Library

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

Website article interviewing the inventor of the Larsen truss, a history of its use, and a discussion of its advantages and disadvantages.

Article about different types of weather resistant barrier.

Technical report describing the thermal performance of 40 common building envelope details for mid- and high-rise buildings, including analyses to optimize energy efficiency and reduce thermal bridging.

SPFA website signup page to access SPFA documents.

Article describing selecting insulation for minimizing condensation risks.

This report will review, and summarize the current state of understanding and research into enclosures with higher thermal resistance, so-called “High-R Enclosures.” Recommendations are provided for further research.

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 research encouraging use of exterior insulation to warm interior sheathing surfaces in walls and roof assemblies to reduce the likelihood of condensation during cold weather

Document presenting a simple starting point to determine the most cost-effective Energy Savings Measure Packages (ESMP) for existing homes to achieve 15% and 30% savings in 37 locations across the United States.

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

Information sheet presenting techniques for installing cellulose insulation.

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

Article describing how insulated siding can save homeowners energy by providing continuous exterior insulation.

Article discussing the downside to recessed can lights.

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

Report providing information about improving the energy efficiency and long-term durability of the buildings that are being reconstructed post Katrina in New Orleans.

Information sheet with the definition and uses for a raised truss.

Research study about two test homes that are examined with the goal of providing case studies that could be applied to other similar New England homes.

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

Literature review from NFPA on the use of insulation to protect the piping in home fire sprinkler systems from freezing conditions.

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

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.