Library

Article describing methods for thermally isolating a garage in a Passive House-certified multifamily building.

The Guide addresses walls constructed with 2x4 wood frame studs, wood structural panel sheathing (WSP) as wall bracing and added backing for foam sheathing, a layer of rigid foam sheathing insulation up to 1.5 inches thick over the WSP, and a cladding system installed over the foam sheathing in low...

Part I of the Guide addresses walls constructed with 2x6 wood frame studs, wood structural panel (WSP) sheathing as exterior sheathing, gypsum board as interior sheathing, and a cladding system installed over WSP sheathing in low-rise residential buildings up to three stories in height.

The Guide addresses walls constructed with 2x4 wood frame studs, wood structural panel (WSP) sheathing as wall bracing and added backing for foam sheathing, a layer of rigid foam sheathing insulation up to 1.5 in. thick over the WSP, and a cladding system installed over the foam sheathing in low...

Article describing the effective R-values of various subslab insulation products, including foil bubble pack.

Report covering the fire performance of combustible cladding over combustible insulation.

Article describing issues with condensation in unvented attics insulated with open-cell spray foam.

Web resource that lays out the pre-work considerations, methods and finishes for installing mechanical insulation.

Report describing how to construct a frost protected shallow foundation (FPSF) as a practical alternative to a deeper, more-costly foundation in cold regions with seasonal ground freezing and the potential for frost heave.

Factsheet describing the use of rigid foam insulation to meet energy efficiency requirements and minimize fire risks.

Report providing information based on research and case studies, to remodelers and consumers about opportunities to increase home energy performance.

Conference paper describing testing of the performance of fasteners used to attach rigid foam insulation to the exterior of walls.

Report developed for Habitat for Humanity about lessons learned from demonstration retrofit projects undertaken by Habitat for Humanity affiliates in New York, Maryland, and Pennsylvania; with building systems consulting and technical assistance provided by Steven Winter Associates.

Article describing the evolution of the IRC to permit class 3 vapor retarders (latex paint) in walls coupled with exterior continuous insulation to allow drying and reduce condensation risk.

Report covering the migration of wind-blown embers in roof vents.