Prediction evaluating of moisture problems in light-weight wood structure: Perspectives on regional climates and building materials

Most of the construction techniques and materials used in Korean wooden houses are based on those used in North America and Europe. In order to prevent moisture problems in wooden houses, it is necessary to evaluate the hygrothermal behavior of the building envelope. In this study, the hygrothermal performance of light-weight wood structures was analyzed using the WUFI simulation program in 20 regions of Korea. As the results, since there is a clear distinction between summer and winter in Korea, the location of the vapor resistance materials should be considered, and the 2 × 6 structure was found to be the most stable for installing the vapor retarder and the weather-resistive barrier on the inside and outside of a wall. In addition, the water stability of the light-weight wood structure was affected by the hygrothermal climatic conditions in each region. The OSB surface is influenced by the amount of driving rain, but the vapor-retarder layer is more significantly affected by summer heavy rain. Therefore, consideration of the regional climate conditions, the hygrothermal properties of building materials, and the location of building materials are needed to ensure the water stability of the walls in the light-weight wood structures.