Securing the building envelope begins with the recognition that the majority of moisture and air intrusions occur at transition points including roof to wall, wall to foundation and wall to disparate building materials.

This session will examine the role these transitions play in allowing air and moisture intrusion & extrusion and the potential for mold, indoor air quality and material problems that result when these transitions are not properly sealed. We’ll discuss what constitutes an effective air and moisture management system in the roof to wall transition addressing: precipitation and bulk water movement, air flow and diffusive vapor flow. We’ll examine vapor drive through foundation walls in below grade transitions which, due to damp soil and other underground moisture, can pose risks yearround to above ground interior spaces. We’ll discuss how to navigate the issues that arise from transitioning to different materials, such as gypsum sheathing to concrete wall. We’ll present the influence materials composition, compatibility of materials, materials performance, and maintaining the integrity of the design specification through construction plays as well as the influence of quality control and system testing. We’ll provide insight into the role the system’s water and air barriers play to create air and water barrier continuity at these critical transition points, including the roof to wall transition at parapets where freeze thaw may occur in cold climates. An examination of the common design errors will also help attendees identify and avoid them. Finally, we’ll discuss the important role consultants who specialize in roof to wall transitions can play in the design process.