Lstiburek believes that while more stringent energy codes have been good for energy efficiency, they've increased the opportunity for building condensation. To control moisture buildup in the building envelope, he recommends using continuous insulation, an interior air barrier and an interior vapor barrier in cold climates.

"In terms of priority, first control for temperature, then air, then vapor, keeping in mind that moisture from exterior sources such as rain and heat produced humidity will occur," he said. "Building envelope condensation is best controlled by using an exterior air barrier, ventilated cladding, and an exterior water control layer such as a house wrap or continuous insulation."