BASC Search | Building America Solution Center

Rigid foam insulation can serve as the drainage plane when all seams are taped. Furring strips provide an air gap behind the cladding.

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Wrong - A typical vented crawlspace in North Carolina exhibits water leakage, poor drainage, and a low-quality vapor retarder that does not cover all of the ground surface and is not sealed to the walls.

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A self-adhering weather-resistant barrier is installed over the existing sheathing of this retrofit home to provide air sealing and a drainage plane before installing new metal and wood siding on the home.

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Wrong - Class I vapor retarder over framed basement walls can cause condensation, mold, and rotting because plastic prevents drying to the inside; the outside should have waterproofing and vertical drainage, and the framing should be spaced from the wall.

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Water Managed Wall Systems, PA-0301

Reference

Document outlining a well-detailed drainage plane and flashings.

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

Guide

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.

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

Guide

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

Radon Fan

Guide

Guide describing how to install a radon mitigation fan to actively remove radon from the home.

Building Science Introduction - Moisture Flow

Information Guide

Information guide describing the concept of moisture flow in residential buildings.

No Vapor Retarders on Interior Side of Air-Permeable Foundation Insulation

Guide

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

Condensation Control for Walls in Cold Weather

Guide

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