An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock (
) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.
The Guide addresses walls constructed with 2x4 wood frame studs, wood structural panel (WSP) sheathing as wall bracing and added backing for foam sheathing, a layer of rigid foam sheathing insulation up to 1.5 in. thick over the WSP, and a cladding system installed over the foam sheathing in low...
Video from Florida Film & Tape outlining the range of termites across the US, the damage they can cause to wood, and preventative measures to avoid termite infestation.
Video presentation from PMP TV covering different building strategies as they relate to different slab and foundation types and building materials to keep out termites.
Video from Home Innovation Research Labs giving an overview on engineered wood products and L-joist systems and their uses in residential construction.
Video from Home Innovation Research Labs showing how to temporarily brace an engineered wood floor L-joist system for safe usage during the construction phase.
Video from FIRESafe Marin explaining how decks can be a major weak point for embers to ignite. Proper construction and materials shown in the video reduce the risk of ignition.
2018 edition of code for commercial buildings that brings together all structural, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, energy and electrical provisions for all buildings except detached one- and two-family residences and townhouses up to three stories.
Video presentation from the National Fire Protection Association with Dr. Jack Cohen, a fire science researcher with the USDA Forest Service, explaining steps to take to protect critical parts of a home from igniting due to flames and embers.
Webinar from Tom Patton of Fox Blocks on how changes to building codes are driving changes to framing assemblies and insulation, highlighting how ICFs can take over for traditional wood frame wall assemblies. Free EEBA login required.
Report informing building stakeholders about the risks a snow event poses to their buildings, preventative measures to take before the snow season, and actions that should be taken before, during, and after a snow event.
Video showing how to protect your home against both earthquakes and high winds and how similar design strategies can work for both events per FLASH Strong Homes guidelines.
A publication highlighting recommendations that contribute to improved overall performance in the structural shell and focus on good connection details to tie together exterior walls, roofs and floors.
Video interview explaining the use of Simpson Strong Tie connectors for making walls and roofs more disaster resistant at a price of under $10,000. Recommendations from FLASH Strong Homes program.
Wildfire construction guidelines from the Colorado State Forest Service focusing on site design and building materials to mitigate damage to homes in wildfire-prone areas.
Report providing design guidance for wood-framed residential construction in high wind areas where design wind velocity requirements do not exceed 140 miles per hour.