According to forensic engineer Joseph Lstiburek, thermodynamics is not rocket science. However, the Second Law of thermodynamics worded by Rudolf Clausius may need some deciphering to fully grasp.
Yes, many contractors and engineers understand that heat goes from warm to cold, but other things may get lost: moisture goes from warm to cold, moisture goes from more to less, air goes from a higher pressure to a lower pressure, and gravity acts down.
Find out how understanding thermodynamics can help you build better, long-lasting structures in this informative and entertaining article at Building Science Corporation.