Library

Guide for homeowners describing how to find and seal basement and attic air leaks, determine if attic insulation is adequate, make improvements safely, and reduce energy bills.

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

Report on heating and cooling air-distribution ducts that are insulated, installed close to the ceiling in a vented attic and covered with attic insulation to minimize energy loss.

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 discussing flow-through assemblies of walls.

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.

Website providing builders with information about meeting RESNET Grade 1 criteria when installing insulation.

Information sheet providing links and resources for insulating basements in cold climates.

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

Guide providing information on controlling attic ductwork sweating.

Article outlining moisture accumulation in open cell spray polyurethane foam.

Fact sheet describing building envelope performance measures applicable to residential and small commercial construction.

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

Guide describing the installation of windows in walls that have foam plastic insulating; guide provides several methods for attaching, supporting, and flashing windows in walls with rigid foam sheathing. (Note: The link only goes to the table of contents for the guide, the full guide can be...

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.