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Home Build Science™ 201

Build Science™ 201

The discussion on vapor management concludes with drying and wetting potential, especially concerning older homes. Matt and Steve highlight the importance of allowing materials to dry out to prevent structural damage, referencing a well-preserved 1915 house in Austin, TX, which exemplifies how effective moisture management and ventilation practices can ensure longevity. While modern homes require insulation for comfort, builders must balance wetting and drying rates to avoid mold growth. They introduce strategies like open joint rain screens and well-designed ventilation systems to manage moisture effectively in contemporary construction.

Emphasizing the need for ventilation, Matt and Steve address how proper air exchange can prevent mold and maintain a healthy indoor environment. Building science best practices include monitoring moisture levels before sealing walls to avoid trapping dampness, which could lead to future issues.

You’ve reached the end of the Vapor 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 Thermal Management section of Build Science™ 201.

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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. 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. 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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