Site Search

This presentation, given by Jay Crandell, ABTG/ARES Consulting, and Amy Schmidt, DuPont, at the 2020 RESNET BUILDING Performance Conference, explores why walls should be a priority and the impact of ignoring energy efficiency, durability, comfort, and serviceability.

Continuous insulation is used on foundations, exterior walls, and roofs. Continuous insulation provides maximum thermal performance by minimizing thermal bridging.  It provides optimal assemblies that dry and also minimize seasonal moisture variations, creating a stable and durable environment for the building structure and interior.

This presentation, given by Jay Crandell (ARES Consulting) and Amy Schmidt (Dow Building and Construction) at the 2018 RESNET Building Performance Conference covers topics in energy code compliance, such as calculating the R-value of a hybrid wall and determining air space performance contributions.

How does foam sheathing on home foundations or above-grade walls perform with respect to termite protection? Concerns have been brought up based on a variety of anecdotal observations. However, good science can alleviate these concerns and lead to better termite protection practices in all construction. This Educational Program summarizes the available information on termite protection and suggest key general improvements to building code provisions, especially in the ‘very heavy’ termite risk zone.

This presentation to the ASHRAE 160 hygrothermal modeling committee explains why it is important to protect OSB and other moisture-sensitive sheathing materials from excessive seasonal moisture content cycling. Building codes and current hygrothermal modeling criteria do not completely address this problem. Appropriate use of exterior continuous insulation in coordination with interior vapor retarders offer the “driest” solutions.