Building Science Principles Flashcards
7 cards from real HERS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Building Science Principles flashcards as text
What is a 'thermal bridge' and how does it affect wall performance?
Answer: A highly conductive element like a metal stud that bypasses insulation and increases heat flow
A thermal bridge is a conductive path—such as a metal stud—that bypasses insulation and significantly increases heat transfer through the assembly.
During summer in a cooling-dominated climate, which solar orientation typically receives the highest heat gain through unshaded windows?
Answer: East- and west-facing windows
East and west windows receive direct low-angle sun in the morning and afternoon, causing high solar heat gain that is difficult to shade externally.
What does 'sensible heat' describe in HVAC and building science?
Answer: Heat that changes the temperature of a substance without changing its phase
Sensible heat is thermal energy that causes a measurable temperature change in a substance, measured with a thermometer.
In a vented crawlspace, which condition creates the most risk of moisture damage to floor framing?
Answer: Warm, humid outdoor air entering a cool crawlspace in summer
When warm, humid outdoor air enters a cool crawlspace in summer, it cools to its dew point and condenses on framing and insulation.
What is the purpose of the 'Solar Heat Gain Coefficient' (SHGC) of a window?
Answer: It quantifies how much solar radiation passes through the window into the building
SHGC is a dimensionless number (0–1) indicating the fraction of incident solar radiation transmitted through a window as heat gain.
Which insulation material is classified as an air barrier when installed properly at the correct thickness?
Answer: Closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (ccSPF)
Closed-cell spray foam is both an insulator and a Class II vapor retarder and air barrier when applied at sufficient thickness (typically 2 inches or more).
What is 'hygric buffering' (or moisture buffering) in the context of building materials?
Answer: A material's capacity to absorb and release moisture, dampening indoor humidity swings
Hygric buffering describes how materials like wood or gypsum board absorb excess indoor moisture and release it later, stabilizing humidity levels.