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.

Guide informing builders and developers about efficient building practice for constructing homes with structural insulated panels.

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.

Report covering insulating crawlspaces.

Article discussing whether or not to seal and insulate crawlspaces.

Guide informing architects and engineers about designing buildings to be constructed with structural insulated panels.

Fact sheet describing the Extended Plate Wall (EPW) a system that incorporates a 2-inch layer of foam plastic insulative sheathing within the framing for top and bottom plates, streamlining air sealing, window and door installation, weather resistive barrier application, and cladding attachment for...

Article discussing flow-through assemblies of walls.

Article summarizing for potential homeowners items to check or demand from the builder in designing a home for a cold climate.

Website that explains and provides diagrams for covering up above-grade rigid foam insulation.

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

Article outlining the use of spray polyurethane foam in residential buildings.

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

Report providing extensive guidance on controlling moisture in building envelopes through proper selection and installation on air, water, thermal, and vapor barriers.

Report detailing a three-winter study on unvented roof assemblies in a cold climate, assessing insulation material, ridge diffusion vent presence, vapor control membranes, relative humidity, and interstitial airflow. Results indicate that utilizing air-permeable fibrous fill insulations in unvented...

Report detailing a three-winter study on unvented roof assemblies in a cold climate, assessing insulation material, ridge diffusion vent presence, vapor control membranes, relative humidity, and interstitial airflow; results indicate that utilizing air-permeable fibrous fill insulations in unvented...

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.

SPFA website homepage.

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...

Introductory guide to air sealing the envelope of a home to reduce wasted energy and save on energy costs.