BASC Search | Building America Solution Center

Slab Edge Insulation

Guide describing how to insulate slabs on grade in climate zones 3 and higher.

Unvented Attic Insulation

Guide describing methods for insulating an unvented attic along the roof line.

Unvented, Insulated Crawlspaces

Guide describing methods for insulating an unvented crawlspace or conditioned basement with rigid foam on the interior side of the walls to provide an insulated space for HVAC equipment.

Insulating Plumbing Pipes

Guide describing insulation of piping in exterior walls.

Attic Eave Minimum Insulation

Guide providing guidance on insulating attic eaves in new and existing single-family homes and multifamily buildings.

Air Sealed, Insulated Basements

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 HVAC equipment.

Attic Air Sealing, Insulating, and Ventilating for Ice Dam Prevention

Information guide describing proper attic air-sealing, insulation, and ventilation to combat ice dam formation on roofs in cold climate zones.

Insulating and Air Sealing Existing Non-ICAT Recessed Lights

Guide describing air-sealing of non-ICAT recessed lights installed in accessible attics of existing homes.

Exterior Doors Are Insulated, Impact Rated, and Fire Rated

Guide describing the use of doors that are insulated and are impact rated or have protective coverings for resistance to hurricane, high winds, wildfires and thermal losses.

Examples of many common ceiling penetrations that will be difficult to insulate and air seal in this cathedral ceiling.

Publication Date

Mon, 10/30/2006 - 12:00

Ice dams formed by melting of snow on roofs can affect roofs, walls, ceilings, siding, and insulation.

Publication Date

Mon, 02/04/2013 - 12:00

Lack of insulation over the top plate can lead to ice dam formation on a low sloped roof.

Publication Date

Mon, 10/30/2006 - 12:00

Right - A dimpled-plastic geotextile mat covers the below-grade insulated concrete form (ICF) foundation to help keep water out of the foundation and to reduce hydrostatic pressure on the foundation during freeze-thaw cycles in winter.

Publication Date

Fri, 12/31/2021 - 12:00

Roof/Attic to Exterior Wall Air Control Upgrade

Guide outlining how to retrofit an exterior wall and/or attic to provide continuous air sealing.

Attic Knee Walls

Guide describing how to insulate and air-seal attic knee walls and floor joist cavities under knee walls.

Construct Roofs and Attics for Ice Dam Prevention

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

Air Sealing Attic Access Panels/Doors/Stairs

Guide describing how to air-seal attic access panels, doors, and stairs to provide a continuous air barrier at the ceiling.

Condensation Control in Attics and Roofs in Cold Weather

Guide describing causes of condensation in attics and roof assemblies during cold weather and ways to reduce this condensation.

Condensation Control for Walls in Cold Weather

Guide describing ways to construct wall assemblies in cold climates to minimize the likelihood of condensation formation inside the walls.

Air Sealing Drywall to Top Plate

Guide describing ways to seal drywall to the top plate of an exterior wall to air-seal the wall cavity.

De-Icing Ice Dams, BSI-097

Author(s)

Lstiburek Joseph W

Organization(s)

Building Science Corporation,

BSC

Publication Date

October, 2018

Article describing the importance of air sealing, insulation, and roof ventilation in reducing the likelihood of ice dam formation on roofs in cold snowy climates.

Managing Indoor Humidity and Ventilation in Cold Weather

Guide describing steps to take to minimize indoor humidity in preparation for cold winter weather.

Damp-Proof Exterior Surface of Below-Grade Walls

Guide describing how to apply water management strategies to below grade walls.

This home has heat loss through the roof, leading to ice dam formation and structural issues during winter months.

Publication Date

Mon, 02/04/2013 - 12:00

Winter Weather Overview Guide

Information guide providing an overview of winter weather issues for home owners and building science solutions for home builders.

The goal of foundation moisture management is to construct the basement, crawlspace, or slab in a way that keeps moisture from getting in in the first place

Publication Date

Thu, 03/01/2012 - 12:00

Ventilating Cathedral Ceilings to Prevent Problematic Icings at their Eaves

Author(s)

Tobiasson Wayne N,

Tantillo Thomas,

Buska James S

Organization(s)

Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory,

CRREL

Publication Date

August, 1998

Report describing the formation of icicles and ice dams along poorly ventilated roofs and how to mitigate ventilation issues with insulation and vents.