Building Physics Made Simple: Why It Matters for Your Home
Building physics might sound like something reserved for engineers and scientists—but at its core, it’s the science of comfort. For homeowners, understanding just a few key concepts can make the difference between a home that’s expensive to run and one that performs beautifully year-round.
What is Building Physics?
It’s the study of how heat, air and moisture move through a building. These three elements affect everything from energy efficiency to indoor air quality—and ultimately, your comfort and your wallet.
- Heat Transfer: The Key to Seasonal Comfort
Heat moves in three ways:
– Conduction (through materials like glass or brick)
– Convection (via moving air)
– Radiation (such as heat from the sun or a fireplace)
In winter, heat escapes through poorly insulated surfaces. In summer, it floods in through walls, roofs and windows. That’s why insulation, air sealing and smart passive solar design are essential for maintaining stable indoor temperatures.
- Air Movement: Comfort’s Invisible Enemy
Uncontrolled airflow (i.e., drafts) is a silent energy waster. Gaps around windows, doors and vents let warm air leak out and cold air rush in—or vice versa. A properly sealed home, paired with a mechanical ventilation system, ensures a fresh, consistent and energy-efficient indoor environment.
- Moisture Control: Small Leaks, Big Consequences
Excess humidity causes mould, condensation and rot. Too little, and the air feels dry and uncomfortable. Effective moisture control relies on vapour barriers, breathable materials and well-designed ventilation to strike the right balance—protecting both your health and your home’s structure.
Why It Matters
Homes built with building physics in mind are more resilient, efficient and comfortable. That’s why standards like Passivhaus rely heavily on these principles—to deliver year-round comfort with minimal energy input.
Conclusion
Building physics isn’t scary—it’s simply smart design backed by science. While the calculations can get complex, the core ideas are intuitive. At HONE, we use these principles every day to create homes that feel right—and perform even better.
Want to experience the difference? Ask your builder how they approach heat, air and moisture—or better yet, talk to a Passivhaus expert.