Guides A-Z | Building America Solution Center

Building Materials with High Moisture Content Not Enclosed

Guide describing how to avoid using wet materials and reduce moisture exposure in construction.

Building Science Introduction - Air Flow

Information guide providing background information about air flow in residential buildings.

Building Science Introduction - Heat Flow

Information guide providing background information about heat flow in residential buildings.

Building Science Introduction - Moisture Flow

Information guide providing background information about moisture flow in residential buildings.

Cantilevered Floor

Guide describing how to air-seal and insulate a cantilevered floor.

Capillary Break at Crawlspace Floor - Polyethylene Sheeting under Concrete Slab

Guide describing how to install a capillary break to help manage moisture in foundations.

Capillary Break at Crawlspace Floors - Polyethylene Lapped Up Walls and Piers or Secured in the Ground

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

Capillary Break Beneath Slab - Polyethylene Sheeting or Rigid Insulation over Aggregate or Sand and Geotextile Mat

Guide describing how to install a capillary break under a slab foundation using either polyethylene sheeting or rigid insulation installed over aggregate or over sand and geotextile matting.

Ceiling Fans (ENERGY STAR)

Guide describing ceiling fan components and basic steps for installation.

Cement Board Installed behind Tile and Panel Tub and Shower Enclosures

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

Central Heat Pump Water Heaters for Multifamily Buildings

Guide providing an overview of central heat pump water heater applications in multifamily buildings.

Certified Low-Emission Cabinets and Wood Products

Guide describing Indoor airPLUS construction specifications for low-VOC pressed wood materials.

Certified Low-Emission Carpet Adhesives and Carpet

Guide describing Indoor airPLUS construction specifications for carpets.

Certified Low/No Emission Interior Paints and Finishes

Guide describing Indoor airPLUS construction specifications for low/no VOC paints and finishes.

Chimneys Connected to Roof Structure

Guide providing information about flashing around a chimney to protect the intersection of the roof and chimney walls from water intrusion and anchoring of a chimney to prevent collapse in high winds.

Cisterns for Fire Suppression

Guide describing construction of cisterns for fire suppression installed on private residential property.

Class I Vapor Retarders Not Installed in Above-Grade Walls in Warm-Humid Climate

Guide describing vapor retarder permeability, insulation interaction, and example construction in a hot-humid climate.

Clay or Concrete Tile Roofs

Guide discussing disaster resistance related to clay or concrete tile roofing when installing roofing on new construction or when repairing or replacing roofing on existing homes.