Insulation, Air Sealing

Glue the rim joist, caulk the gaps, and overhang the wall sheathing to tighten this leaky building assembly

Thin foil can block massive amounts of heat transfer, but it needs a massive temperature difference to be effective. So, insulation sort of makes radiant barriers irrelevant.

For walls with a pre-applied weather barrier, make sure the tape is compatible with the WRB coating—or use a primer

Furring and foam on the INSIDE for better walls in really cold places.

The most effective (and easiest) time to detail the air barrier is during the framing stage. If it isn't specified during design, ain't no way the framers are gonna get it right.

Framing a roof with I-joists over the existing roof makes a ton of room for insulation and offers a short lesson in vapor movement through assemblies

Condensation is when moisture in the air hits a cool enough surface to convert the vapor into water.

Four ways to prevent ice dams in three types of roof, for two climates in one video. Boom.

Counting down the top 15 pages of 2016. This one is #2. Stop rot with house wrap

Hands-on training with local pros at the largest construction event in the Northeast

A big problem, for roofs in cold climates, but what causes it and how can you fix it?

A tight air barrier is the best way to build an energy-efficient house. Outside the sheathing are many chances to make it better.

Keep mechanical equipment within the envelope to improve the quality of houses and homes

A thermal break and solid backing puts the window on the outer face of a thick wall. Now, there's room on the inside window sill for cats and bowling trophies

Stack effect is relentless: it is always working, when you’re awake or asleep, even during blackouts. And it feeds on itself.