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Home Build Science™ 201

Build Science™ 201

Build Science™ 201 concludes with the crucial concept of proportional thermal control in building design, highlighting the importance of balanced insulation values for different components of a house. Key areas discussed include sub-slab, walls, and windows, with a focus on achieving optimal thermal performance through understanding overall thermal resistance and R-values. While basement insulation can be lower due to minimal temperature differentials, areas exposed to significant temperature variations, like roofs, require more robust insulation strategies. Matt and Steve provide practical tips for builders, encouraging them to exceed minimum code requirements, particularly for attic insulation, to enhance comfort and energy efficiency.

Matt and Steve stress the importance of proper sequencing in construction, prioritizing water and air control layers before addressing thermal insulation to ensure a well-functioning home. By focusing on these principles, builders can create energy-efficient homes that provide optimal comfort for occupants. Build Science™ is crucial for builders and homeowners seeking to improve their understanding of thermal performance and energy efficiency in residential design.

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

Love digging deep into building science concepts and best practices? Stay tuned for the next installment in the Build Science™ series: Build Science™ 301.

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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. 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.

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