Guides A-Z

Guide describing how to insulate a basement to improve the overall thermal performance of the building and provide more dry, usable conditioned space for home occupants and for HVAC equipment.

Guide describing how to air seal doors that are next to unconditioned spaces.

Guide describing how to install WaterSense® labeled bathroom faucets and accessories.

Guide describing how to install WaterSense® labeled kitchen faucets and accessories.

Guide describing how to create a capillary break at all crawlspace floors using polyethylene sheeting to manage moisture in crawlspaces.

Guide describing how to install moisture-resistant materials on walls behind showers and tubs to help manage moisture.

Vapor retarders can be a crucial part of the building envelope and can help manage moisture issues to keep the home dry. However, before installing a vapor retarder, installers must be aware that in some instances vapor retarders can increase the likelihood of condensation issues.

Guide describing how to install a corrosion-resistant drain pan in condensate-producing HVAC equipment.

Guide describing how ice dams form and how roofs can be constructed to prevent them.

Guide describing how to install ENERGY STAR rated dishwasher and clothes washers.

Guide describing installation of sump pumps in the basement or crawlspace of a home.

Guide describing methods for short-term control of erosion during construction and long-term measures for controlling erosion on sloped sites or sites with river banks or shore lines.

Guide describing how to apply flashing to the bottom of exterior walls to create a continuous drainage plane.

Guide describing testing of water-using fixtures, equipment, and appliances to ensure there are no leaks.

Guide describing how to properly apply mulch to landscaping.

Vapor retarder plastic should not be installed over fibrous insulation on basement or crawlspace walls unless rigid foam or spray foam is installed directly against the concrete, behind the blanket insulation.

Guide describing how to correctly choose building materials.

Guide describing how to correctly slope solid surfaces outside a home so rainwater flows away from the home.

Guide describing how to apply heavy membranes at eaves in cold climates to help guard against ice dams.

Guide describing service water pressure requirements for EPA's WaterSense Program.

Guide describing how to install step and kick-out flashing on roofs.

Guide describing the need for covers on sump pumps in the basement or crawlspace of a home.

Guide describing toilet and urinal requirements and selection for EPA's WaterSense program.

Guide describing how to determine an efficient and effective water softener.

Guide describing how to design a water-efficient landscape that will minimize the need for supplemental water by using the WaterSense® Water Budget Tool.

Guide describing appropriate flooring for wet areas of the home.

Guide describing how to install flashings to help direct water down and out of windows and doors openings in exterior walls.