Library
This library contains research reports produced by the Building America program and other building science resources used to support this Solution Center. The materials cover both new construction and existing homes. Use the search box and/or the filters to explore hundreds of residential building resources. Access to some references not produced by Building America may require purchase from the publisher. Documents are listed alphabetically. While we continually update our database, links may have changed since posting. Please contact our webmaster if you find broken links.
Research study dcribing an evaluation of selected windows undertaken by IRC researchers at Ottawa’s Laurier House (now being used as a museum) to determine their effectiveness in controlling condensation.
Article about one way to deal with the cold-water surprise effect of tankless water heaters.
This article addresses the issue of undercutting bedroom doors to provide return airflow from bedrooms resulting in risks such as insufficient airflow, pressure imbalance, energy-inefficient loss of conditioned air, condensation within the wall, and moisture durability issues.
Information sheet outlining the criteria for ENERGY STAR qualified, windows, doors, and skylights.
Information sheet explaining how weatherstripping can be an easy and cost-effective way to save money on energy costs and improve comfort by reducing drafts.
Report describing practices and considerationsfor more efficient water use in pools, spas, and fountains.
Resource that provides guidance when choosing products that meet WaterSense program requirements.
Guide designed to help builders better understand and meet the hot water delivery system criteria as specified in EPA's WaterSense New Home Specification.
Resource that establishes the criteria for water-efficient new homes under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) WaterSense program.
Resource that provides a checklist of program criteria for water-efficient new homes under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) WaterSense program.
Guide describing details that serve as a visual reference for each of the line items in the Water Management System Builder Checklist.
Document outlining a well-detailed drainage plane and flashings.
Information sheet with the Waste Reduction Model (WARM), designed to help solid waste planners and organizations track and voluntarily report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions from several different waste management practices.
Standards for requirements, performance, construction, workmanship and others for structural-use panels.
This study uses a computer simulation approach to examine the energy and indoor air quality implications of passive and hybrid ventilation systems.
Report focusing on the performance and durability of unvented-cathedralized attics in hot-humid climates with both tile and asphalt shingle roofing.
Document summarizing the various papers on unvented conditioned cathedralized attics found on BSC's website.
Report reviewing unvented roof assemblies, such as conditioned attics and unvented cathedral ceilings that are becoming common in North American construction.
Information sheet describing the function of a vapor barrier, and methods to retard the migration of water vapor.
NAFA’s user guide for understanding ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 52.2-2012.
Guide providing information about controlling rainwater through use of drainage planes.
Information sheet with methods for constructing or retrofitting basements to reduce moisture issues.
Report providing guidance about whether to construct a vented or unvented attic based on hygro-thermal zone.
Information sheet providing definitions, applications, and techniques for applying air barriers.
Case study about affordable housing in a mixed, humid climate.
Website with consumer information about various types of lighting.
Information sheet about types and installation of insulation.
Article describing how an affordable multifamily building achieved energy savings for the same cost as code-minimum construction.
Article on thermal protectors in recessed light fixtures.
Report proposing a procedure for estimating the whole opaque wall R-value (whole-wall R-value), independent of system type and construction materials.
Guide describing details that serve as a visual reference for each of the line items in the Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist.
Document providing an overview of the Thermal Bypass Checklist for the ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes program.
Article about installing balanced ventilation systems.
Even as the worst housing market correction in more than 60 years appeared to turn a corner in 2009, the fallout from sharply lower home prices and high unemployment continued.
Article describing the risks associated with vented and unvented crawlspaces in different climate zones.