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Home Build Science™ 201

Build Science™ 201

The crucial conversation around vapor management continues. Steve presents vapor as an asset rather than a liability, emphasizing the necessity of strategic moisture management to prevent issues like mold and structural damage. Both Matt and Steve showcase practical applications of vapor management, including the "perfect wall" (not the first or last time you’ll hear about the “perfect wall” when discussing Build Science™) concept and innovative insulation strategies that facilitate moisture management and drying.

The discussion shifts to advanced roofing techniques, stressing the importance of ventilated roofs, especially in high-moisture climates. These roofs enhance airflow and drying, significantly reducing the risk of leaks and related damage. Innovative design elements, such as open joint cladding and effective ventilation systems, are discussed for their aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Matt and Steve reiterate the significance of managing both water and air to minimize vapor issues, advocating for the use of permeable materials throughout most parts of a home while ensuring tight air seals where needed. Understanding vapor dynamics is essential for ensuring the durability and comfort of modern buildings, making this discussion invaluable for builders and architects alike.

Continue to the next episode in the Vapor Management section: Rate.

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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. 6 - Air Management: Escalation

Episode 6    

Matt and Steve emphasize effective air sealing to prevent moisture issues, highlighting techniques like fluid-applied sealants, meticulous penetrations, and blower door tests. They advocate for continuous improvement and training for airtight, efficient homes.

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. 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.

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