WEBINAR: Residential & Commercial – The Voyage of Vapor: Moving Through the Building Envelope

Course Number BOI 108

Presented by Benjamin Obdyke

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Course Description:

This course examines the risks of vapor-closed wall and roof assemblies in residential wood-framed construction and introduces effective design strategies for moisture control using vapor-open building materials. Participants will explore the building science behind vapor diffusion, condensation, and dew point management. Through technical insights, case studies, and product-integrated solutions, the course demonstrates how vapor-open assemblies improve drying potential, reduce moisture-related failures, and enhance overall building durability.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain how water vapor moves through wall and roof assemblies and the impact of seasonal temperature and humidity changes.
• Identify the risks of vapor-closed assemblies, including the potential for condensation, mold growth, and material degradation.
• Recognize the benefits of vapor-open assemblies, such as increased drying potential and tolerance for installation variation.
• Describe the role of rainscreens and cold roofs in promoting vapor flow and reducing moisture entrapment.
• Identify the correlation between vapor diffusion and drying capacity of the building envelope.