BASC Search | Building America Solution Center

Permanent awnings help minimize unwanted solar heat gain from high overhead summer sun.

Right- Landscaping shades the entry on the south west corner of this hot dry climate building.

Publication Date

Fri, 09/30/2022 - 12:00

Table of Maximum Fenestration U-Factor Requirements for New Homes as Listed in the 2009-2021 IECC and IRC

The maximum U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) requirements for fenestration (windows) and skylights in new homes, as listed in the 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2021 International Energy Code (IECC) and the 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), can be...

Single framed wall converted to double wall and insulated with closed-cell spray foam

Right – deeply inset entryways and overhangs provide shade to reduce solar heat entry to this building.

Publication Date

Fri, 09/30/2022 - 12:00

Thermal mass stained concrete slab absorb solar heat during the day and release it into the rooms at night.

Landscaping and Bahama shutters can provide important shade for a designated cool room

Publication Date

Mon, 11/14/2022 - 12:00

Wrong - House wrap and flashing tape are poorly installed allowing water to get into the gaps behind flashing tape.

Publication Date

Wed, 07/07/2021 - 12:00

Right – Deep overhangs, pergolas, and covered entryways minimize heat gain in this commercial building in the hot-dry climate.

Publication Date

Fri, 09/30/2022 - 12:00

Overview of Convection in Buildings

Publication Date

September, 2020

Author(s)

Dillon

Organization(s)

PNNL

This video provides an overview of convection in buildings, with an introduction to Newton's Law of cooling.

Wrong – The south side of this building in Arizona has very little architectural or landscape shading to block solar heat gain.

Publication Date

Fri, 09/30/2022 - 12:00

There are multiple options for exterior shading of east and west facing glazing systems to avoid direct beam radiation

Accordion-type hurricane shutters protect sliding glass doors from high winds and wind-borne debris.

Publication Date

Fri, 01/01/2021 - 12:00

Building America Top Innovations 2013: Zero Energy-Ready Single-Family Homes

Author(s)

Davis Energy Group,

Steven Winter Associates,

Florida Solar Energy Center,

Building Science Corporation,

Home Innovation Research Labs,

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Organization(s)

ARBI,

CARB,

SWA,

FSEC,

BA-PIRC,

BSC,

IBACOS,

PHI,

HIRL,

PNNL

Publication Date

September, 2013

Case study describing a 2013 DOE Building America Top Innovation about construction of net-zero energy ready homes, by several builders working with various DOE Building America research partners including Steven Winter Associates, Building Science Corporation, Home Innovation Research Labs, IBACOS...

DOE ZERH HIA 2017 Case Study: Thrive Home Builders, Lowry Plan, Denver, CO

Author(s)

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory,

U.S. Department of Energy

Organization(s)

PNNL,

DOE

Publication Date

September, 2017

Case study describing a DOE Zero Energy Ready Home 2017 Housing Innovation Award winner that scored HERS 38 without PV and 4 with PV.

Introduction to Heat Transfer

Publication Date

September, 2020

Author(s)

Dillon

Organization(s)

PNNL

This video provides an overview of heat transfer and discusses how heat transfer occurs in residential buildings.

Concrete slab pan flashing for doors

Publication Date

Fri, 05/01/2009 - 12:00

Sheet metal pan flashing for doors

Publication Date

Fri, 05/01/2009 - 12:00

Weatherstripping

Author(s)

South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff

Organization(s)

South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff

Publication Date

October, 2024

Article describing an overview of weatherstripping requirements.

Structural headers are not needed on nonbearing walls

Publication Date

Tue, 03/01/2011 - 12:00

Passive Solar Design Principles

Publication Date

October, 2013

Author(s)

Master Builders Victoria

Organization(s)

Master Builders Victoria

Video from Master Builders Victoria on passive solar design principles for home construction.

Fully Sealed Continuous Weather Resistance Barrier (3)

Publication Date

September, 2015

Video describing how to fully seal a continuous weather resistance barrier.

Right – Horizontal overhangs on this house block sunlight in the summer while allowing it in during winter

DOE ZERH HIA 2013 Case Study: e2 Homes, Winter Park, Florida

Author(s)

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory,

U.S. Department of Energy

Organization(s)

PNNL,

DOE

Publication Date

January, 2013

Case study describing a DOE Zero Energy Ready Home 2013 Housing Innovation Award Winner in Winter Park FL that scored HERS 57 without PV or HERS -7 with PV.

Panel Closures

Publication Date

November, 2016

Video explaining how to prepare a home for flood conditions using temporary panel closures recommended by LSU AgCenter.

Infrared photometry shows the impact of a roof overhang on the south façade of a home, where the unshaded patio stonework is significantly hotter than the shaded portions of the patio and wall surfaces (temperature scale shown is in Celsius).

Exterior shading devices such as awnings or overhangs can significantly reduce cooling loads

Publication Date

Sun, 10/14/2007 - 12:00

Insulated header made of one piece of plywood aligned with exterior wall, with room for insulation to inside

Publication Date

Mon, 02/01/2010 - 12:00

How Vulnerable is Your Home to a Wildfire?

Publication Date

September, 2019

Author(s)

PG&E

Organization(s)

PG&E

Video from PG&E outlining building material-related steps to take to take to lower the risk of home ignition during a fire.

These retractable awnings provide shad to this outdoor living space and reduce heat gain and glare within the home.

Right - These retractable awnings provide shade to this outdoor living space and reduce heat gain and glare within the home.

Publication Date

Wed, 07/19/2023 - 12:00

How to Design a Home for a Cold Climate

Author(s)

Diez Roy

Organization(s)

New Home Source

Publication Date

July, 2020

Article summarizing for potential homeowners items to check or demand from the builder in designing a home for a cold climate.

Why Seal and Insulate?

Author(s)

ENERGY STAR

Organization(s)

ENERGY STAR

Publication Date

August, 2020

Introductory guide to air sealing the envelope of a home to reduce wasted energy and save on energy costs.

High Performance Building Details - Advanced Framing II

Author(s)

Steven Winter Associates,

Consortium for Advanced Residential Buildings

Organization(s)

CARB,

SWA

Publication Date

July, 2010

Brochure describing advanced framing techniques.

Right – Appropriate door framing installed

Publication Date

Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00

Insulated header made of two pieces of plywood that sandwich a layer of rigid foam insulation

Publication Date

Sat, 01/01/2011 - 12:00

Dry Floodproofing

Publication Date

November, 2016

Video from LSU AgCenter describing dry floodproofing and how to dry floodproof your home.

Right – This model home for the Solar Decathlon competition incorporates vertical trellises and retractable exterior blinds to control solar heat gain.

Exterior shading devices such as these Bahama shutters can significantly increase the hours of safety provided by a home during an extreme heat event.

Publication Date

Tue, 07/18/2023 - 12:00

Hurricane Shutter Types

Author(s)

Hurricane Research Division,

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Organization(s)

NOAA

Publication Date

July, 2023

NOAA webpage providing images and short descriptions of different types of hurricane shutters.

Sustainable Living Series

Author(s)

Office of Sustainability

Organization(s)

Washington University St. Louis

Publication Date

October, 2019

Presentation by the Washington University in St. Louis Office of Sustainability on saving energy.

Right – Verify continuous rigid insulation is installed

Publication Date

Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00

Right – Verify SIP headers are installed

Publication Date

Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00

Wrong – Excessive and structurally unnecessary framing at door

Publication Date

Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00

Install trim and cap flashing

Publication Date

Fri, 12/01/2006 - 12:00

Hurricane Straps

Publication Date

September, 2020

Author(s)

FLASH Strong Home

Organization(s)

FLASH

Video describing hurricane ties and how they make your home more ready for severe weather by strengthening structural connections.

Rebuilding After a Wildfire

Author(s)

Federal Emergency Management Agency

Organization(s)

FEMA

Publication Date

January, 2016

Fact sheet describing conditions for wildfire, how a home catches fire, how to create a survivable space, the ideal fire resistant home.

Right – Flashing is installed around chimney, skylight, vents, dormers, in valleys and at eaves

Publication Date

Mon, 06/01/2020 - 12:00

Evaluation of Interior Cellular Shades in a Residential Building

Author(s)

Bhandari Mahabir,

Kunwar Niraj,

Gehl Anthony,

Curcija Charlie

Organization(s)

Oak Ridge National Laboratory,

ORNL,

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory,

LBNL

Publication Date

March, 2021

DOE-sponsored report describing a study investigating the energy savings potential of cellular shades in homes.

NJARNG Sustainability Newsletter June 2016 Volume 2 – Issue 2

Author(s)

New Jersey Army National Guard

Organization(s)

NJARNG

Publication Date

June, 2016

Newsletter providing news and information to members of the New Jersey National Guard.

Prepare Your Home Ahead of Severe Thunderstorms

Author(s)

Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety

Organization(s)

IBHS

Publication Date

September, 2020

Website providing guidance on how to reduce the risk of damage to a home from hail.

Right – Side flashing extends over the pan flashing

Publication Date

Tue, 02/01/2011 - 12:00

Small Commercial Building Fact Sheet - Building Envelope

Author(s)

Southface Energy Institute

Organization(s)

SEI

Publication Date

November, 2016

Fact sheet describing building envelope performance measures applicable to residential and small commercial construction.

Advanced Framing: Insulated Headers

Guide describing how to insulate headers over doors and windows to reduce heat loss and heat gain through solid wood framing.

Right – Verify two member headers with rigid insulation between are installed

Publication Date

Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00

Right – Verify single member headers with insulation on one side are installed

Publication Date

Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00

Prepare to Avoid the Dangers of Flying Debris

Publication Date

February, 2019

Video showing the importance of preparing your home for flying debris common in severe weather per IBHS FORTIFIED Home guidelines.

The Weather Channel - Protecting Openings

Publication Date

September, 2019

Video showing steps to take to prepare openings in homes for a hurricane or high wind event as explained by the Weather Channel and IBHS Fortified Home.

This metal shutter has top and bottom tracks that are permanently anchored to the wall (FEMA 577).

Publication Date

Fri, 06/01/2007 - 12:00

Construction & Design Considerations in Warmer Climates

Author(s)

Zero Energy Project

Organization(s)

Zero Energy Project

Publication Date

January, 2022

Guidance from Zero Energy Project on construction techniques for warmer climates, such as home orientation, and insulation requirements.

Keeping Homes and Cities Cool in Extreme Heat

Author(s)

Kyle Mittan

Organization(s)

University of Arizona

Publication Date

June, 2021

Article from University of Arizona on keeping homes cool during extreme heat, both personal and system changes.

Retrofit Improvements: Flash and Seal Roof Penetrations

Author(s)

Home Innovation Research Labs

Organization(s)

HIRL

Publication Date

June, 2020

Fact sheet describing flashing of roof penetrations to make a home more resistant to high winds, hurricanes, and rainwater intrusion.

Wrong – Fibrous insulation is not an air barrier and cannot be used to air-seal openings.

Publication Date

Fri, 10/28/2011 - 12:00

Be Prepared For Extreme Heat, FEMA V-1004

Author(s)

Federal Emergency Management Agency

Organization(s)

FEMA

Publication Date

June, 2018

Information sheet from FEMA on preparation for extreme heat, including measures for keeping homes cool.

Wrong – The corners are not properly flashed, leaving a vulnerable area in the drainage system

Publication Date

Tue, 02/01/2011 - 12:00

Advanced framing details throughout house including insulated and open headers

Publication Date

Thu, 02/16/2012 - 12:00

FEMA P-804 Envelope and Structural Assessment, Excerpted

Publication Date

Wed, 12/01/2010 - 12:00

Right - Automatic metal roller shutters are always in place and can be electronically or manually opened and closed.

Publication Date

Tue, 01/01/2019 - 12:00

These folding louvered porch doors provide effective shade from low-angle east and west sunlight and can open for views; the photovoltaic panels overhead allow in filtered natural light

NFRC 100A-2010 Procedure for Determining Fenestration Attachment Product U-factors

Author(s)

National Fenestration Rating Council

Organization(s)

NFRC

Publication Date

January, 2010

Standard providing a procedure for determining fenestration attachment product U-factors.

Is Your Home Protected from Hurricane Disaster? A Homeowner’s Guide to Hurricane Retrofit

Author(s)

Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety

Organization(s)

IBHS

Publication Date

January, 2002

Report describing ways to retrofit a home to make it more hurricane resistant.

Wind Safety of the Building Envelope

Author(s)

Smith Tom

Organization(s)

Whole Building Design Guide,

WBDG

Publication Date

June, 2017

Article discussing structural and nonstructural building components and illustrates a variety of wind-induced damages, including wind-driven rain infiltration.

Protect Your Home in a FLASH - DIY Plywood Hurricane Shutters

Publication Date

August, 2011

Video showing how to make DIY high winds/hurricane shutters to prepare for severe weather per FLASH Strong Homes guidelines.

How To Evaluate Opening Protection Systems

Publication Date

March, 2008

Video showing how to evaluate openings in homes in hurricane and high wind prone areas per FLASH Strong Homes guidelines.

Hurricane Emergency Board Up Animation - FLASH, Inc.

Publication Date

April, 2007

Video showing how to board up a home properly in preparation for high wind or hurricane events per FLASH Strong Homes guidelines.

FEMA P-804 Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Wind Hazard Protection Levels

Publication Date

Wed, 12/01/2010 - 12:00

Resilient Home Solutions

Publication Date

August, 2020

Video overviewing how to make a home flood resistant, meaning that they can be quickly restored to their original condition after a natural disaster. Recommendations from LSU AgCenter.

Hurricane shutter styles include colonial, Bahama, roll-up, and accordion shutters.

Publication Date

Wed, 12/01/2010 - 12:00

Common methods for plywood shutter attachment to wood-frame and masonry walls.

Publication Date

Wed, 12/01/2010 - 12:00

This hot climate zone home uses high quality batt insulation to insulate truss-joist headers.

Publication Date

Thu, 01/01/2015 - 12:00

NFRC 200A-2010 - Procedure for Determining Fenestration Attachment Product Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and Visible Transmittance

Author(s)

National Fenestration Rating Council

Organization(s)

NFRC

Publication Date

January, 2010

Standard for determining fenestration attachment product SHGC and visible transmittance.

Right – The flashing is properly installed to create a complete drainage system with continuous rigid insulation sheathing/siding

Publication Date

Tue, 02/01/2011 - 12:00

The unprotected glazing in this door was broken by roof tiles dislodged by wind.

Publication Date

Mon, 08/01/2005 - 12:00

Right - These homes have hurricane shutters to protect against high winds and to provide solar control.

Publication Date

Wed, 12/01/2010 - 12:00

Seismic Safety of the Building Envelope

Author(s)

Arnold Chris

Organization(s)

Whole Building Design Guide,

WBDG,

National Institute of Building Sciences,

NIBS

Publication Date

November, 2016

Article outlining the key issues related to the protection of the building envelope against seismic forces.

Glazing Hazard Mitigation

Author(s)

Smith Joseph L,

Renfroe Nancy A

Organization(s)

Whole Building Design Guide,

WBDG,

Applied Research Associates Inc.,

National Institute of Building Sciences,

NIBS

Publication Date

November, 2016

Article describing the fundamentals and basics of glazing hazard mitigation practices for both new and existing buildings.

Energy Facts: Energy Tips - Selection and Comparison of Weatherstripping Materials

Author(s)

Michigan State University Extension

Organization(s)

Michigan State University Extension

Publication Date

October, 2024

Fact sheet describing weatherstripping materials, types, expected life expectancy, installation requirements, and pros and cons.

High Performance Builder Spotlight: LifeStyle Homes

Author(s)

Florida Solar Energy Center

Organization(s)

FSEC,

BA-PIRC

Publication Date

March, 2014

Case study describing a new home construction project in Florida.

2017 Florida Building Code – Building, Sixth Edition

Author(s)

International Code Council,

Florida Building Commission

Organization(s)

ICC,

FBC

Publication Date

July, 2017

Florida building code including all the amendments and additions by Florida for the wind-borne debris regions and the high-velocity hurricane zone.

Leveraging Limited Scope for Maximum Benefit in Occupied Renovation of Uninsulated Cold Climate Multifamily Housing

Author(s)

Neuhauser Ken,

Bergey Daniel,

Osser Rosie

Organization(s)

Building Science Corporation,

BSC,

U.S. Department of Energy,

DOE

Publication Date

March, 2012

Report examining performance measures in the context of a large-scale renovation project.

Van Geet Off-Grid Home: An Integrated Approach to Energy Savings

Author(s)

National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Organization(s)

NREL

Publication Date

August, 2004

Report about a project with successful integration of numerous energy-conservation and renewable-energy features into a beautiful, comfortable, and very energy-efficient off-grid home.

Thermal Performance of External Roller Blinds Retrofit for Offices in the United Kingdom

Author(s)

Ylitalo Hanna,

Ip Kenneth,

Marshal David

Organization(s)

University of Brighton

Publication Date

July, 2023

Conference paper describing a proof of concept trial that demonstrated that external roller blinds can reduce heating loads in a room by 20%.

How To Strengthen Your Home for Under $10,000 – Insulated Concrete Forms

Publication Date

September, 2014

Video interview explaining the benefits of installing insulated concrete forms for both energy efficiency and disaster resistance in either new or existing homes for under $10,000. Recommendations from FLASH Strong Homes.

Anchorage failure in sliding glass doors due to negative pressures from hurricane force winds.

Publication Date

Fri, 04/01/2005 - 12:00

DOE Siding Retrofit: Cedar Siding Retrofit, Bellingham, WA

Author(s)

Theresa Gilbride,

Kohta Ueno

Organization(s)

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory,

PNNL,

Building Science Corporation,

BSC

Publication Date

December, 2022

Case study describing a wall retrofit of a 1970s cedar-sided home in Bellingham WA that included adding 2 inches of cork insulation while replacing the existing cedar siding.

Report: 56th & Walnut - A Philly Gut Rehab Development

Author(s)

Puttagunta Srikanth,

Zoeller William,

Faakye Omari

Organization(s)

CARB,

Steven Winter Associates,

SWA

Publication Date

July, 2013

Report researching cost- effective solution packages for significant energy efficiency and indoor air quality improvements masonry multifamily urban buildings.

Retrofit of a MultiFamily Mass Masonry Building in New England

Author(s)

Ueno Kohta,

Kerrigan Philip,

Wytrykowska Honorata,

Van Straaten R

Organization(s)

Building Science Corporation,

BSC

Publication Date

August, 2013

Research study about a high performance retrofit of an existing brick building (a former convent) into condominiums, all affordable housing.

Wrong – This electric wiring hole was filled with foam that is not protected with copper mesh or hardware cloth so rodents could chew through the foam and enter the house (see Solution Center Guide "Reduce Pest Intrusion").

Publication Date

Mon, 09/01/2014 - 12:00

Air Sealing Colorado Homes – 10.634

Author(s)

Weiner C.

Organization(s)

Colorado State University,

U.S. Department of Agriculture,

USDA

Publication Date

July, 2019

Fact sheet describing air-sealing concerns and remedies, including HRV/ERV installation, caulking, spray foam, and weatherstrip installation.

Cut I in housewrap

Reference

Building America Best Practices Series - 40% Whole-House Energy Savings in the Cold and Very Cold Climates, Volume 12

Author(s)

Baechler Michael C,

Gilbride Theresa L,

Hefty Marye G,

Cole Pam C,

Love Pat M

Organization(s)

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory,

PNNL,

Oak Ridge National Laboratory,

ORNL,

U.S. Department of Energy,

DOE

Guide describing measures that builders in the cold and very cold climates can take to build homes that have whole-house energy savings of 40% over the Building America benchmark with no added overall costs for consumers.

Publication Date

Sat, 04/21/2012 - 12:00

Adding Insulation when Re-Siding

Author(s)

Gilbride Theresa L

Organization(s)

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory,

PNNL

Publication Date

June, 2023

Fact sheet poster describing how to add exterior, continuous, rigid insulation to the exterior walls when replacing siding on an existing home.