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A below-grade foundation wall with a damp-proof coating

The New American Home 2007, Orlando, Florida

IBACOS. 2009. The New American Home 2007, Orlando, Florida. Prepared by IBACOS for the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.

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The New American Home 2007, Orlando, Florida
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A complete HVAC system includes ducted returns

PNNL Unpublished Resource

PNNL. Unpublished Resource.

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PNNL Unpublished Resource
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Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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A continuous layer of polyethylene covers the crawlspace floor and is attached to the wall with wood nailing strips

Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, and PM Love.  2011.  Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates. PNNL-20139. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy, Building America Program.

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Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates
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Baechler et. al
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U.S. Department of Energy
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A continuous rim joist separates the garage and living space

High Performance Building Details: Garage Band Joist Air Barrier

Consortium for Advanced Residential Buildings (CARB).  2010.  High Performance Building Details: Garage Band Joist Air Barrier. Prepared by Steven Winter Associates for the U.S. Department of Energy, Building America Program.

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High Performance Building Details: Garage Band Joist Air Barrier
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Consortium for Advanced Residential Buildings
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Consortium for Advanced Residential Buildings
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A crane is used to install the SIP fireplace chimney chase

Unpublished Figure

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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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A damp crawlspace

Photo courtesy Steve Easley & Associates

Photo courtesy Steve Easley & Associates

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Photo courtesy Steve Easley & Associates
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Steve Easley & Associates
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A direct-vent sealed-combustion fireplace takes its combustion air directly from outside through a dedicated air inlet and vents combustion products directly outside

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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A direct-vent sealed-combustion furnace has dedicated pipes for combustion air and exhaust

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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A metal plate is used to connect top plates to one another

Building Science Insights: Advanced Framing

Lstiburek, J. 2010. Building Science Insights: Advanced Framing. BSI-030. Building Science Corporation.

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BSI-030_Advanced_Framing.pdf
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Building Science Insights: Advanced Framing
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Lstiburek
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Building Science Corporation
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A moisture meter verifies that the moisture of the framing is below the recommended 18%

Water Management System Builder Checklist Guide

EPA. 2011. Water Management System Builder Checklist Guide. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

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Water Management System Builder Checklist Guide
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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A nylon draw band and tensioning tool are used to secure the inner coil of the pre-insulated flexible duct

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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A nylon draw band and tensioning tool are used to secure the inner liner of the pre-insulated flexible duct

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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A portable CO monitor is used to test for ambient CO near a ventless combustion fireplace

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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A pumper is used to place the concrete into the foam form walls

Field Energy Performance of an Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) Wall

National Research Council Canada. 2012. Field Energy Performance of an Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) Wall. IRC-RR 326. National Research Council Canada.

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Field Energy Performance of an Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) Wall
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National Research Council Canada
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National Research Council Canada
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A site-built rafter roof with a raised top plate allows for more insulation underneath

Appendix A: Air Sealing Key Points

Southface Energy Institute. 2011. "Appendix A: Air Sealing Key Points," in Georga State Supplements and Amendments to the International Energy Conservation Code (2009 edition).

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Appendix A: Air Sealing Key Points
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A standard site-built roof of rafters may pinch the insulation at the eaves

Appendix A: Air Sealing Key Points

Southface Energy Institute. 2011. "Appendix A: Air Sealing Key Points," in Georga State Supplements and Amendments to the International Energy Conservation Code (2009 edition).

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Appendix A: Air Sealing Key Points
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Southface Energy Institute
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Southface Energy Institute
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A structural spline made of a solid 2x is used where needed to meet structural load requirements at SIP panel seams

Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates

Lstiburek, J. 2008. Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates. Building Science Corporation.

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Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates
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Lstiburek
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Building Science Corporation
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A surface spline reduces thermal bridging much more than a structural spline at SIP panel seams

Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates

Lstiburek, J. 2008. Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates. Building Science Corporation.

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Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates
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Lstiburek
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Building Science Corporation
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A technician conducts a duct blaster test

BSC Unpublished Resource

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BSC Unpublished Resource
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Building Science Corporation
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Building Science Corporation
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A termite shield and a sill gasket are installed between the sill plate and the foundation on a raised slab foundation

Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 16: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Mixed-Humid Climate

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, K Adams, RS Butner and SJ Oritz. 2011. Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 16: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Mixed-Humid Climate. PNNL-20890. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.

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Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 16: Whole-House Energy Savings in the Mixed-Humid Climate
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Baechler et. al
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Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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A ventilation controller with a manual override is located on a central air handler fan that is located in an accessible location

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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Calcs Plus
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A ventless gas fireplace has no chimney

PNNL Unpublished Resource

PNNL. Unpublished Resource.

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PNNL Unpublished Resource
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Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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A visible gap in the insulated sheathing introduces unwanted outside air, creating a thermal bypass and encouraging convective air flow

Unpublished Figure

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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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Advanced framing details throughout house including insulated and open headers

Advanced Wall Framing

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). 2002. Advanced Wall Framing. DOE/GO-102000-0770. Prepared by National Association of Home Builders Research Center, Southface Energy Institute, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory Building Technology Center and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy.

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Advanced Wall Framing
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National Association of Home Builders Research Center et. al
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U.S. Department of Energy
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Advanced framing details throughout house limit use of lumber

Advanced Wall Framing

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). 2002. Advanced Wall Framing. DOE/GO-102000-0770. Prepared by National Association of Home Builders Research Center, Southface Energy Institute, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory Building Technology Center and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy.

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Advanced Wall Framing
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National Association of Home Builders Research Center et. al
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U.S. Department of Energy
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Advanced framing showing open headers

Building Plans for Advanced Framing

Green Building Advisor. 2010. Building Plans for Advanced Framing. Green Building Advisor, Newtown, Connecticut, The Tanton Press.

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Building Plans for Advanced Framing
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Green Building Advisor
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Green Building Advisor
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Advanced framing uses less wall studs

Advanced Framing Technique

Adapted from DOL. 2012. Advanced Framing Technique. U.S. Department of Labor YouthBuild.

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Advanced Framing Technique
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U.S. Department of Labor
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U.S. Department of Labor
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After all holes through the ceiling are air sealed and the baffles have been installed, the insulation can be installed

PNNL Unpublished Resource

PNNL. Unpublished Resource.

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PNNL Unpublished Resource
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Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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After installing the house wrap over the SIPS, window flashing is installed

Unpublished Figure

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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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After securing the inner coil, cover the draw band and the seam with a generous amount of mastic

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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Calcs Plus
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Calcs Plus
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Air barrier and penetrations sealed between porch attic and conditioned space

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier installed behind shower stall

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier installed behind the tub

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier installed under staircase (picture taken from house looking into attached garage)

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is air sealed

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is continuous across several components of the lower section of wall

Air sealing at double walls

Unpublished

Green Building Advisor. 2011. Air sealing at double walls. Green Building Advisor, Newtown, Connecticut.

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Air sealing at double walls
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Green Building Advisor
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Green Building Advisor
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Air barrier is installed between double wall framing

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is installed prior to porch attic framing

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is installed prior to porch attic framing

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is not air sealed

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is not continuous

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is present and installed between the floor system and unconditioned space

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is present between garage and conditioned space

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is present between garage and floor system

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is present between the dropped ceiling/soffit and the attic

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier is present between the dropped ceiling/soffit and the attic

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier not sealed

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air barrier not sealed (picture taken from garage looking into house)

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Source
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Air barrier not sealed between porch attic and conditioned space

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Source
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Air barrier not sealed between porch attic and conditioned space

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Source
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Air barrier sealed

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air flow is produced when central HVAC fan is energized (set thermostat to “fan”)

HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

EPA. 2011. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air handler platforms used as return air plenums can draw air from vented attics and crawlspaces through other connected framing cavities

PNNL Unpublished Resource

PNNL. Unpublished Resource.

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PNNL Unpublished Resource
Authors: 
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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Air inlet is located in a convenient place for homeowner to clean

HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

EPA. 2011. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air inlet is not convenient for cleaning and located next to exhaust outlets

HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

EPA. 2011. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air leakage path in a common wall

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Air seal and insulate around the exhaust fan with a rigid foam box
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Air seal and insulate drawer and closet boxes in attic kneewalls

Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, JL Williamson, and PM Love. 2010. Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing. PNNL-19284. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.

Link: 
Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
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Air seal and insulate light tube

PNNL Unpublished Resource

PNNL. Unpublished Resource.

Link: 
PNNL Unpublished Resource
Authors: 
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
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Air seal door and window rough openings with backer rod, caulk, or nonexpanding foam

Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, JL Williamson, and PM Love. 2010. Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing. PNNL-19284. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.

Link: 
Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
Source
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Air seal floor joist cavities under kneewall with rigid foam, plywood, or OSB caulked in place
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Air seal rough opening from inside

Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, and PM Love.  2011.  Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates. PNNL-20139. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy, Building America Program.

Link: 
Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
Source
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Air seal the attic access panel with weather stripping

Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, JL Williamson, and PM Love. 2010. Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing. PNNL-19284. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.

Link: 
Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
Source
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Air seal the attic access pull-down stairs opening with weather stripping

Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, JL Williamson, and PM Love. 2010. Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing. PNNL-19284. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.

Link: 
Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 10: Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
Source
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Air seal the attic kneewall door opening with weather stripping

2009 IECC Air Barrier and Insulation Inspection Component Criteria

Southface Energy Institute. 2009. 2009 IECC Air Barrier and Insulation Inspection Component Criteria. Prepared by Southface Energy Institute for the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

Link: 
2009 IECC Air Barrier and Insulation Inspection Component Criteria
Authors: 
Southface Energy Institute
Organization: 
Southface Energy Institute
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Air seal the electrical panel

Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, and PM Love.  2011.  Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates. PNNL-20139. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy, Building America Program.

Link: 
Building America Best Practices Series Volume 12: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
Source
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Air sealing behind a staircase

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Source
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Air-tight electrical boxes have built-in gaskets and self-sealing wire holes

Air Barriers-Airtight Drywall Approach, Information Sheet 401

Lstiburek, J. 2009. Air Barriers-Airtight Drywall Approach. Information Sheet 401. Prepared by the Building Science Corporation for the Department of Energy's Building America Program.

Link: 
Air Barriers-Airtight Drywall Approach, Information Sheet 401
Authors: 
Lstiburek
Organization: 
Building Science Corporation
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All ceiling, wall, floor, and slab insulation shall achieve RESNET-defined Grade I installation

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Source
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All connections to trunk ducts in unconditioned space are insulated

HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

EPA. 2011. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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All corners insulated ≥ R-6 to edge

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Source
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All ENERGY STAR-qualified windows display the ENERGY STAR label

Residential Windows, Doors, and Skylights

EPA. 2013. Residential Windows, Doors, and Skylights. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Residential Windows, Doors, and Skylights
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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All headers above windows and doors insulated

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Source
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All holes, gaps, and seams of the rigid air barrier are air sealed

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Source
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All insulated sheathing boards are installed according to the manufacturer’s recommended fastening schedule and taping specifications

Unpublished Figure

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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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All interior/exterior wall intersections insulated to the same R-value as the rest of the exterior wall

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

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Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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All of the exhaust fans are wired to one labeled switch at the electrical panel

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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Calcs Plus
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All other ceilings

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

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Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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All other exterior walls

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

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Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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All other supply ducts and all return ducts in unconditioned space have insulation ≥ R-6

HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

EPA. 2011. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

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HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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All return air and mechanically supplied outdoor air pass through filter prior to conditioning

HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

EPA. 2011. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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All seams are caulked to completely air seal the subfloor of the cantilever
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All seams between structural insulated panels (SIPs) foamed and/or taped per manufacturer's instructions

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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All sill plates adjacent to conditioned space sealed to foundation or sub-floor with caulk. Foam gasket also placed beneath sill plate if resting atop concrete or masonry and adjacent to conditioned space

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Allow two to three feet of straight duct run from the fan exhaust port to the first elbow
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An all-terrain forklift is used to move and stage the panels

Unpublished Figure

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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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Unpublished Figure
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An HRV or ERV provides balanced ventilation

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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Calcs Plus
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Calcs Plus
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An insulated spline is another option for avoiding thermal bridging at SIP panel seams

Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates

Lstiburek, J. 2008. Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates. Building Science Corporation.

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Builders Guide to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for all Climates
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Lstiburek
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Building Science Corporation
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Application of window and door nonexpanding foam sealant

Building Media

Resource Courtesy of Building Media

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Building Media
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Building Media
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Building Media
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Apply caulk to wall framing

Building America Energy Performance Brief: Air Sealing a Porch Wall

Gilbride, TL, and K. Adams. 2011. Building America Energy Performance Brief: Air Sealing a Porch Wall. PNNL-SA-83944. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.

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Building America Energy Performance Brief: Air Sealing a Porch Wall
Authors: 
Gilbride and Adams
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
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Apply roof underlayment over roof deck and up the sidewall over housewrap

Building America Best Practices Series Volume 11: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Marine Climate

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, JL Williamson, and PM Love.  2010.  Building America Best Practices Series Volume 11: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Marine Climate.  PNNL-19517. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy, Building America Program.

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Building America Best Practices Series Volume 11: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Marine Climate
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
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Apply self-adhesive flashing over top edge of the wall flashing, diverter, and housewrap

Building America Best Practices Series Volume 11: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Marine Climate

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, JL Williamson, and PM Love.  2010.  Building America Best Practices Series Volume 11: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Marine Climate.  PNNL-19517. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy, Building America Program.

Link: 
Building America Best Practices Series Volume 11: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Marine Climate
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
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Appropriate door framing installed

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Appropriate use of framing members to support double windows and additional cripples for drywall purposes

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Approved common assembly installed

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Assembled section of fiber board duct

Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure

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Calcs Plus Unpublished Figure
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Calcs Plus
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Calcs Plus
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At least one MERV 6 or higher filter installed in each ducted mechanical system

HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist

EPA. 2011. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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At the outlet of the dryer exhaust duct, install a hooded vent with a louvered damper

Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 15: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Hot-Humid Climate

Baechler MC, TL Gilbride, MG Hefty, PC Cole, K Adams and CF Noonan. 2011. Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 15: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Hot-Humid Climate. PNNL-20768. Prepared by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy, Building America Program.

Link: 
Building America Best Practices Series, Volume 15: 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Hot-Humid Climate
Authors: 
Baechler et. al
Organization: 
U.S. Department of Energy
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At top of walls adjoining unconditioned spaces, continuous top plates or sealed blocking using caulk, foam, or equivalent material

Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook

EPA. 2011. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.

Link: 
Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist Guidebook
Authors: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Organization: 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Attach the interior 2x4 wall to the exterior wall top plate with a flat metal connector plate

Building Science Insights: Advanced Framing

Lstiburek, J. 2010. Building Science Insights: Advanced Framing. BSI-030. Building Science Corporation.

File: 
BSI-030_Advanced_Framing.pdf
Link: 
Building Science Insights: Advanced Framing
Authors: 
Lstiburek
Organization: 
Building Science Corporation
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