Crandell’s presentation provides an excellent primer on the many applications of continuous insulation based on a comprehensive body of building science knowledge resulting in recent building code and energy code advancements.
In this article we’ll present the two methods that work together to achieve compliance with modern energy code air leakage requirements.
Unlike boats, a building’s walls must have some capability to “breathe” instead of being totally impervious to all forms of water.
For a boat hull, it is best to essentially eliminate wetting potential with the use of a highly water- and vapor- resistive hull, or at least outer coating on the hull, right?
In the U.S., our understanding of air leakage through building envelopes has evolved over the course of 100 years or more.
Thermal bridges in walls can reduce the overall performance of a building. In addition, ignoring thermal bridges can result in significantly over-estimated building performance and moisture condensation ultimately leading to corrosion, mold, rot and more.
Today, it is well understood that controlling air leakage through building envelopes by proper use of air sealing materials and methods is crucial for many reasons.
In past articles, we have extensively covered the benefits that foam plastic continuous insulation provides for all types of construction in all climates.
R25 does not equal R20+5ci Why? Thermal bridging! The added R5ci reduces heat loss through both the wall cavity and the framing members
Tom Walker of British Plastics and Rubber says that “One trend in the [British] construction market is the use of pre-fabricated Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS).