical when building high-performance homes. Every builder and design professional should have a comprehensive understanding of moisture properties, thermal dynamics, air movement, and building pressure differentials.

Building Science Issues

Thermal Issues-
Heat transfer, internal and external heat gains, solar impact, thermal breaks/bridges, and mean radiant temperature

Moisture Issues-
Moisture migration mechanisms, interior/exterior moisture control methods, vapor barriers and vapor retarders, moisture buffering (storage) capacity of building materials, and  hygric factors (dew point, vapor pressure, hygric redistribution, hydrostatic pressure, etc.)

Airflow Issues-
Wind impact, stack pressures, and the effects of mechanical equipment

Building Science Application

  1. •Whole systems design- the home’s site, structure, electrical/plumbing systems, and mechanical equipment are all designed in accordance with one another.

  2. •Material analysis- structural quality, thermal properties, sound resistance, moisture buffering capacity, durability, performance

  3. •Building enclosure assessment- material interaction, R-values, vapor profile assessment, thermal bridging

  4. •Mechanical Systems- accurate sizing, room-by-room load calculations, system balancing, and proper whole-home ventilation systems

  5. •Energy efficiency analysis-  passive solar design, heat loss/gain of wall and roof assemblies, electrical load calculation, and assessment of HVAC, appliances, and lighting.

G-Build has obtained extensive training under the top scientists in the construction industry.

  1. •Home Leakage Testing

  2. •Duct Leakage Testing

  3. •HVAC Balancing Testing

  4. •Ventilation Testing

  1. •Carbon Monoxide Testing

  2. • Radon Testing

  3. •Infrared/Thermal Imaging

  4. •Durability Inspection

  1. •Mid-Build Green Verification

  2. •Final Green Verification

  3. •Thermal Bypass Inspection

  4. •Indoor Air Quality Inspection

Performance Testing & Verification Support

There are many ways to botch blower door, duct blaster, and  HVAC balancing tests. We can provide effective oversight on performance testing to assure the builder that the tests are accurate. We also offer some testing and inspection services.