BASC Search | Building America Solution Center

Thermal Bridges Redux, BSI-062

Reference

Article describing thermal bridging, construction practices that encourage thermal bridging, and solving thermal bridging through continuous exterior insulation.

Wrong - Unfaced fiberglass batt is not properly cut to fit in all the stud bays.

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Wrong - Double top plate seam is poorly caulked.

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Technology Solutions Case Study: Preventing Thermal Bypass

Case Study

Case study describing techniques used to prevent thermal bypass in new homes.

Wrong - Wood-to-wood and wood-to-subfloor seams not caulked or poorly caulked.

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Advanced framing showing open headers

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Spray foam is installed between new studs over the existing siding in this deep energy retrofit

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Air seal floor joist cavities under kneewall with rigid foam, plywood, or OSB caulked in place

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Form a sheet metal shield around the flue pipe

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Inspection of taped joint

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A builder, energy efficiency consultant, and crew supervisor inspect a spray foam installation.

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Right - This high-thermal-mass home uses masonry construction to naturally regulate temperatures inside the house

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Split and Notch Batts to Fit around Wires and Electrical Boxes

Reference

Job Process sheet for the manufactured housing industry showing how to split and notch insulation batts to fit around electrical boxes and wiring in a factory production environment.

Building America Building Science Advisor

Reference

Web based tool providing decision-making guidance for selecting wall assembly components.

Right - Furring strips were installed with blocking to allow adequate room for 4 inches of mineral wool.

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Rigid foam wraps this cantilevered balcony slab to provide a thermal break between the interior and exterior on this multifamily building

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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.

Step 7. Install a vent hood on the pipe to keep out rain.

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New Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Tommy Williams Homes: Longleaf Village & Belmont, Gainesville, FL

Case Study

Case study describing a production builder that achieves HERS scores of 60, compared to 85 for other builders that build new homes to Florida code.

Form sheet metal shield around pipe keeping 3-inch clearance

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The mistake of not staggering siding and foam sheathing joints

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Air Sealing Bathroom and Kitchen Exhaust Fans

Guide

Guide describing how to air-seal bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans.

Install wood framing cross pieces in the attic rafter bays on each side of the duct chase

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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.

Concrete Masonry Homes: Recommended Practices

Reference

Attachment or installation of foundations, floors, roofs, insulation, utilities, and finishes to concrete masonry walls as well as on special tools and fasteners available for use with concrete masonry.