BASC Search | Building America Solution Center

EIFS - Problems and Solutions, BSD-146

Reference

Report on problems and solutions with EIFS stucco wall cladding systems.

Providing a Thermal Break in Gut Rehabs

Reference

Information sheet about how to reduce thermal bridging in walls.

Evaluation of Crawlspace Retrofits in Multifamily Buildings

Reference

Report analyzing results in crawlspace retrofits in multifamily buildings.

Concrete Floor Problems, BSI-003

Reference

Information guide describing issues with concrete floors, in multiple climate zones.

Retrofit Contractor Case Study: Energy Saving Services, Kalamazoo, Michigan

Case Study

Case study describing the origins and operation of a Kalamazoo-based home performance contractor.

Cement Board Installed behind Tile and Panel Tub and Shower Enclosures

Guide

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

Building Materials Property Table, Info-500

Reference

Document presenting some of the key technical properties of many of the most common building materials.

Wyandotte Neighborhood Stabilization Program: Retrofit of Two Homes

Reference

Report detailing retrofit of two existing houses in the Wyandotte Neighborhood program.

Measure Guideline: Deep Energy Enclosure Retrofit for Double-Stud Walls

Reference

Report on two approaches to retrofitting existing double-stud walls.

BSC Information - Vapor Control Layer Recommendations for All Climates, Sheet 310

Reference

Information sheet providing recommendations on the installation of vapor control layers.

Foam Shrinks, and Other Lessons, PA-1201

Reference

Journal article describing lessons learned from updating a 16-year-old deep-energy retrofit.

High-R Roofs Case Study Analysis, BA-1006

Reference

Report that considers a number of promising wall systems that can meet the requirement for better thermal control.

IRC FAQ: Conditioned Attics, GM-0905

Reference

Report discussing how to create livable space in the attic that meets IRC code requirements by either creating a ventilated roof assembly, or and unvented attic assembly.

ETW: Wall - Double Stud with Spray Foam Wall Construction

Reference

Information sheet briefly summarizing double stud with spray foam wall construction including the advantages and disadvantages of this construction strategy.

Evaluation of Retrofit Delivery Packages

Reference

Report evaluating opportunities to improve and streamline delivery of residential retrofit measures.

JM Spider® Drill & Fill Installation Guide

Reference

The purpose for this document is to provide basic guidance on the use of proven installation techniques that can be used by installers to help ensure correct “dense pack” application of JM Spider® in drill & fill applications.

Sealing Duct Boots to Floor or Drywall

Guide

Guide describing how to air seal around duct shafts and flues installed through ceilings, walls, and flooring in new and existing homes.

Existing Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Retrofitting a 1960s Split-Level Cold-Climate Home

Case Study

Case study describing the retrofit of a 1960s split-level home.

Retrofitting the Southeast: The Cool Energy House

Reference

Report about a deep energy retrofit Cool Energy House.

A Meta-Analysis of Single-Family Deep Energy Retrofit Performance in the U.S.

Reference

Report describing testing and analysis on deep energy retrofits of existing single-family homes in the U.S.

Flashing of Wall Penetrations in Existing Homes

Guide

Guide describing how to install flashing that is integrated with air and water control layers around piping, vents, and other wall penetrations as part of an exterior wall retrofit.

Plaster and Drywall Assemblies Manual

Reference

Manual describing design, detailing, material selection and troubleshooting for plaster, IEFs, and drywall, with information on continuous insulation, air barriers, rain screens, and ratings for fire and sound.

Technology Fact Sheet: Weather-Resistive Barriers

Reference

Brochure with information about how to select and install house wrap and other weather-resistive barriers.

Energy Efficient Crawlspace Foundation Retrofit: Mixed Humid Climate

Reference

Report outlining the steps of translating a new home construction scope of work (SOW) to SOW for retrofit.

Field Testing Unvented Roofs with Asphalt Shingles in Cold and Hot-Humid Climates

Reference

Report to understand the long-term moisture performance of unvented roof assemblies with fibrous insulation.

Attic Air Sealing Guide and Details, GM-1001

Reference

Document providing background and approach for the prep work necessary prior to adding attic insulation - focusing on combustion safety, ventilation for indoor air quality, and attic ventilation for durability.

Performance Evaluation and Opportunity Assessment for St. Bernard Project

Reference

Report providing information about improving the energy efficiency and long-term durability of the buildings that are being reconstructed post Katrina in New Orleans.

Survey of Whole House Programs in Midwestern Climates

Reference

Research study making several recommendations to whole-home program designers and implementers for improving the cost effectiveness and reach of whole-home programs.

Strategies for Energy Efficient Remodeling: SEER 2003 Case Study Report

Reference

Report providing information based on research and case studies, to remodelers and consumers about opportunities to increase home energy performance.

Occupant-in-Place Energy Efficiency Retrofit in a Group Home for 30% Energy Savings in Climate Zone 4

Reference

Report studying the specification, implementation, and energy savings from an EER in a group home, with an energy savings goal of 30%.