Search Content

Use the search bar above, explore content using the categories below, or log in to find your favorites.

Create An Account

Thank you for choosing to create an account with us.

Please note that creating an account is optional, but helps us better tailor the content we show you.


Please enter your email address and choose a password.

By creating an account, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy

Log in

Tell us a little about yourself


Choose Areas of Interest

Please tell us a little more about your profession.

This is optional, but lets us better tailor content to your specific interests.


You can read our policy on data collection and privacy here.

Channels that Interest You

Finally, check which channels interest you so you can see more relevant content. Choose as many as you like. You can also come back here and edit these settings later.


Share Content

Share our content with your friends and colleagues using the links below.


Sign up Forgot your password?
Home Build Science™ 201

Build Science™ 201

The discussion around air management concludes, emphasizing the importance of effective air sealing to prevent moisture-related issues and maintain building integrity, especially in colder climates. Matt and Steve emphasize the significance of implementing proper air barriers, whether located externally or internally, and advocate for a meticulous approach when creating penetrations for electrical and plumbing systems, promoting the "one hole, one wire" principle for better sealing outcomes.

Matt and Steve highlight various sealing techniques and materials, including fluid-applied sealants and neoprene acoustical sealers, to effectively prevent air and moisture leaks. Practical strategies for sealing around challenging areas, such as band joists and garage walls, are shared, underscoring the need for careful planning and execution during construction to enhance overall airtightness.

Additionally, both Matt and Steve stress the importance of training subcontractors in best practices and the value of conducting blower door tests to gauge air tightness. They encourage builders to continuously refine their practices for improved performance and advocate for proactive measures in air sealing to combat moisture issues and insect intrusion. By implementing these strategies, builders can create healthier, more efficient living environments, ultimately enhancing the quality and longevity of their constructions.

You’ve reached the end of the Air Management section of Build Science™ 201, make sure to log in or sign up to complete the Unit Quiz.

After completing the quiz, continue to the Vapor Management section of Build Science™ 201.

Sponsors

Episodes

Ep. 1 - Water Management: Protection

Episode 1    

Build Science™ emphasizes water management as critical to building protection. Matt and Steve discuss risk levels, design features, and water protection strategies, stressing planning and prioritizing for riskier designs.

Ep. 2 - Water Management: Mitigation

Episode 2    

Matt and Steve discuss water management, highlighting the importance of drainage systems like rain screens and footing drains. Proper installation and mitigation strategies prevent costly damage, emphasizing the need for clear water exit pathways.

Ep. 3 - Water Management: Prevention

Episode 3    

Matt and Steve emphasize preventing water damage through waterproofing techniques, noting 80% of construction defects stem from water issues. They highlight advanced materials, proper installation, and testing for long-term durability.

Ep. 4 - Air Management: Continuity

Episode 4    

Matt and Steve discuss the importance of continuous air barriers in maintaining airtightness, using advanced materials and techniques. They highlight "perfect wall" construction and emphasize airtightness testing for energy-efficient homes.

Ep. 5 - Air Management: Separation

Episode 5    

Matt and Steve emphasize air management, highlighting inefficiencies of placing ductwork outside conditioned spaces. They advocate for improved practices, like using vapor barriers and running ducts indoors, to enhance energy efficiency.

Ep. 7 - Vapor Management: Uniform Load

Episode 7    

Matt and Steve discuss vapor management, emphasizing the importance of adapting strategies to different climates. They explain vapor barriers, moisture management, and techniques to prevent mold and structural damage.

Ep. 8 - Vapor Management: Perspective

Episode 8    

Matt and Steve discuss vapor management as an asset, emphasizing moisture control strategies, ventilated roofs, and innovative insulation. They highlight the importance of understanding vapor dynamics for building durability and comfort.

Ep. 9 - Vapor Management: Rate

Episode 9    

Matt and Steve emphasize balancing drying and wetting potential to prevent structural damage. They highlight strategies like rain screens, ventilation, and moisture monitoring to ensure long-term durability and prevent mold in homes.

Ep. 10 - Thermal Management: Continuity

Episode 10    

Matt and Steve discuss thermal continuity, emphasizing insulation’s role in minimizing heat transfer. They highlight strategies like exterior insulation and reducing thermal bridging to improve comfort and energy efficiency in homes.

Ep. 11 - Thermal Management: Resistance

Episode 11    

Matt and Steve highlight insulation's role in heat resistance, discussing R-values, U-factors, thermal bridging, and continuous insulation. They also emphasize climate-specific techniques, shading devices, and window specifications for energy efficiency.

Ep. 12 - Thermal Management: Proportional

Episode 12    

Build Science™ 201 emphasizes proportional thermal control, highlighting balanced insulation for sub-slabs, walls, and windows. Builders should prioritize water/air control layers, exceed minimum attic insulation, and enhance energy efficiency. Build Science™ 201 emphasizes proportional thermal control, highlighting balanced insulation for sub-slabs, walls, and windows. Builders should prioritize water/air control layers, exceed minimum attic insulation, and enhance energy efficiency.

Showing result 1 to 8 of 45