On site moisture protection: An unnoticed but essential basis for sustainable timber construction

Abstract

Timber construction is gaining popularity in Germany due to its sustainability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal, but, as a biological material, it can develop issues when exposed to moisture. Wood-destroying fungi can significantly reduce durability and structural integrity. Adequate moisture protection during construction is crucial for the longevity and performance of timber structures. This paper examines moisture protection practices on German construction sites and emphasizes the importance of proper on-site moisture management for sustainable timber construction. Visits to sites using timber construction revealed the status of moisture mitigation practices in conjunction with timber construction in Germany. A mixed-methods approach included photo documentation and protocol completion, yielding data for analysis to understand the depth and effectiveness of moisture protection strategies. The findings reveal a gap between problem awareness in the scientific community and practical handling on construction sites. Many sites exhibited disorganized structures and deficiencies in moisture protection strategies. While self-adhesive weathering membranes were used in nearly half the sites visited, less than one-third of the sites demonstrated sufficient moisture mitigation practices that protected the construction throughout the entire assembly process. This underlines the need to step up efforts in this area to ensure durable and high-quality timber construction that will be less reliant on the experience of designers or craftsmen.