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Explore this extensive library of building science guidance including research reports from DOE’s Building America program as well as hundreds of other articles, fact sheets, webpages, and reference documents related to constructing and renovating homes.

Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results:

Construction Guide - Next Generation High Performance Walls in Climate Zones 3-5, Part II: 2x4 Walls with 1” - 1.5” Exterior Insulative Sheathing

Publication Date
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Author(s)
Kochkin Vladimir,
Wiehagen Joseph
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Organization(s)
Home Innovation Research Labs,
HIRL
Description
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...

How to Destroy a Wall in Two Easy Steps

Publication Date
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Author(s)
Parlee Mark
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Organization(s)
Journal of Light Construction
Description
Article describing how omission of two small but critical wall details, a kick-out flashing and a weep screed, lead to extensive water damage to a wall.

Structural Testing of Screws through Thick Exterior Insulation

Publication Date
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Author(s)
Tatara Jun,
Ricketts Lorne
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Organization(s)
RDH Building Science Inc.,
Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology,
CCBST
Description
Conference paper describing testing of the performance of fasteners used to attach rigid foam insulation to the exterior of walls.

They All Laughed, BSI-026

Publication Date
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Author(s)
Lstiburek Joseph W
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Organization(s)
Building Science Corporation,
BSC
Description
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.