Air Barriers
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Residential Post-and-Frame Construction, Part 5: Insulation and Air-Sealing
Thoughts on working with mineral wool board and batt insulation and a smart vapor retarder for an air barrier
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Choosing the Right Air Barrier
A self-adhering membrane is 10 times the price of conventional housewrap. Is it worth the extra cost?
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Working with Self-Adhering WRBs
A rundown of reputable water-resistive barriers and tips for their successful installation
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Where Should the Air Barrier Be Located?
There are three options for where to put an air barrier, but one is best—in most cases
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How to Insulate a Short Attic Kneewall
Back in my home-performance contracting days (2004 to 2007), I spent a lot of time in unconditioned attics and crawlspaces. First, I was there to find problems. Then, if the…
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Study Finds OSB Sheathing Not a Reliable Air Barrier
The findings have broad implications for builders trying to meet stringent building-performance standards
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Transitioning an Air Barrier for Continuity
When moving from a vertical wall plane to a horizontal ceiling plane, it’s critical to avoid gaps
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What Do We Do With This Roof?
A homeowner looks for the right way of detailing this cathedral ceiling
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The Four Control Layers of a Wall
How water, air, vapor, and temperature controls lead to a durable building envelope and a comfortable, efficient home
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Choosing an Air Barrier and a Housewrap
If Zip System sheathing is out of the running, what's the best way to air seal the exterior of walls?
