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Information guide listing Building America Solution Center guides that describe ways to air-seal and insulate a new or existing home's walls to resist heat gain.

Information guide describing proper attic air-sealing, insulation, and ventilation to combat ice dam formation on roofs in cold climate zones.

Information guide providing links to guides describing specific ways to air-seal, insulate, and ventilate attics and roofs to minimize heat gain in new and existing homes.

Table adapted from Table R402.1.1 in the 2009 and 2012 IECC and Table R402.1.2 in the 2015 and 2018 IECC (Table N1102.1 in 2009 IRC, Table 1102.1.1 in 2012 IRC, and Table N1102.1.2 in 2015 and 2018 IRC).

Typical R-values for common insulation materials are summarized in this table, which also identifies the vapor retarder classification for each insulation.

Information guide providing background information about heat flow in residential buildings.

Information guide describing how to apply a whole-house approach to home improvement with energy efficiency upgrades, improved indoor air quality, and increased comfort.

Information guide describing things to consider in the attic, ceiling, or roof before attempting retrofits of items including HVAC, wiring, or structural systems.

Information guide describing things to consider in the basement or crawlspace before attempting retrofits of adjacent items including HVAC, wiring, or structural systems.

Information guide providing an overview of winter weather issues for home owners and building science solutions for home builders.

Information guide describing ways to design a home to be resistant to extreme heat.

Information guide describing things to consider before attempting retrofits that may include hazardous materials.

Information guide providing an overview of pest-resistant construction practices and guides in the Building America Solution Center for home builders.

Guide describing the use of attic ventilation fans to mechanically pull outside air through the attic in an attempt to cool the attic, control moisture, and prevent ice dams.

Information guide describing things to consider before retrofitting walls, windows, and doors, including wiring, moisture protection, and lead paints.

Information guide describing the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home, Version 1, requirements for high-performance windows.

Information guide describing how to calculate attic passive ventilation with example calculations.

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...

Guide describing steps that builders can take to reduce the likelihood of standing water and localized flooding around the foundation of a home during rainy conditions, with links to several full guides providing detailed instructions for improving water management in new and existing homes.

Information guide providing background information about moisture flow in residential buildings.

This information guide describes the maximum air leakage limit requirements for DOE ZERH certified homes.

Information guide describing best practices for ensuring the safety of those returning to a home after a disaster.

Overview guide providing background information on extreme heat in the United States as it relates to homes and links to guides describing specific ways to make homes more resistant to extreme heat.

Information guide describing considerations for before retrofitting HVAC systems, retrofit scope considerations, and HVAC system replacement options.

Overview guide describing how to prepare homes to be resistant to earthquake forces.

Information guide providing background information about air flow in residential buildings.

Overview guide outlining home construction techniques used in hurricane and high wind areas.

Information guide describing constructed flood protection measures to minimize damage and increase structural resilience during a flood.

Guide describing how to evaluate existing ventilations systems before performing home upgrades.

Information guide describing things to consider before attempting retrofits including any combustion appliances, or that may affect them.