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Home Build Science™ 301

Build Science™ 301

Matt and Steve explore unvented roof assemblies, framed either on-site (cut roof) or off-site (truss), and explain how moisture control shifts away from the structure and onto building systems. With HVAC now inside conditioned space, these assemblies can be efficient—but only if detailed with airtightness and proper insulation ratios. Learn how to avoid condensation risks, why mechanical ventilation is critical, and how to get the balance right in different climates.

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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. 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

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. 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.

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