Rain Control and Design Strategies

Abstract

Controlling rain penetration is one of the most important func tions of the building enclosure. Despite its importance, the design for rain penetra tion is typically based on experience and rules of thumb that make use of tradi tional details. Designers and analysts have no theory to guide them.

This paper develops a rational means of describing, understanding, and classifying rain control for the above-grade enclosure. The manner in which walls and roofs actually control rain in service is then discussed.

The rain control classification developed is a rigorous and practical means of un derstandmg the function of each layer and material in an assembly This approach will aid the development of realistic test methods and provide the means for a more accurate assessment of the reasons for enclosure failures and therefore the proper repair and retrofit strategies.

Get full access to this article

View all access options for this article.

References

Desjarlais, A.O. 1995. "Self-Drying Roofs: What!? No Drippmg!", Proceedings of Thermal Performance of the Exterior Envelopes of Buildings VI, Clearwater Beach, Florida, Dec. 2-5, pp. 763-773.

Kenney, R.J. and Piper, R.S. 1995. "Proposed Material and Application Standards for More Durable Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems," Development, Use, and Performance of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, ASTM STP 1187 , Mark Williams and Richard Lampo , Eds., American Society of Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, pp. 56-73.

Straube, J.F. 1993. The Performance of Wall Systems Screened with Brick Veneer M.A.Sc. thesis, Civil Eng. Dept., University of Waterloo .

Straube, J.F. 1998. Moisture Control and Enclosure Wall Systems. Ph.D. thesis, Civil Eng. Dept., University of Waterloo.

Straube, J.F. and Burnett, E.F.P. 1997. "Ram Control and Screened Wall Systems," Proceedings of the Seventh Conference on Building Science and Technology, Toronto, Mar. 20-21, pp. 17-37.