BASC Search | Building America Solution Center

Stucco that Works

Reference

Information sheet describing correct application of stucco.

Are the Walls Closing In?

Presentation

Webinar describing research on moisture performance in high-R walls.

Building Enclosure: Exterior House Wrap Installation

Video

Blower Door Quick Guide Part 2

Video

Part 2 shows how to do a one point depressurization test, the most common test, as well as how to use the Cruise function.

Building Plans for Advanced Framing

Reference

Website providing CAD files and drawings of advanced framing details.

A Thermally Broken Steel Connection

Reference

Article describing methods for thermally isolating a garage in a Passive House-certified multifamily building.

Construction Instruction

Reference

Website providing building science based guidance and training for residential construction.

Energy Flow Across Enclosures, BSI-028

Reference

Discussion of structural thermal resistance.

Building Enclosure: Exterior Wall Overview

Video

Six Corners Modern | High Performance Building Details

Video

Video describing the high-performance building details of a new home construction project.

Rigid foam forms an insulating bond break between the foundation wall and the slab

Image

This technique for installing electrical wiring avoids the need to cut into the SIP panel

Image

Install a housewrap drainage plane between the SIP panels and the exterior cladding

Image

Insulation Installation Achieves RESNET Grade 1

Guide

Guide describing RESNET Grade 1-level installation of insulation in walls, attics, and floors.

Energy Saver

Reference

Website from the U.S. Department of Energy providing consumers with information on saving energy and using renewable energy technologies.

Thermal Bypass Checklist Guide

Reference

Document providing an overview of the Thermal Bypass Checklist for the ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes program.

Passive House Basement Thermal Breaks: Karuna Video #4

Video

Video describing the thermal breaks in a passive house basement.

ETW: Wall - ICF Wall Construction

Reference

Information sheet that summarizes Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction including advantages and disadvantages of this construction strategy.

Right - Rigid foam slab edge insulation is installed along the exterior edge of a monolithic slab foundation.

Image

An insulated spline is another option for avoiding thermal bridging at SIP panel seams

Image

EIFS - Problems and Solutions, BSD-146

Reference

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

Building Science Introduction

Reference

Document outlining building science principles about air flow, heat flow and moisture flow in homes.

Right - Seal the sill plate to the rim joist with caulk.

Image

Building Enclosure: Exterior Door Installation

Video

Video describing installation of an exterior door, including flashing, in-place adjustments, fastening, and finishing

SIP panel walls are less susceptible to air leakage and convection issues than stick-built walls

Image

A surface spline reduces thermal bridging much more than a structural spline at SIP panel seams

Image

ACCA - Radiant & Hydronics

Reference

Radiant, hydronics, geothermal -- they are a vital part of modern comfort and energy solutions. ACCA helps hydronics contractors operate at peak performance.

ABTCO Estimating and Installation Guide

Reference

Vinyl siding estimating and installation guide for vinyl siding products.

Install a sill gasket between the sill plate and the foundation wall

Image

Building Enclosure: Roof Overview

Video

Video describing good installation practices and features of a properly installed roof and gutter system.