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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

ELECTRICAL INSPECTION, DIAGNOSIS, REPAIR

ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings
  AFUE DEFINITION, RATINGS
  AIR BYPASS LEAKS
  AIR CHANGE RATE ACH HEAT SAVINGS
  AIR CONDITIONING HEAT PUMP SAVINGS
  AIR LEAK SEALING PROCEDURE
  APPLIANCE EFFICIENCY RATINGS
  ATTIC LEAKS, CONDENSATION & ATTIC MOLD
  COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
  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
  ENERGY STAR PROGRAM
  ENERGY USE MONITORING
  GLASS vs HEAT MIRROR SOLAR GAIN/Loss
  HEAT LOSS in buildings
  HEATING COST SAVINGS METHODS
  HIGH MASS TRADEOFFS, HEATING vs COOLING
  HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be
  INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
  INSULATION LOCATION - WHERE TO PUT IT
  RADIANT BARRIERS
  REFLECTIVE INSULATION
  ROOF COLOR RECOMMENDATIONS
  Skylight Energy Efficiency
  SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
  THERMAL MASS in buildings
  TIMERS for ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS
  VENTILATION, BALANCED HEAT COST SAVINGS
  WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS
  WINDOW EFFICIENCY Features & Ratings
  WOOD, COAL STOVES & FIREPLACES

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
INDOOR AIR QUALITY & HOUSE TIGHTNESS
INDOOR AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

INSULATION CHOICES
Insulation Air & Heat Leaks
INSULATION FACT SHEET- DOE
INSULATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
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 in buildings
  ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT CASE STUDY
  ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT LEAK SEALING GUIDE
  ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT OPTIONS
  ENERGY STAR PROGRAM
  ENERGY USE MONITORING
  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
  HEATING COST SAVINGS METHODS
  HIGH MASS TRADEOFFS, HEATING vs COOLING
  HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be
  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
  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
  PHENOLIC FOAM INSULATION
  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
  PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN METHOD
  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
  URETHANE FOAM Deterioration, Outgassing
  VAPOR BARRIERS & AIR SEALING at BAND JOISTS
  VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  VAPOR BARRIERS & HOUSEWRAP
  VAPOR CONDENSATION & BUILDING SHEATHING
  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
SHEATHING, FOIL FACED - VENTS

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
  BLOCKBED RADIANT FLOORS - SOLAR DESIGN
  FLOOR, CONCRETE SLAB CHOICES
  FLOOR, CONCRETE SLAB POURED FINISH
  GLASS vs HEAT MIRROR SOLAR GAIN/Loss
  GREENHOUSE DESIGN for SOLAR HEATING
  GREENHOUSE / SUNSPACE GLARE
  PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN KEY ELEMENTS
  PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN METHOD
  PASSIVE SOLAR ENERGY MONITORING
  PASSIVE SOLAR FLOOR TILES, PHASE CHANGE
  PASSIVE SOLAR HEAT PERFORMANCE
  PASSIVE SOLAR HOME, LOW COST
  PASSIVE SOLAR PERFORMANCE PROBE
  PASSIVE SOLAR Roof & Window Overhangs
  PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS
  POLYCARBONATE GLAZING
  REMOTE ELECTRIC POWER, PHOTOVOLTAIC
  ROCK-BED SOLAR HEAT STORAGE DESIGN
  SLAB INSULATION, PASSIVE SOLAR
  SLATE THERMAL MASS for SOLAR HEAT STORAGE
  SOLAR COLLECTOR AIR or GAS COLLECTION
  SOLAR COLLECTOR EFFICIENCY COMPARISONS
  SOLAR COLLECTOR FILMS
  SOLAR COLLECTOR OUTGASSING
  SOLAR COLLECTOR WOOD HOUSINGS
  SOLAR GAIN CALCULATION
  SOLAR HEATING SYSTEM DESIGNS
  SOLAR HOT WATER HEATERS
  SOLAR HOUSE EVALUATION
  SOLAR MODULE MANUFACTURERS
  SOLAR SHADES & SUNSCREENS
  SOLAR SHADES, LOW-E EFFECTIVENESS
  SOLAR WATER DISINFECTION
  SOLAR HOT WATER HEATERS
  SUNSPACE DESIGN for SOLAR HEATING
  SUNSPACE GLAZING for SUNTANNING
  STORM WINDOW INTERIOR
  STORM WINDOW PLASTIC CHOICES
  STORM WINDOW WEEP HOLES
  SUNGAIN, FILMS, LOW-E GLASS
  SUNSPACE GLAZING for SUNTANNING
  SWIMMING POOL SOLAR HEAT, INDOOR
  SWIMMING POOL SOLAR HEAT, OUTDOOR DIAGNOSIS
  THERMAL MASS in buildings

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
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  THERMAL MASS WALL DESIGN
  THERMAL MASS in HOMES - STUDY
  THERMAL MASS TRADEOFFS, HEATING vs COOLING

THERMAL TRACKING & HEAT LOSS

VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  ATTIC CONDENSATION CAUSE & CURE
  BASEMENT CEILING VAPOR BARRIER
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  DEW POINT TABLE - CONDENSATION POINT GUIDE
  FELT 15# ROOFING, as HOUSEWRAP/VAPOR BARRIER
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  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

Schematic of a solar water heater hookup (C) InspectAPedia.com - Lennox Industries

Use of Phenolic Foam Insulation for Solar Energy Applications
InspectAPedia®  -    

  • How suitable are phenolic foam insulation products for solar energy applications?
  • Solar Age Magazine Articles on Renewable Energy, Energy Savings, Construction Practices
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This article discusses the question: is phenolic foam insulation suitable for solar energy installations? Sketch at page top and accompanying text are reprinted/adapted/excerpted with permission from Solar Age Magazine - editor Steven Bliss.

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.

Indoor use of phenolic foam insulating materials in solar energy systems

  • Q&A on use of Phenolic Foam Insulation - original text. Use your browser's back button to return to this page

The question-and-answer article about the indoor use of phenolic insulating foam found just below paraphrases, quotes-from, updates, and comments an original article, (see links just above) from Solar Age Magazine and written by Steven Bliss.

Are Phenolic Foam Insulation Board Products Suitable for Solar Energy Products or Designs?

We wish to obtain information about manufacturing sources for phenolic insulation materials. As this material is rated as high as 500 degF. in temperature range, it may well suit a specific solar application that we have. -- J.I. Osias, Solar Builders, Cheshire CT.

Answer:

Phenolic foams, like polyurethanes and isocyanurates, are closed-cell insulations with entrapped Freon gas [or by current standards, non-freon gases]. A chief attraction of phenolics is that they can withstand high temperatures and will not support flames (though they can be consumed) in a fire.

Typically, phenolic foams can tolerate continuous temperatures in the 300 degF to 350 degF range, with intermittent use up to 400 degF. Above that temperature, oxidation is likely to occur and render the phenolic foam insulating boards brittle. Outgassing of Freon or its replacement gases at high temperatures should be less of a problem than with other refrigerant-gas blown foams. In general, the phenolics are very stable chemically and dimensionally.

The main problems with phenolic foams reported in the 1980's were their relatively low compressive and flexural strength and their friability or tendency to crumble. Continual improvements in the formulations of phenolic foam board insulation products may overcome these drawbacks.

Facings on the foam insulating board can also help, but at the time of the original Solar Age article (August 1984) no one had successfully foamed phenolics between foil facings. At that time Koppers Co. was about to release a foil-faced phenolic foam insulation called Exeltherm Xtra residential insulation. At R-8.2 per inch, that foam would have had the highest R-value of any residential insulation. See INSULATION R-Values & Properties for current R-values.

More information about companies producing phenolic foam insulation products is provided at Technical References & Reviewers below.

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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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

ELECTRICAL INSPECTION, DIAGNOSIS, REPAIR

ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings
  AFUE DEFINITION, RATINGS
  AIR BYPASS LEAKS
  AIR CHANGE RATE ACH HEAT SAVINGS
  AIR CONDITIONING HEAT PUMP SAVINGS
  AIR LEAK SEALING PROCEDURE
  APPLIANCE EFFICIENCY RATINGS
  ATTIC LEAKS, CONDENSATION & ATTIC MOLD
  COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
  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
  ENERGY STAR PROGRAM
  ENERGY USE MONITORING
  GLASS vs HEAT MIRROR SOLAR GAIN/Loss
  HEAT LOSS in buildings
  HEATING COST SAVINGS METHODS
  HIGH MASS TRADEOFFS, HEATING vs COOLING
  HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be
  INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
  INSULATION LOCATION - WHERE TO PUT IT
  RADIANT BARRIERS
  REFLECTIVE INSULATION
  ROOF COLOR RECOMMENDATIONS
  Skylight Energy Efficiency
  SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
  THERMAL MASS in buildings
  TIMERS for ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS
  VENTILATION, BALANCED HEAT COST SAVINGS
  WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS
  WINDOW EFFICIENCY Features & Ratings
  WOOD, COAL STOVES & FIREPLACES

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
INDOOR AIR QUALITY & HOUSE TIGHTNESS
INDOOR AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

INSULATION CHOICES
Insulation Air & Heat Leaks
INSULATION FACT SHEET- DOE
INSULATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
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 in buildings
  ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT CASE STUDY
  ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT LEAK SEALING GUIDE
  ENERGY SAVINGS RETROFIT OPTIONS
  ENERGY STAR PROGRAM
  ENERGY USE MONITORING
  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
  HEATING COST SAVINGS METHODS
  HIGH MASS TRADEOFFS, HEATING vs COOLING
  HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be
  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
  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
  PHENOLIC FOAM INSULATION
  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
  PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN METHOD
  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
  URETHANE FOAM Deterioration, Outgassing
  VAPOR BARRIERS & AIR SEALING at BAND JOISTS
  VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  VAPOR BARRIERS & HOUSEWRAP
  VAPOR CONDENSATION & BUILDING SHEATHING
  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
SHEATHING, FOIL FACED - VENTS

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
  BLOCKBED RADIANT FLOORS - SOLAR DESIGN
  FLOOR, CONCRETE SLAB CHOICES
  FLOOR, CONCRETE SLAB POURED FINISH
  GLASS vs HEAT MIRROR SOLAR GAIN/Loss
  GREENHOUSE DESIGN for SOLAR HEATING
  GREENHOUSE / SUNSPACE GLARE
  PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN KEY ELEMENTS
  PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN METHOD
  PASSIVE SOLAR ENERGY MONITORING
  PASSIVE SOLAR FLOOR TILES, PHASE CHANGE
  PASSIVE SOLAR HEAT PERFORMANCE
  PASSIVE SOLAR HOME, LOW COST
  PASSIVE SOLAR PERFORMANCE PROBE
  PASSIVE SOLAR Roof & Window Overhangs
  PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS
  POLYCARBONATE GLAZING
  REMOTE ELECTRIC POWER, PHOTOVOLTAIC
  ROCK-BED SOLAR HEAT STORAGE DESIGN
  SLAB INSULATION, PASSIVE SOLAR
  SLATE THERMAL MASS for SOLAR HEAT STORAGE
  SOLAR COLLECTOR AIR or GAS COLLECTION
  SOLAR COLLECTOR EFFICIENCY COMPARISONS
  SOLAR COLLECTOR FILMS
  SOLAR COLLECTOR OUTGASSING
  SOLAR COLLECTOR WOOD HOUSINGS
  SOLAR GAIN CALCULATION
  SOLAR HEATING SYSTEM DESIGNS
  SOLAR HOT WATER HEATERS
  SOLAR HOUSE EVALUATION
  SOLAR MODULE MANUFACTURERS
  SOLAR SHADES & SUNSCREENS
  SOLAR SHADES, LOW-E EFFECTIVENESS
  SOLAR WATER DISINFECTION
  SOLAR HOT WATER HEATERS
  SUNSPACE DESIGN for SOLAR HEATING
  SUNSPACE GLAZING for SUNTANNING
  STORM WINDOW INTERIOR
  STORM WINDOW PLASTIC CHOICES
  STORM WINDOW WEEP HOLES
  SUNGAIN, FILMS, LOW-E GLASS
  SUNSPACE GLAZING for SUNTANNING
  SWIMMING POOL SOLAR HEAT, INDOOR
  SWIMMING POOL SOLAR HEAT, OUTDOOR DIAGNOSIS
  THERMAL MASS in buildings

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

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.
  • BP North America, 620 Fifth Ave., New York NY 10020
  • Koppers Company Inc., Dept 64C-2D, 1901 Koppers Building, Pittsburgh PA 15219
  • Lewcott Chemicals & Plastics Corp., Box 319, Millbury MA 01527
  • Tuff-R™ and Super Tuff-R™, Dow Building Solutions, have an R-value of R 6.5 per inch. Note that the R-value of this insulating board is increased to R-9.3 per inch if construction includes a 3/4" air space. These are closed-cell polyisocyanurate insulating foam core board products. The foam core is sandwiched between a choice of exterior faces including aluminum foil, tri-plex aluminum foil, or polyester kraft paper combined with reinforced aluminum foil. One board side is blue, the other is radiant aluminum foil. These products must be covered with a minimum of 1/2" drywall or equivalent thermal barrier in building applications.

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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