Library
This library contains research reports produced by the Building America program and other building science resources used to support this Solution Center. The materials cover both new construction and existing homes. Use the search box and/or the filters to explore hundreds of residential building resources. Access to some references not produced by Building America may require purchase from the publisher. Documents are listed alphabetically. While we continually update our database, links may have changed since posting. Please contact our webmaster if you find broken links.
Article about one way to deal with the cold-water surprise effect of tankless water heaters.
This article addresses the issue of undercutting bedroom doors to provide return airflow from bedrooms resulting in risks such as insufficient airflow, pressure imbalance, energy-inefficient loss of conditioned air, condensation within the wall, and moisture durability issues.
Information sheet outlining the criteria for ENERGY STAR qualified, windows, doors, and skylights.
Information sheet explaining how weatherstripping can be an easy and cost-effective way to save money on energy costs and improve comfort by reducing drafts.
Report describing practices and considerationsfor more efficient water use in pools, spas, and fountains.
Resource that provides guidance when choosing products that meet WaterSense program requirements.
Information sheet with the Waste Reduction Model (WARM), designed to help solid waste planners and organizations track and voluntarily report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions from several different waste management practices.
Standards for requirements, performance, construction, workmanship and others for structural-use panels.
This study uses a computer simulation approach to examine the energy and indoor air quality implications of passive and hybrid ventilation systems.
Report focusing on the performance and durability of unvented-cathedralized attics in hot-humid climates with both tile and asphalt shingle roofing.
Document summarizing the various papers on unvented conditioned cathedralized attics found on BSC's website.
Report reviewing unvented roof assemblies, such as conditioned attics and unvented cathedral ceilings that are becoming common in North American construction.
Information sheet describing the function of a vapor barrier, and methods to retard the migration of water vapor.
NAFA’s user guide for understanding ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 52.2-2012.
Guide providing information about controlling rainwater through use of drainage planes.
Report providing guidance about whether to construct a vented or unvented attic based on hygro-thermal zone.
Information sheet providing definitions, applications, and techniques for applying air barriers.
Case study about affordable housing in a mixed, humid climate.
Website with consumer information about various types of lighting.
Information sheet about types and installation of insulation.
Article on thermal protectors in recessed light fixtures.
Report proposing a procedure for estimating the whole opaque wall R-value (whole-wall R-value), independent of system type and construction materials.
Document providing an overview of the Thermal Bypass Checklist for the ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes program.
Article about installing balanced ventilation systems.
Even as the worst housing market correction in more than 60 years appeared to turn a corner in 2009, the fallout from sharply lower home prices and high unemployment continued.
Research study exploring retrofit procedures and simulated post-occupancy data for three homes in an effort to determine the effectiveness of retrofit packages.
This TechNote provides an overview of building code requirements and best practices for flashing at window and door frames.
Brochure with information about how to select and install house wrap and other weather-resistive barriers.
The Technician's Guide equips practitioners with the knowledge to properly implement all of the measurement procedures required in the HVAC QI Specification.
Information for properly sizing gas lines for use with tankless water heaters and other gas appliances.