Library

Article describing vapor retarder requirements in the International Residential Code and International Building Code 2021.

Energy Star web page providing guidance on attic ventilation.

Vinyl siding estimating and installation guide for vinyl siding products.

Article describing the building science implications of insulating vented or unvented attics.

Article describing the research into insulating vented versus unvented attics.

Research study discussing how housewraps restrict or permit the passage of water molecules based on size, but cannot control the direction in which the water vapor molecules move.

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.

Article describing the difference between conditioned or unvented attics and unconditioned or vented attics.

Journal article reporting on field experience of unvented cathedralized (UC) attics in several environments in the United States.

Article discussing flow-through assemblies of walls.

Report assessing slab-on-grade foundation insulation energy savings.

Report covering reservoir claddings, back ventilation and vapor throttles.

FEMA report describing findings from an investigation of Hurricane Ike in Texas and Louisiana and residential construction recommendations based on those findings.

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

Article outlining moisture accumulation in open cell spray polyurethane foam.

Document covering basic moisture control principles in the design of above-grade building enclosures; driving rain as a moisture load on walls; a classification system of the various rain control strategies available for walls; and good design practises for walls.

Q&A article discussing how to address moisture issues in an attic in a wet and humid coastal climate.

A field guide with residential construction best practices.

Case study of new home construction in the hot-dry and mixed-dry climate zones.

Article describing the risks associated with vented and unvented crawlspaces in different climate zones.

Information sheet describing the function of a vapor barrier, and methods to retard the migration of water vapor.

Report reviewing unvented roof assemblies, such as conditioned attics and unvented cathedral ceilings that are becoming common in North American construction.

Document summarizing the various papers on unvented conditioned cathedralized attics found on BSC's website.

Report focusing on the performance and durability of unvented-cathedralized attics in hot-humid climates with both tile and asphalt shingle roofing.

Document outlining important safety considerations of ventless fireplaces.

Document outlining a well-detailed drainage plane and flashings.