BASC Search | Building America Solution Center

The existing slab is retrofitted with epoxy paint, rigid foam insulation, sleepers (furring strips), and subfloor.

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Venting Vapor, BSI-088

Reference

Guide providing information on controlling attic ductwork sweating.

Concrete Floor Problems, BSI-003

Reference

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

Hygric Redistribution in Insulated Assemblies: Retrofitting Residential Envelopes Without Creating Moisture Issues

Reference

Report exploring four questions to determine the level of risk associated with adding drained exterior insulation to the exterior of an existing home during an energy retrofit.

Moisture and Structural Analysis for High Performance Hybrid Wall Assemblies

Reference

Report describing the work conducted for high performance hybrid assemblies.

Measure Guideline: Internal Insulation of Masonry Walls

Reference

Report summarizing the importance of properly insulating and air sealing masonry walls, providing step by step instructions and approaches.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Field Testing an Unvented Roof with Asphalt Shingles in a Cold Climate

Case Study

Case study describing an experiment to build and instrument unvented test roofs using air-permeable insulation in a cold climate and to analyze the moisture effects over time.

The below-grade wall assembly includes dampproofing, draining details, and insulation.

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Understanding Vapor Barriers, BSD-106

Reference

Information sheet describing the function of a vapor barrier, and methods to retard the migration of water vapor.

Comprehensive water management features include a capillary break (≥ 6-mil polyethylene sheeting) at all crawlspace floors

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Parapets – Where Roofs Meet Walls, BSI-050

Reference

Report covering wind loading on roofing assemblies.

Understanding Drainage Planes, BSD-105

Reference

Guide providing information about controlling rainwater through use of drainage planes.

Radon control system as part of a water-managed and air-sealed crawlspace

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Rain Exposure Region Map

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An uninsulated (or existing insulated) basement slab is retrofitted to reduce moisture transmission by sealing with epoxy paint.

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Plan view of duct or pipe penetration through exterior wall showing flashing and air sealing details

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Section view of duct or pipe penetration through exterior wall showing flashing and air sealing details

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Plan view of electric box installation in exterior wall showing flashing and air sealing details

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Section view of electric box installation in exterior wall showing flashing and air sealing details

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Right - The existing basement slab is retrofitted by installing a dimple plastic drainage mat, rigid foam insulation, and a floating subfloor.

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The existing slab is retrofitted by coating with epoxy paint, then installing rigid foam insulation and a floating subfloor.

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READ THIS: Before You Move In, GM-0606

Reference

Report describing steps homeowners can take to improve the indoor air quality in their home, including ventilating, preventing pests, and reducing pollutants in the home.

Taping polyethylene sheeting at interior pier footings

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Technology Solutions Case Study: Moisture Durability of Vapor Permeable Insulating Sheathing

Case Study

Case study describing research about using exterior, vapor permeable insulation of retrofit walls with vapor permeable cavity insulation.

Spray foam extends down the foundation wall to the slab, which has been retrofitted by adding dimple plastic drainage mat and rigid foam insulation.

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Rigid insulation and water control layers are installed on the exterior of a flat foundation wall; spray foam insulates the rim joist

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Moisture-Safe Unvented Wood Roof Systems, RR-1001

Reference

Document describing a hygrothermal modeling study, including all of the US climate zones, a range of interior humidity levels and numerous arrangements and types of insulation.

This exterior wall retrofit permits drying to the exterior of a sill plate installed on an untreated flat foundation wall

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Bulk Water Control Methods for Foundations, BA-1015

Reference

Report about the fundamental concepts that must be understood at the planning or initial nspection of existing homes regarding surface and ground water management.

Brick wall assembly for a hot-humid climate with no Class I vapor retarder and with an air gap (drained cavity) to dissipate vapor driven into the wall by the sun.

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