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™ 301

Build Science™ 301

Kicking off the Above-Grade Walls section, Matt and Steve dive into why these assemblies are some of the most complex in the building envelope—loaded with material choices, multiple trades, and moisture challenges. From standard framing to walls with continuous exterior insulation, they break down the nuances of vapor control, thermal bridging, and the power of rainscreens. Learn how to manage drying potential, proper material sequencing, and why wall transitions are often where the real action happens.

Sponsors

Episodes

Ep. 1 - Three Piece Foundation & Turned Down Slab

Episode 1    

Steve and Matt discuss slab-on-grade versus turn-down-slab details to introduce the format for Build Science 301 episodes on assembly analysis and detailing solutions.

Ep. 2 - Basement Foundation & Crawlspace Foundation

Episode 2    

Matt and Steve prioritize solving water, air, vapor, and thermal control issues in crawlspaces and basements in that order to create a successful foundation system.

Ep. 3 - Pier Foundation & Insulated Concrete Form Foundation

Episode 3    

Matt and Steve discuss pier-supported floors and insulated concrete forms (ICFs) in the third episode of the Foundation section, offering solutions for challenging sites with unique performance considerations.

Ep. 5 - Staggered Stud Wall & Double Stud Wall

Episode 5    

Staggered stud and double stud walls offer excellent thermal control, but require careful consideration of moisture management and airtightness for optimal performance in both hot and cold climates.

Ep. 6 - Perfect Wall & Larsen Truss Wall

Episode 6    

The Perfect Wall and Larsen Truss Wall are elite wall assemblies with high thermal performance, requiring rigorous moisture management and essential rainscreens and air barriers.

Ep. 7 - Vented Cut Roof & Vented Truss Roof

Episode 7    

Matt and Steve discuss vented attics with insulation at the ceiling plane. Proper detailing is key for cost-effective and reliable performance, including addressing overhangs and airtightness at critical connections.

Ep. 8 - Unvented Cut Roof & Unvented Truss Roof

Episode 8    

Explore unvented roof assemblies for efficient HVAC integration but ensure airtightness and insulation ratios for proper moisture control. Mechanical ventilation is crucial for mitigating condensation risks in various climates.

Ep. 9 - Cathedralized Vented Roof & Vented Scissor Truss Roof

Episode 9    

In a vented cathedralized ceiling with a scissor truss, strategic insulation and airflow planning is required for optimal performance. Air sealing techniques and proper ventilation are key.

Ep. 10 - Over Vent Cut Roof & Unvented "Monopoly” Truss Roof

Episode 10    

Innovative roof designs like the Over Vent Cut Roof and Monopoly Truss Roof simplify control layer connections, improving overall high performance and airtightness.

Ep. 11 - Flat Roof Cavity Insulated & Flat Roof Over Insulated

Episode 11    

Flat roofs pose unique challenges due to lack of ventilation. Options include insulating within roof cavity or using rigid insulation above for resilience and airtightness.

Showing result 1 to 8 of 45