161 - Back to Basics: Water Control Layers Explained

Water is the number one enemy of building durability—and the first control layer every builder, architect, and designer needs to understand. In Part 1 of a four-part Back to Basics series, Steve, Jake, and Pete break down the principles of water management that every high-performance building depends on.The conversation starts where most rain begins: the roof. From roof design and drainage to flashing strategies and capillary action, the crew explores how liquid water moves through buildings and why good design is the first line of defense. They also discuss how patterns of water damage in both historic and modern buildings reveal timeless lessons about moisture management.One of the episode's most interesting discussions comes when building science theory meets real-world practice. Steve approaches water management from an architect's perspective, while Jake explains the practical realities builders face every day. The result is a thoughtful conversation about balancing ideal building science with constructability in the field.This is Part 1 of a four-part series covering the four fundamental building control layers: Water, Air, Vapor, and Thermal.Pete's Resources:Joe Lstiburek – Moisture Control for BuildingsEPA – Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction, and MaintenanceWater in Buildings: An Architect's Guide to Moisture and Mold