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Home Build Science™ 301

Build Science™ 301

Matt and Steve dive into the most common—and most forgiving—roof systems in America: vented attics framed either on-site (cut roof) or off-site (truss roof). With insulation at the ceiling plane and airflow from soffit to ridge, these systems are reliable and cost-effective—but only if detailed properly. Learn how overhangs impact moisture control, why penetration placement matters, and how to ensure airtightness at critical wall-to-roof connections. Plus: solutions for wind washing, smart vapor control, and whether an “underground roof” is ever worth it.

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Episodes

Ep. 1 - Three Piece Foundation & Turned Down Slab

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

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

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. 4 - Standard Sheathed Wall & Insulated Sheathed Wall

Ep. 4 - Standard Sheathed Wall & Insulated Sheathed Wall

Episode 4    

Above-grade walls are complex due to material choices, trades, and moisture challenges. Focus on vapor control, thermal bridging, rainscreens, drying potential, material sequencing, and wall transitions.

Ep. 5 - Staggered Stud Wall & Double Stud Wall

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

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. 8 - Unvented Cut Roof & Unvented Truss Roof

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

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

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

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.

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