Natatorium Building Enclosure Deterioration Due to Moisture Migration

• Main Authors: Aleka Pappas, Lawrence Graham, Mark Scott
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2012-12-01
• Series: Buildings
• Subjects: CMU deterioration; façade deterioration; natatorium design; humidity control; HVAC pressurization; natatorium pressurization; recreation center
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/2/4/534

The natatorium enclosure at the Avon Recreation Center in Avon, Colorado experienced significant deterioration of the CMU façade due to moisture carried by humid air from the interior of the space into the wall assembly. This situation was caused by a combination of an insufficient interior air and vapor barrier along with an HVAC system that failed to provide negative pressurization to the space. This case study describes the investigation carried out to determine the causes of wall and roof deterioration at the building, and details the repair efforts undertaken. Lessons learned are presented to help designers, building owners, and maintenance personnel prevent similar problems from occurring in their buildings.