Buildings with materials that exhibit seasonal moisture buffering—such as timber, clay, or other hygroscopic materials—can significantly affect Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments. Moisture storage and release within the building envelope influence heating and cooling loads, impacting energy predictions.
Key EPC Considerations:
Thermal and Moisture Interaction – Moisture absorption and desorption affect the building’s thermal capacity, altering heating and cooling energy requirements. EPC models must consider these effects to avoid inaccurate ratings.
Seasonal Variations – Different climatic seasons cause varying moisture levels, which influence interior temperatures and HVAC demand. Seasonal buffering can reduce peak loads but complicates EPC calculations.
Envelope Material Properties – Accurate EPC modelling requires detailed data on material porosity, moisture capacity, and drying rates. Oversimplification may lead to underestimation or overestimation of energy use.
Software Limitations – Standard EPC tools often assume dry, uniform building envelopes. Advanced simulation or expert calibration is necessary for buildings with significant moisture buffering.
Strategies for Accurate EPC Assessment:
Advanced Simulation Tools – Use software capable of modeling thermal-moisture interactions over seasonal cycles.
Material-Specific Inputs – Include properties of hygroscopic materials in EPC modeling.
Engage Expert Assessors – Certified EPC assessors experienced in complex envelope behavior ensure precise energy ratings.
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