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AIR CONDITIONING & HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings

INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE

INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
INTERIORS of buildings

ACOUSTICAL SEALANT CHOICES
AIR BYPASS LEAKS
AIR CHANGE RATE ACH HEAT SAVINGS
AIR CLEANER PURIFIER TYPES

AIR FILTER EFFECTIVENESS
AIR FILTERS for HVAC SYSTEMS
AIR FILTERS, OPTIMUM INDOOR
AIR FILTERS, SOURCES FOR
AIR FILTERING STRATEGIES
AIR FILTERING CONTINUOUS FAN OPERATION
AIR HANDLER / BLOWER UNITS

AIR LEAK DETECTION TOOLS
AIR LEAK MINIMIZATION
AIR LEAK SEALING PROCEDURE
AIR POLLUTANTS, COMMON INDOOR
AIR SEALING STRATEGIES

ANIMAL ALLERGENS
APPLIANCE EFFICIENCY RATINGS
ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION
ASBESTOS-FREE INSULATION MATERIALS
ASBESTOS IDENTIFICATION IN buildings
ATTIC LEAKS, CONDENSATION & ATTIC MOLD
ATTIC VENTILATION

BASEMENT CEILING VAPOR BARRIER
BASEMENT HEAT LOSS
BASEMENT LEAKS, INSPECT FOR
BASEMENT WATERPROOFING

BATH & KITCHEN DESIGN GUIDE
BATHROOM VENTILATION
BIOGAS PRODUCTION & USE
BLOWER DOORS & AIR INFILTRATION
BLOWER FAN CONTINUOUS OPERATION
BLOWER FAN OPERATION & TESTING
BLOWN-IN INSULATION

BRICK LINED WALLS
BRICK VENEER WALL INSULATION
BRICK VENEER WALL Loose, Bulged
BRICK WALL DRAINAGE WEEP HOLES
BUCKLED FOUNDATIONS due to INSULATION?
BUILDING NOISE DIAGNOSIS & CURE

CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
CEILING FINISHES INTERIOR
CEILINGS, DROP or SUSPENDED PANEL
CEILINGS, PLASTER TYPES

CHIMNEY INSPECTION DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
COMBUSTION AIR for TIGHT buildings
CONDENSING BOILERS/FURNACES DAMAGE

CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
CEILING FINISHES INTERIOR
CEILINGS, DROP or SUSPENDED PANEL
CEILINGS, PLASTER TYPES

CHIMNEY INSPECTION DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
COMBUSTION AIR for TIGHT BUILDINGS
CONDENSING BOILERS/FURNACES DAMAGE
CONDENSATION or SWEATING PIPES, TANKS
COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
CRAWL SPACES

DEFINITION of Heating & Cooling Terms
DEHUMIDIFICATION PROBLEMS
DEW POINT CALCULATION for WALLS
DEW POINT TABLE - CONDENSATION POINT GUIDE
DUCT SYSTEM & DUCT DEFECTS

ELECTRIC HEAT
ELECTRIC POWER, PHOTOVOLTAIC, REMOTE SITE
ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings
ENERGY STAR PROGRAM
EVAPORATIVE COOLING SYSTEMS

ENERGY AUDIT - How to Use a Free One
ENERGY SAVINGS MAXIMIZE RETURNS ON
ENERGY SAVINGS PRIORITIES
ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT CASE STUDY
ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT LEAK SEALING GUIDE
ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT OPTIONS
ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS - INSPECT, TEST, REMEDY

EXTERIOR WALL SIDING TRIM & FINISHES

FIBERGLASS INSULATION
FIBERGLASS HAZARDS
FIBERGLASS INSULATION MOLD

FLASHING MEMBRANES PEEL & STICK
FLAT ROOF MOISTURE & CONDENSATION

FLOOD DAMAGE ASSESSMENT, SAFETY & CLEANUP
FLOODS IN buildings-mold

FLOOR, CONCRETE SLAB CHOICES
FLOOR, CONCRETE SLAB POURED FINISH
FLOOR DAMAGE DIAGNOSIS
FLOOR RADIANT HEAT Mistakes to Avoid
FLOOR TYPES & DEFECTS

FOUNDATION WATERPROOFING
FRENCH DRAINS
FRAMING DETAILS for BETTER INSULATION
FRAMING DETAILS for DOUBLE WALL HOUSES
FRAMING METAL STUD PERFORMANCE
FREEZE-PROOF A BUILDING
FROST HEAVES, FOUNDATION, SLAB

GREEN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION CODES GUIDES
GREENHOUSE DESIGN for SOLAR HEATING

HEAT LOSS in buildings
HEAT LOSS RATE CALCULATIONS
HEAT LOSS DETECTION TOOLS
HEAT LOSS INDICATORS
HEAT LOSS PREVENTION PRIORITIES
HEAT LOSS R U & K VALUE CALCULATION
HEAT TAPES & CABLES on Roofs for Ice Dams
HEATING COST FUEL & BTU Cost Table
HEATING COST SAVINGS METHODS
HEATING LOSS DIAGNOSIS-BOILERS
HEATING LOSS DIAGNOSIS-FURNACES

HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
HOUSEWRAP AIR & VAPOR BARRIERS
HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be

HUMIDITY LEVEL TARGET

ICE DAM PREVENTION
INSULATION CHOICES
Insulation Air & Heat Leaks
INSULATION FACT SHEET- DOE
INSULATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
INSULATION LOCATION - WHERE TO PUT IT
  INSULATION LOCATION & QUANTITY for ATTICS
  INSULATION LOCATION for BASEMENT FLOORS
  INSULATION LOCATION for BASEMENT WALLS
  INSULATION LOCATION for BRICK or BLOCK WALL CAVITY
  INSULATION LOCATION for BRICK VENEER WALLS
  INSULATION LOCATION for CAPES, CRAWLSPACES
  INSULATION LOCATION for CATHEDRAL CEILINGS
  INSULATION LOCATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
  INSULATION LOCATION for PASSIVE SOLAR FLOOR SLAB
  INSULATION LOCATION & EXTENT for SLABS
  INSULATION LOCATION for SOUND CONTROL
  INSULATION LOCATION for SUSPENDED PANELS
  INSULATION LOCATION for SWIMMING, INDOOR

INSULATION MOLD
INSULATION R-Values & Properties

INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
  INSULATION R-Values & Properties
  Air Bypass Leaks, Thermal Tracking
  AIR LEAK DETECTION TOOLS
  AIR LEAK MINIMIZATION
  AIR SEAL STRATEGIES
  ATTIC CONDENSATION CAUSE & CURE
  BASEMENT CEILING VAPOR BARRIER
  BASEMENT HEAT LOSS
  Blocked Soffit Intake Vents
  BLOWER DOORS & AIR INFILTRATION
  BLOWN-IN INSULATION
  BRICK or BLOCK WALL CAVITY INSULATION
  BRICK VENEER WALL INSULATION
  CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
  CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
  HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
  FIBERGLASS DUCT, RIGID CONSTRUCTION
  FIRE PROTECTION FOR FOAM BOARD INSULATION
  ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT OPTIONS
  FRAMING DETAILS for BETTER INSULATION
  FRAMING DETAILS for DOUBLE WALL HOUSES
  FRAMING METAL STUD PERFORMANCE
  Inspect Attics for Moisture or Mold
  Inspect Attics for Blocked Soffit Intake Vents
  Inspect Basements for Moisture or Mold
  Inspect Building Exterior - Roof Venting
  Inspect the Ridge Vent System from the Attic
  Inspect the Soffit Vent System from the Attic
  Insects & Foam Insulation
  HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be
  Insulation Air & Heat Leaks
  INSULATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
  INSULATION CHOICES
  INSULATION FACT SHEET- DOE
  INSULATION PLACEMENT in buildings
  INSULATION R-Values & Properties
  LOG HOME WALL INSULATION VALUES
  MOISTURE in BUILDING WALLS, EFFECTS
  MOISTURE in CELLULOSE INSULATION
  Mold in Fiberglass Insulation
  Mold on Books, Book Conservation
  Mold on Fiberboard Insulating Sheathing
  MOLD in Foam Insulation
  MOLD in INSULATION
  Mold Resistance of Foam Insulation
  MOLD PREVENTION AFTER FLOODING
  MOLD RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
  PASCAL CALCULATIONS
  PHENOLIC FOAM INSULATION
  POLYCARBONATE GLAZING
  POLYISOCYANURATE FOAM INSULATION
  POLYISOCYANURATE FOAM BELOW SLABS
  POLYSTYRENE FOAM INSULATION
  RADIANT BARRIERS
  REFLECTIVE INSULATION
  RIGID FOAM USE INDOORS
  ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS
  ROOF VENTING NEEDED?
  ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
  REMOTE ELECTRIC POWER, PHOTOVOLTAIC
  ROCK-BED SOLAR HEAT STORAGE DESIGN
  SLAB INSULATION, PASSIVE SOLAR
  SLATE THERMAL MASS for SOLAR HEAT STORAGE
  SOUND CONTROL in buildings
  STRESS SKIN INSULATED PANELS
  STUCCO OVER FOAM INSULATION
  SUPER HI-R INSULATION
  SUPERINSULATION RETROFIT
  Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation UFFI
  VAPOR BARRIERS & AIR SEALING at BAND JOISTS
  VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  VAPOR BARRIERS & HOUSEWRAP
  VAPOR BARRIERS & HOUSEWRAP
  VAPOR CONDENSATION & BUILDING SHEATHING
  URETHANE FOAM Deterioration, Outgassing
  VERMICULITE INSULATION

INSULATION LOCATION - WHERE TO PUT IT
INSULATION MOLD
INSULATION R-Values & Properties

LEED GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION
LEED Building Designation & IAQ
LIGHTING, INTERIOR GUIDE
LOG HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY
LOG HOME GUIDE

MOBILE HOME INSPECTIONS
MOISTURE CONTROL in buildings
MOLD in FOAM INSULATION, RESISTANCE
MOLD INFORMATION CENTER

Nanomaterials Hazards
NOISE / SOUND DIAGNOSIS & CURE
NOISE CONTROL for HEATING SYSTEMS
NOISE CONTROL for FLOORS
NOISE CONTROL for PLUMBING
NOISE CONTROL for ROOFS

ODORS & SMELLS DIAGNOSIS & CURE

PAINT FALURE, DIAGNOSIS, CURE, PREVENTION
PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN METHOD
PASSIVE SOLAR HEAT PERFORMANCE
PASSIVE SOLAR HOME, LOW COST
PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS
PLASTER & BEAVERBOARD & DRYWALL
PASCAL CALCULATIONS

RADIANT BARRIERS
RADIANT HEAT
RADIANT HEAT Floor Mistakes to Avoid
RADIANT HEAT TEMPERATURES
RADIANT SLAB FLOORING CHOICES
RADIANT SLAB TUBING & FLUID CHOICES
REFLECTIVE INSULATION
RIGID FOAM USE INDOORS
ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS
ROOF VENTING NEEDED?
ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
ROT, FUNGUS, TERMITES
ROT, TIMBER FRAME

SEARS KIT HOUSES

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
SOUND CONTROL in buildings
STAIN & BIODETERIORATION AGENT CATALOG
STAINS on buildings - QUICK GUIDE
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING EXTERIORS
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING INTERIORS
STAINS on INDOOR SURFACES: PHOTO GUIDE

STRESS SKIN INSULATED PANELS
STUCCO OVER FOAM INSULATION
SWEATING (CONDENSATION) on PIPES, TANKS

THERMAL EXPANSION of MATERIALS
THERMAL MASS in buildings
  THERMAL MASS FLOOR SLABS
  THERMAL MASS in UPSTAIRS
  THERMAL MASS WALL DESIGN
  THERMAL MASS in HOMES - STUDY
  THERMAL MASS TRADEOFFS, HEATING vs COOLING

THERMAL TRACKING & HEAT LOSS
  Ceiling Thermal Tracking Marks
  Wall Thermal Tracking Stains
  Floor Carpet Thermal Tracking Stains
  Air Bypass Leaks Marks on Insulation
  Thermal Tracking to Diagnose IAQ
  Stains HVAC Supply Registers
  Pet Stains on Floors
  Pet Stains on Walls
  Human Occupant Stains on Walls
  Stains from Candles, Woodstoves, Fireplaces
  Other Stains on Indoor Walls & Ceilings
  What to Do About Thermal Tracking

VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  ATTIC CONDENSATION CAUSE & CURE
  BASEMENT CEILING VAPOR BARRIER
  CONDENSATION or SWEATING PIPES, TANKS
  CRAWL SPACE VAPOR BARRIER
  DEW POINT CALCULATION for WALLS
  DEW POINT TABLE - CONDENSATION POINT GUIDE
  FELT 15# ROOFING, as HOUSEWRAP/VAPOR BARRIER
  HOUSEWRAP AIR & VAPOR BARRIERS
  HOUSEWRAP INSTALLATION DETAILS
  HOUSEWRAP PRODUCT CHOICES
  HOUSEWRAP at SILLS, SOLES, TOP PLATES
  HUMIDITY LEVEL TARGET
  MOISTURE CONTROL in buildings
  RAIN SPLASH-UP SIDING DAMAGE
  VAPOR BARRIERS & AIR SEALING at BAND JOISTS
  VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  VAPOR BARRIERS & HOUSEWRAP
  VAPOR CONDENSATION & BUILDING SHEATHING
  WATER BARRIERS, EXTERIOR
  WOOD SIDING FLASHING DETAILS

VENTILATION in buildings

WATER ENTRY in buildings
WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS
WIND TURBINES & LIGHTNING
WIND WASHING INSULATION At EAVES
WINDOWS & DOORS

WINTERIZE A BUILDING
Wood Burning Heaters Fireplaces Stoves
Woodstove Safety

ZONE VALVES

More Information

Insulation retrofit  (C) Daniel Friedman

Energy Savings Retrofit Options
InspectAPedia®  -    

  • Insulation & Energy Saving Retrofit Problem Solvers
  • Ultra lightweight concrete insulation retrofit
  • Weather-seal double-hung sash-weighted windows, using simple window sash control
  • Foam foundation forms save on concrete and labor
  • Strip vents to add soffit or roof eaves intake venting
  • Solar Age Magazine Articles on Renewable Energy, Energy Savings, Construction Practices
InspectAPedia offers impartial, unbiased advice without conflicts of interest. We will block advertisements which we discover or readers inform us are associated with bad business practices, false-advertising, or junk science. Our contact info is at InspectAPedia.com/Contact.htm.

This article discusses a selection of energy saving building retrofit steps including using Air Krete ultralightweight concrete building insulation, sealing leaky sash-weight-operated double hung windows, foam foundation forms, and adding soffit intake ventilation for the roof cavity. Sketch at page top and accompanying text are reprinted/adapted/excerpted with permission from Solar Age Magazine - editor Steven Bliss.

Readers needing to find and fix un-wanted air leaks, heat losses, or other energy wasters should see HEAT LOSS DETECTION TOOLS. Readers should see ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT CASE STUDY and also see HEAT LOSS DETECTION TOOLS and INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT for energy saving retrofit detailed guides. Contact us to suggest text changes and additions and, if you wish, to receive online listing and credit for that contribution.

© Copyright 2012 InspectAPedia.com, All Rights Reserved. Information Accuracy & Bias Pledge is at below-left. Use page top links to major topics or use links at the left of each page to navigate within topics and documents at this website. Green links show where you are in a document series or at this website.

Energy Retrofit Tips & Products

"Eight Retrofit Problem Solvers - new products, time tested techniques, and shortcuts make the hard work of insulation or energy retrofitting a little easier" - provided in original PDF form in the links below, and expanded/updated in text just below.

  • Energy Conservation Retrofit - Air Krete wall insulation pump-in - PDF form, use your browser's back button to return to this page
  • Energy Conservation Retrofit - part 2 Air Krete, continued, double hung window leak cures, foam foundation forms
  • Energy Conservation Retrofit - part 3 Soffit intake vent addition using cuts and vent strips

This article is reprinted/adapted/excerpted with permission from Solar Age Magazine - editor Steven Bliss.

Insulating Existing Wall Cavities with Ultra Lightweight Concrete

The perfect building insulation for retrofitting cavity walls would be non-toxic, non-shrinking, fire-resistant, high in R-value, non-corrosive, and moisture and mold-resistant. It would also have the ability to flow into irregular spaces behind the walls, and be dense enough to stop air leaks. And it's got to be cheap. A product whose use dates to 1983, Air Krete, appears to fit this tall order well.

Air Krete (page top photo) is a cement-based product that weighs about the same as extruded polystyrene - 2 pounds per square foot - and has an R-value of 3.9 per inch. Produced on-site from three components plus water, Air Krete installs much the same way as pump-in foam insulating products. When it dries it is lightweight and crumbly.

According to the company, wet Air Krete will flow in and seal the smallest crevices in a wall, but sets up quickly - within 20 seconds. Because Air Krete hydrates like concrete, when drying it gives off less water than some foam products such as the no-longer used urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI). Independent testing showed that this concrete wall insulating product shrinks less than 0.25 percent and it is virtually fireproof. [At the time of the original article - see links above - product testing for water-vapor permeance and water absorption were incomplete.]

Because this ultra lightweight concrete has over 80 percent closed cells, the company described it (back in 1985) as similar to expanded polystyrene foam insulation in its reaction to water - that is, it should be a moderate water vapor retarder and a slow absorber of actual water.

Air-Krete is available through licensed installers. Doing a good job is not difficult, but requires a close watch of the equipment. On a good day, a three person crew can put in 14,000 board feet of this insulating material. Cleanup is easy since the raw materials are water soluble.

Prime applications of lightweight concrete insulation include brick cavity wall construction and masonry block cores. For wood-framed building walls, lightweight concrete will get tough competition from blown-in chopped fiberglass or cellulose insulation. Those products can be blown into building walls for about half the cost of lightweight concrete. In 1985 Air Krete installed for $1.25 to $1.50 per square foot in a 2x4 wood framed wall. (1985 prices - check for current costs).

But if high R-values are needed or if you are concerned about settling, fire resistance [seems less a concern with masonry walls], or moisture absorption, Air Krete or similar ultra lightweight concrete wall insulating products are worth looking into. Also these products maybe code-approved for fire stops and fire-walls.

Retrofits for Stopping Drafts at Double-Hung Windows & Window Sashes

Window leak retrofit clip (C) Daniel FriedmanWeathersealing an old double-hung window is no one's idea of a good time. Retrofit contractors have found a cheap and simple device that makes that task easier: the Quiki window control. Other window sash controls include an aluminum track that tacks into the existing window sash opening after you remove the parting strips that will be found between the existing sashes. The Quiki window control, or spring-loaded sides of the window track insert will hold the sashes firmly in any position.

An alternative to the window track, if you're just using the window clip, is the installation of plastic V-strips along the bottom sash at the meeting rail and against the parting strips found between the house-interior faces of the stops and the lower sash. Some retrofitters caulk the top sash in place, but if you use the track insert we have cited, that won't be needed.

These products mean you can remove the window sash cords, pulleys, and sash weights from the wall cavities found on either side of older double-hung window sashes, adding foam or fiberglass insulation in those spaces to eliminate what amounts to an un-insulated building wall area on either side of every window. Adding insulation using foam squirted into the cavity will be most effective in stopping drafts. To avoid springing the sides of some less-rigid window frames it may be necessary to wedge a stick between the window opening sides while the foam cures.

Foam Foundation Forms

Concrete foundation forms (C) Daniel FriedmanThere are presently a wide variety of foam foundation form manufacturers whose products combine fast concrete forms that also insulate the foundation perimeter. Back in 1985 a leader in this approach was Branch River Plastics who used expanded polystyrene to produce Fast Forms.

Polystyrene insulating concrete foundation form products lend themselves to sunspace construction or other small slab-on-grade jobs where you want to get the backhoe and mixer in and out in a hurry. Fast Forms and similar foam foundation insulating forms come in 4 x 8 foot sections that lock together with dovetail keys and special corners.

The foam foundation forms are engineered to work without rebar in normal soils with typical loads. Concentrated point loads go on special pier forms that fit to the standard sections. After pouring the forms are left in place to insulate the perimeter of the concrete slab.

Because the foam foundation forms are left in the ground, the trenches need to be only 18 to 24 inches wide and can be backfilled as soon as the forms are set. Footing, slab, and wall are poured monolithically, so only one concrete delivery is required. The foam foundation forms help the concrete cure well by retarding the heat and water of concrete hydration. The insulation also helps in cold-weather concrete slab pours.

At their introduction in the 1980's these foam foundation forms cost about $10.40 per lineal foot, but they save on concrete and labor.

Adding Soffit Intake Vents

Soffit intake vent strips (C) Daniel FriedmanIn several InspectAPedia articles we have emphasized the importance of effective under-roof ventilation to prevent moisture and mold in roof cavities as well as to avoid inadvertently sucking heat out of the building (by providing traditional exit vents or gable end vents without intake venting.

ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS describes how to correct inadequate attic ventilation, stop attic condensation, and stop ice dam formation, thus avoiding building leaks, mold, and structural damage.

Roof Venting: Soffit Intake Vent-Continuous emphasizes that continuous soffit intake venting is essential for roof ventilation to work properly. In the sketch at left you'll see little round holes drilled through the soffit, covered by a soffit vent strip that can be purchased inexpensively at any building supply house.

DON'T RELY ON LITTLE HOLES in the soffit. Having inspected thousands of homes and seen many attic moisture and ice dam problems on homes where a variety of roof venting systems were installed, we are convinced that what is needed is a continuous opening along the full length of the soffit. Typically the opening is cut about 2" wide - to match the soffit vent strip minus its support flanges. Using a circular saw overhead risks sawdust in the eye, so wear protective goggles. But don't take any shortcuts - it won't work.

ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS describes roof framing options that permit optimum roof ventilation in new construction.

ROOF VENTING NEEDED? explains why under-roof ventilation is needed, and includes warnings about un-vented and "hot roof" designs.

The text below paraphrases, quotes-from, updates, and comments an original article, (see links just above) from Solar Age Magazine and written by Steven Bliss - with permission.

Here we include solar energy, solar heating, solar hot water, and related building energy efficiency improvement articles reprinted/adapted/excerpted with permission from Solar Age Magazine - editor Steven Bliss.

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Use links just below or at the left of each page to navigate this document or to view other topics at this website. Green links show where you are in our document or website.

AIR CONDITIONING & HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings

INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE

INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
INTERIORS of buildings

ACOUSTICAL SEALANT CHOICES
AIR BYPASS LEAKS
AIR CHANGE RATE ACH HEAT SAVINGS
AIR CLEANER PURIFIER TYPES

AIR FILTER EFFECTIVENESS
AIR FILTERS for HVAC SYSTEMS
AIR FILTERS, OPTIMUM INDOOR
AIR FILTERS, SOURCES FOR
AIR FILTERING STRATEGIES
AIR FILTERING CONTINUOUS FAN OPERATION
AIR HANDLER / BLOWER UNITS

AIR LEAK DETECTION TOOLS
AIR LEAK MINIMIZATION
AIR LEAK SEALING PROCEDURE
AIR POLLUTANTS, COMMON INDOOR
AIR SEALING STRATEGIES

ANIMAL ALLERGENS
APPLIANCE EFFICIENCY RATINGS
ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION
ASBESTOS-FREE INSULATION MATERIALS
ASBESTOS IDENTIFICATION IN buildings
ATTIC LEAKS, CONDENSATION & ATTIC MOLD
ATTIC VENTILATION

BASEMENT CEILING VAPOR BARRIER
BASEMENT HEAT LOSS
BASEMENT LEAKS, INSPECT FOR
BASEMENT WATERPROOFING

BATH & KITCHEN DESIGN GUIDE
BATHROOM VENTILATION
BIOGAS PRODUCTION & USE
BLOWER DOORS & AIR INFILTRATION
BLOWER FAN CONTINUOUS OPERATION
BLOWER FAN OPERATION & TESTING
BLOWN-IN INSULATION

BRICK LINED WALLS
BRICK VENEER WALL INSULATION
BRICK VENEER WALL Loose, Bulged
BRICK WALL DRAINAGE WEEP HOLES
BUCKLED FOUNDATIONS due to INSULATION?
BUILDING NOISE DIAGNOSIS & CURE

CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
CEILING FINISHES INTERIOR
CEILINGS, DROP or SUSPENDED PANEL
CEILINGS, PLASTER TYPES

CHIMNEY INSPECTION DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
COMBUSTION AIR for TIGHT buildings
CONDENSING BOILERS/FURNACES DAMAGE

CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
CEILING FINISHES INTERIOR
CEILINGS, DROP or SUSPENDED PANEL
CEILINGS, PLASTER TYPES

CHIMNEY INSPECTION DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
COMBUSTION AIR for TIGHT BUILDINGS
CONDENSING BOILERS/FURNACES DAMAGE
CONDENSATION or SWEATING PIPES, TANKS
COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
CRAWL SPACES

DEFINITION of Heating & Cooling Terms
DEHUMIDIFICATION PROBLEMS
DEW POINT CALCULATION for WALLS
DEW POINT TABLE - CONDENSATION POINT GUIDE
DUCT SYSTEM & DUCT DEFECTS

ELECTRIC HEAT
ELECTRIC POWER, PHOTOVOLTAIC, REMOTE SITE
ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings
ENERGY STAR PROGRAM
EVAPORATIVE COOLING SYSTEMS

ENERGY AUDIT - How to Use a Free One
ENERGY SAVINGS MAXIMIZE RETURNS ON
ENERGY SAVINGS PRIORITIES
ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT CASE STUDY
ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT LEAK SEALING GUIDE
ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT OPTIONS
ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS - INSPECT, TEST, REMEDY

FIBERGLASS INSULATION
FIBERGLASS HAZARDS
FIBERGLASS INSULATION MOLD

FLASHING MEMBRANES PEEL & STICK
FLAT ROOF MOISTURE & CONDENSATION

FLOOD DAMAGE ASSESSMENT, SAFETY & CLEANUP
FLOODS IN buildings-mold

FLOOR, CONCRETE SLAB CHOICES
FLOOR, CONCRETE SLAB POURED FINISH
FLOOR DAMAGE DIAGNOSIS
FLOOR RADIANT HEAT Mistakes to Avoid
FLOOR TYPES & DEFECTS

FOUNDATION WATERPROOFING
FRENCH DRAINS
FRAMING DETAILS for BETTER INSULATION
FRAMING DETAILS for DOUBLE WALL HOUSES
FRAMING METAL STUD PERFORMANCE
FREEZE-PROOF A BUILDING
FROST HEAVES, FOUNDATION, SLAB

GREEN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION CODES GUIDES
GREENHOUSE DESIGN for SOLAR HEATING

HEAT LOSS in buildings
HEAT LOSS RATE CALCULATIONS
HEAT LOSS DETECTION TOOLS
HEAT LOSS INDICATORS
HEAT LOSS PREVENTION PRIORITIES
HEAT LOSS R U & K VALUE CALCULATION
HEAT TAPES & CABLES on Roofs for Ice Dams
HEATING COST FUEL & BTU Cost Table
HEATING COST SAVINGS METHODS
HEATING LOSS DIAGNOSIS-BOILERS
HEATING LOSS DIAGNOSIS-FURNACES

HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
HOUSEWRAP AIR & VAPOR BARRIERS
HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be

HUMIDITY LEVEL TARGET

ICE DAM PREVENTION
INSULATION CHOICES
Insulation Air & Heat Leaks
INSULATION FACT SHEET- DOE
INSULATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
INSULATION LOCATION - WHERE TO PUT IT
  INSULATION LOCATION & QUANTITY for ATTICS
  INSULATION LOCATION for BASEMENT FLOORS
  INSULATION LOCATION for BASEMENT WALLS
  INSULATION LOCATION for BRICK or BLOCK WALL CAVITY
  INSULATION LOCATION for BRICK VENEER WALLS
  INSULATION LOCATION for CAPES, CRAWLSPACES
  INSULATION LOCATION for CATHEDRAL CEILINGS
  INSULATION LOCATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
  INSULATION LOCATION for PASSIVE SOLAR FLOOR SLAB
  INSULATION LOCATION & EXTENT for SLABS
  INSULATION LOCATION for SOUND CONTROL
  INSULATION LOCATION for SUSPENDED PANELS
  INSULATION LOCATION for SWIMMING, INDOOR

INSULATION MOLD
INSULATION R-Values & Properties

INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
  INSULATION R-Values & Properties
  Air Bypass Leaks, Thermal Tracking
  AIR LEAK DETECTION TOOLS
  AIR LEAK MINIMIZATION
  AIR SEAL STRATEGIES
  ATTIC CONDENSATION CAUSE & CURE
  BASEMENT CEILING VAPOR BARRIER
  BASEMENT HEAT LOSS
  Blocked Soffit Intake Vents
  BLOWER DOORS & AIR INFILTRATION
  BLOWN-IN INSULATION
  BRICK or BLOCK WALL CAVITY INSULATION
  BRICK VENEER WALL INSULATION
  CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
  CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
  HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
  ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT OPTIONS
  FIBERGLASS DUCT, RIGID CONSTRUCTION
  FIRE PROTECTION FOR FOAM BOARD INSULATION
  FOUNDATION INSULATION OPTIONS
  FRAMING DETAILS for BETTER INSULATION
  FRAMING DETAILS for DOUBLE WALL HOUSES
  FRAMING METAL STUD PERFORMANCE
  Inspect Attics for Moisture or Mold
  Inspect Attics for Blocked Soffit Intake Vents
  Inspect Basements for Moisture or Mold
  Inspect Building Exterior - Roof Venting
  Inspect the Ridge Vent System from the Attic
  Inspect the Soffit Vent System from the Attic
  Insects & Foam Insulation
  HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be
  Insulation Air & Heat Leaks
  INSULATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
  INSULATION CHOICES
  INSULATION FACT SHEET- DOE
  INSULATION PLACEMENT in buildings
  INSULATION R-Values & Properties
  LOG HOME WALL INSULATION VALUES
  MOISTURE in BUILDING WALLS, EFFECTS
  MOISTURE in CELLULOSE INSULATION
  Mold in Fiberglass Insulation
  Mold on Books, Book Conservation
  Mold on Fiberboard Insulating Sheathing
  MOLD in Foam Insulation
  MOLD in INSULATION
  Mold Resistance of Foam Insulation
  MOLD PREVENTION AFTER FLOODING
  MOLD RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
  PASCAL CALCULATIONS
  PHENOLIC FOAM INSULATION
  POLYCARBONATE GLAZING
  POLYISOCYANURATE FOAM INSULATION
  POLYISOCYANURATE FOAM BELOW SLABS
  POLYSTYRENE FOAM INSULATION
  RADIANT BARRIERS
  REFLECTIVE INSULATION
  RIGID FOAM USE INDOORS
  ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS
  ROOF VENTING NEEDED?
  ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
  REMOTE ELECTRIC POWER, PHOTOVOLTAIC
  ROCK-BED SOLAR HEAT STORAGE DESIGN
  SLAB INSULATION, PASSIVE SOLAR
  SLATE THERMAL MASS for SOLAR HEAT STORAGE
  SOUND CONTROL in buildings
  STRESS SKIN INSULATED PANELS
  STUCCO OVER FOAM INSULATION
  SUPER HI-R INSULATION
  SUPERINSULATION RETROFIT
  Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation UFFI
  VAPOR BARRIERS & AIR SEALING at BAND JOISTS
  VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  VAPOR BARRIERS & HOUSEWRAP
  VAPOR BARRIERS & HOUSEWRAP
  VAPOR CONDENSATION & BUILDING SHEATHING
  URETHANE FOAM Deterioration, Outgassing
  VERMICULITE INSULATION

INSULATION LOCATION - WHERE TO PUT IT
INSULATION MOLD
INSULATION R-Values & Properties

LEED GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION
LEED Building Designation & IAQ
LIGHTING, INTERIOR GUIDE
LOG HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY
LOG HOME GUIDE

MOBILE HOME INSPECTIONS
MOISTURE CONTROL in buildings
MOLD in FOAM INSULATION, RESISTANCE
MOLD INFORMATION CENTER

Nanomaterials Hazards
NOISE / SOUND DIAGNOSIS & CURE
NOISE CONTROL for HEATING SYSTEMS
NOISE CONTROL for FLOORS
NOISE CONTROL for PLUMBING
NOISE CONTROL for ROOFS

ODORS & SMELLS DIAGNOSIS & CURE

PAINT FALURE, DIAGNOSIS, CURE, PREVENTION
PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN METHOD
PASSIVE SOLAR HEAT PERFORMANCE
PASSIVE SOLAR HOME, LOW COST
PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS
PLASTER & BEAVERBOARD & DRYWALL
PASCAL CALCULATIONS

RADIANT BARRIERS
RADIANT HEAT
RADIANT HEAT Floor Mistakes to Avoid
RADIANT HEAT TEMPERATURES
RADIANT SLAB FLOORING CHOICES
RADIANT SLAB TUBING & FLUID CHOICES
REFLECTIVE INSULATION
RIGID FOAM USE INDOORS
ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS
ROOF VENTING NEEDED?
ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
ROT, FUNGUS, TERMITES
ROT, TIMBER FRAME

ROOF ARCHITECTURAL STYLES - PHOTO GUIDE
ROOF CLEANING RECOMMENDATIONS
ROOF DORMER TYPES - PHOTO GUIDE
ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
ROT, FUNGUS, TERMITES
  TERMITE SHIELDS vs TERMITICIDE
ROT, TIMBER FRAME

SEARS KIT HOUSES

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
SOUND CONTROL in buildings
STAIN & BIODETERIORATION AGENT CATALOG
STAINS on buildings - QUICK GUIDE
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING EXTERIORS
STAIN DIAGNOSIS on BUILDING INTERIORS
STAINS on INDOOR SURFACES: PHOTO GUIDE

STRESS SKIN INSULATED PANELS
STUCCO OVER FOAM INSULATION
SWEATING (CONDENSATION) on PIPES, TANKS

THERMAL EXPANSION of MATERIALS
THERMAL MASS in buildings
  THERMAL MASS FLOOR SLABS
  THERMAL MASS in UPSTAIRS
  THERMAL MASS WALL DESIGN
  THERMAL MASS in HOMES - STUDY
  THERMAL MASS TRADEOFFS, HEATING vs COOLING

THERMAL TRACKING & HEAT LOSS
  Ceiling Thermal Tracking Marks
  Wall Thermal Tracking Stains
  Floor Carpet Thermal Tracking Stains
  Air Bypass Leaks Marks on Insulation
  Thermal Tracking to Diagnose IAQ
  Stains HVAC Supply Registers
  Pet Stains on Floors
  Pet Stains on Walls
  Human Occupant Stains on Walls
  Stains from Candles, Woodstoves, Fireplaces
  Other Stains on Indoor Walls & Ceilings
  What to Do About Thermal Tracking

VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  ATTIC CONDENSATION CAUSE & CURE
  BASEMENT CEILING VAPOR BARRIER
  CONDENSATION or SWEATING PIPES, TANKS
  CRAWL SPACE VAPOR BARRIER
  DEW POINT CALCULATION for WALLS
  DEW POINT TABLE - CONDENSATION POINT GUIDE
  FELT 15# ROOFING, as HOUSEWRAP/VAPOR BARRIER
  HOUSEWRAP AIR & VAPOR BARRIERS
  HOUSEWRAP INSTALLATION DETAILS
  HOUSEWRAP PRODUCT CHOICES
  HOUSEWRAP at SILLS, SOLES, TOP PLATES
  HUMIDITY LEVEL TARGET
  MOISTURE CONTROL in buildings
  RAIN SPLASH-UP SIDING DAMAGE
  VAPOR BARRIERS & AIR SEALING at BAND JOISTS
  VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  VAPOR BARRIERS & HOUSEWRAP
  VAPOR CONDENSATION & BUILDING SHEATHING
  WATER BARRIERS, EXTERIOR
  WOOD SIDING FLASHING DETAILS

VENTILATION in buildings

WATER ENTRY in buildings
WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS
WIND TURBINES & LIGHTNING
WIND WASHING INSULATION At EAVES
WINDOWS & DOORS

WINTERIZE A BUILDING
WOOD Burning Heaters Fireplaces Stoves

  • Solar Age Magazine was the official publication of the American Solar Energy Society. The contemporary solar energy magazine associated with the Society is Solar Today. "Established in 1954, the nonprofit American Solar Energy Society (ASES) is the nation's leading association of solar professionals & advocates. Our mission is to inspire an era of energy innovation and speed the transition to a sustainable energy economy. We advance education, research and policy. Leading for more than 50 years. ASES leads national efforts to increase the use of solar energy, energy efficiency and other sustainable technologies in the U.S. We publish the award-winning SOLAR TODAY magazine, organize and present the ASES National Solar Conference and lead the ASES National Solar Tour – the largest grassroots solar event in the world."
  • Steven Bliss served as editorial director and co-publisher of The Journal of Light Construction for 16 years and previously as building technology editor for Progressive Builder and Solar Age magazines. He worked in the building trades as a carpenter and design/build contractor for more than ten years and holds a masters degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Excerpts from his recent book, Best Practices Guide to Residential Construction, Wiley (November 18, 2005) ISBN-10: 0471648361, ISBN-13: 978-0471648369, appear throughout this website, with permission and courtesy of Wiley & Sons. Best Practices Guide is available from the publisher, J. Wiley & Sons, and also at Amazon.com.
    Excerpts with updates and annotations expanding the original Best Practices Guide text can be found in the online review and book summary at BEST CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES GUIDE and also at DECK & PORCH CONSTRUCTION, at INDOOR AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT GUIDE, and in other articles found at InspectAPedia.com such as HOUSEWRAP AIR & VAPOR BARRIERS, SOUND CONTROL in buildings, and other topics.
  • Quiki Window Control, Holmes & Hemphill, 6186 Olson Hwy, Golden Valley MN 55422 800-328-2281

Books & Articles on Building & Environmental Inspection, Testing, Diagnosis, & Repair

  • Our recommended books about building & mechanical systems design, inspection, problem diagnosis, and repair, and about indoor environment and IAQ testing, diagnosis, and cleanup are at the InspectAPedia Bookstore. Also see our Book Reviews - InspectAPedia.
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