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Free Encyclopedia of Building & Environmental Inspection, Testing, Diagnosis, Repair

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  • INTERIORS
  • PLUMBING
  • ROOFING
  • SEPTIC SYSTEMS
  • STRUCTURE
  • WATER SUPPLY
  • ENERGY SAVINGS
  • ENVIRONMENT
  • INDOOR AIR IAQ
  • INSULATION
  • MOLD INSPECT TEST REMOVE
  • NOISE
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ACOUSTICAL SEALANT CHOICES
AIR BYPASS LEAKS
AIR LEAK DETECTION TOOLS
AIR LEAK MINIMIZATION
AIR LEAK SEALING PROCEDURE
AIR TEST FOR MOLD: ACCURACY
AIR TEST SAMPLING CASSETTE STUDY
ALLERGEN TESTS for buildings
ALLERGENS in BUILDINGS, RECOGNIZING
ALLERGY & MOLD IAQ PRODUCTS
ALLERGY TESTS for PEOPLE
ALLERGY TEST ACCURACY
ANIMAL ALLERGENS / PET DANDER
APPLIANCE EFFICIENCY RATINGS
ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION
ASBESTOS-FREE INSULATION MATERIALS
ASBESTOS IDENTIFICATION IN buildings
ATTIC LEAKS, CONDENSATION & MOLD
ATTIC VENTILATION

BACKDRAFTING HEATING EQUIPMENT
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 AIR LEAKS
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
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 & MOLD
  COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
  DRYER VENTING
  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, SOLAR
  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
INSULATION CHOICES
Insulation Air & Heat Leaks
INSULATION FACT SHEET- DOE
INSULATION for GREENHOUSE or SOLARIUM
INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
  ATTIC CONDENSATION CAUSE & CURE
  Air Bypass Leaks, Thermal Tracking
  Blocked Soffit Intake Vents
  BRICK or BLOCK WALL CAVITY INSULATION
  BRICK VENEER WALL AIR LEAKS
  CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
  CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
  ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings
  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
  HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
  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 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
  MORGELLONS SYNDROME
  PASCAL CALCULATIONS
  PHENOLIC FOAM INSULATION
  POLYISOCYANURATE FOAM INSULATION
  POLYISOCYANURATE FOAM BELOW SLABS
  POLYSTYRENE FOAM INSULATION
  RADIANT BARRIERS
  REFLECTIVE INSULATION
  RIGID FOAM USE INDOORS
  STRESS SKIN INSULATED PANELS
  STUCCO OVER FOAM INSULATION
  SUPER HI-R INSULATION
  SUPERINSULATION RETROFIT
  Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation UFFI
  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
LIGHT, GUIDE to FORENSIC USE
LIGHTING, EXTERIOR GUIDE
LIGHTING, INTERIOR GUIDE
LOG HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY
LOG HOME GUIDE

MOBILE HOME INSPECTIONS
MOISTURE CONTROL in BUILDINGS
  ATTIC CONDENSATION CAUSE & CURE
  Attic Moisture or Mold Sources
  BASEMENT CEILING VAPOR BARRIER
  BASEMENT De-Watering Systems
  BASEMENT HEAT LOSS
  BASEMENT LEAKS, INSPECT FOR
  BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
  BASEMENT WATER ENTRY PREVENTION
  CATCH BASINS
  Chimney Leaks
  CONDENSATION or SWEATING PIPES, TANKS
  CONDENSATION on WINDOWS & SKYLIGHTS
  CORROSION in ELECTRICAL PANELS
  CRAWL SPACE DRYOUT PROCEDURES
  DEW POINT CALCULATION for WALLS
  DEW POINT TABLE - CONDENSATION POINT GUIDE
  DRYER VENTING
  DRYWELLS, FRENCH DRAINS for FLAT SITES
  COMMERCIAL SEPTIC DESIGN
  DRYWELL DESIGN & USES
  EFFLORESCENCE, Salts & White / Brown Deposits
  ELECTRIC PANEL MOISTURE
  EXTERIOR WATER SOURCE ELIMINATION
  FLOOD Damage Assessment & Repairs
  FLOOD DAMAGED FOUNDATIONS
  FLOOD VENTS & FLOOD PORTS
  FLOODS IN buildings-priorities
  FOUNDATION DRAINS, INTERIOR
  FOUNDATION WATERPROOFING
  GEOTEXTILES & DRAINAGE MATS
  GRADING, DRAINAGE & SITE WORK
  GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS
  HUMIDITY CONTROL & TARGETS INDOORS
  HOUSEWRAP AIR & VAPOR BARRIERS
  LOG HOME Leak Diagnosis & Cure
  LOG HOME Condensation &Moisture
  MOISTURE in BUILDING WALLS, EFFECTS
  MOISTURE in CELLULOSE INSULATION
  MOISTURE CALCULATIONS
  MOISTURE CONTROL in BUILDINGS
  MOISTURE METER STUDY
  MOISTURE PROBLEMS: CAUSE & CURE
  MOLD in buildings
  Mold in Fiberglass Insulation
  Mold on Books, Book Conservation
  Mold on Fiberboard Insulating Sheathing
  MOLD PREVENTION AFTER FLOODING
  MOLD RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
  ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
  Soffit Intake Vents & Attic Condensation
  VAPOR BARRIERS & CONDENSATION in buildings
  VENTILATION DESIGN PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS
  VENTILATION, WHOLE HOUSE STRATEGIES
  WATER ENTRY in buildings
  WINDOW LEAKS INTO BASEMENT
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 RESISTANT LUMBER
ROT, TIMBER FRAME
ROT, TIMBER ASSESSMENT

ROOF ARCHITECTURAL STYLES - PHOTO GUIDE
ROOF CLEANING RECOMMENDATIONS
ROOF COLOR RECOMMENDATIONS
ROOF DORMER TYPES - PHOTO GUIDE
ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
  ATTIC VENTILATION
  CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
  CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
  HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
  Inspect Attics for Moisture or Mold
  Inspect Attics for Blocked Soffit Intake Vent
  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
  Roof Venting: Intake - Outlet Area Ratios
  Roof Venting: Proper Locations
  Roof Venting: Both Ridge & Eaves Venting Needed
  Roof Venting: Eaves Intake if no Overhang
  Roof Venting: Soffit Intake Vent-Continuous
  Roof Venting: Un-Vented Hot Roof Solutions
  ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS
  ROOF VENTING NEEDED?
  SKYLIGHT VENTILATION DETAILS
  SOFFIT VENTILATION
  TERMITE SHIELDS vs TERMITICIDE
ROT RESISTANT LUMBER
ROT, TIMBER FRAME
ROT, TIMBER ASSESSMENT

SEARS KIT HOUSES

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 & in BUILDINGS, CAUSES & CURES
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 Cracking of Brick
THERMAL EXPANSION of HOT WATER
THERMAL EXPANSION of MATERIALS
THERMAL IMAGING, THERMOGRAPHY
THERMAL IMAGING MOLD SCANS
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
VENTILATION in BUILDINGS
  Air Bypass Leaks, Thermal Tracking
  AIR CHANGE RATE ACH HEAT SAVINGS
  ATTIC CONDENSATION CAUSE & CURE
  BALANCED VENTILATION, HEAT COST SAVINGS
  BATH & KITCHEN DESIGN GUIDE
  BATHROOM VENTILATION
  Blocked Soffit Intake Vents
  BLOWER DOORS & AIR INFILTRATION
  BLOWN-IN INSULATION
  BRICK or BLOCK WALL CAVITY INSULATION
  BRICK VENEER WALL AIR LEAKS
  CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
  CATHEDRAL CEILING VENTILATION
  CLOTHES DRYER VENTING
  COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by ROOF VENTS
  CRAWL SPACE VENTING & Dryout Procedures
  HEAT LOSS: How to Calculate Heat Loss in a Building
  HOT ROOF DESIGNS: Un-Vented Roof Solutions
  HOUSEWRAP AIR & VAPOR BARRIERS
  HUMIDITY LEVEL TARGET
  ICE DAM PREVENTION
  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
  MOISTURE CONTROL in BUILDINGS
  MOISTURE CALCULATIONS
  MOISTURE CONTROL in BUILDINGS
  MOISTURE METER STUDY
  MOISTURE PROBLEMS: CAUSE & CURE
  ROOF VENTILATION SPECIFICATIONS
  ROOF VENTING ENERGY SAVING DETAILS
  ROOF VENTING NEEDED?
  SKYLIGHT VENTILATION DETAILS
  SOFFIT VENTILATION
  VENTILATION, BALANCED HEAT COST SAVINGS
  VENTILATION DESIGN PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS
  VENTILATION, WHOLE HOUSE STRATEGIES

WALL SIDING TRIM & FINISHES
WALL FINISHES INTERIOR
WALL CONSTRUCTION BARRIER vs CAVITY
WATER BARRIERS, EXTERIOR BUILDING
WATER ENTRY in buildings
WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS
WIND TURBINES & LIGHTNING
WIND WASHING INSULATION At EAVES
WINDOWS & DOORS
  ALUMINUM WINDOWS
  Best Practices Guide for Windows & Doors:
  CLIMATE, WINDOW CHOICES FOR
  CONDENSATION on WINDOWS & SKYLIGHTS
  Doors, Exterior, Energy Efficiency Guide
  Doors, Exterior Flashing Details
  Doors, Exterior, Frames
  DOORS, EXTERIOR, Selecting & Installing
  DOORS, INTERIOR
  FIBERGLASS WINDOWS
  GLASS vs HEAT MIRROR SOLAR GAIN/Loss
  HURRICANE, WIND, & STORM-Resistant WINDOWS
  LOW-E WINDOW GLAZING
  LOW-E VS QUAD-GLAZING
  LOW-E RETROFIT ADD-ON FILMS
  POLYCARBONATE GLAZING
  SITE BUILT DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS
  SKYLIGHTS, Guide to Choosing & Installing
  Skylight Condensation Problems
  Skylight Design Issues
  Skylight Energy Efficiency
  Skylight Installation Procedures
  SKYLIGHT LEAK DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
  SKYLIGHT VENTILATION DETAILS
  SLIDING GLIDING WINDOW DEFECTS
  SLOPED GLAZING DETAILS
  SOLAR SHADES & SUNSCREENS
  STORM WINDOW INTERIOR
  STORM WINDOW PLASTIC CHOICES
  STORM WINDOW WEEP HOLES
  SUNGAIN, FILMS, LOW-E GLASS
  SUNSPACE GLAZING for SUNTANNING
  VERTICAL GLAZING DETAILS
  VINYL WINDOWS
  VINYL / PVC WINDOW WARPING
  WINDOW / DOOR ENERGY EFFICIENT, DOE
  WINDOW / DOOR AIR LEAK SEALING HOW TO
  Window Certification
  WINDOW EFFICIENCY Features & Ratings
  WINDOW FLASHING & SEALING Guide
  WINDOW GLAZING Based on Climate
  WINDOW HARDWARE PHOTOS
  Window Installation, Flange-Type
  Window Installation, w/ Integral Brickmold
  WINDOW LEAKS INTO BASEMENT
  Window Materials & Construction
  Window Types, Guide
  WINDOW TYPES - Photo Guide
  Window & Door Sources

WINTERIZE A BUILDING
WOOD, COAL STOVES & FIREPLACES
WOOD STOVE SAFETY

ZONE DAMPERS
ZONE VALVES

More Information

Roof venting details save on energy cost (C) Daniel Friedman

Roof Ventilation Details for Energy Conservation
     

  • Roof framing options and construction details that permit optimum roof ventilation to also conserve energy, reducing cooling & heating costs
    • Roof ice dam leaks can be cured or avoided by these roof and attic venting details
  • Solar Age Magazine Articles on Renewable Energy, Energy Savings, Construction Practices
  • Questions & answers about the relationship between roof ventilation & building energy costs
  • References

Click to Show or Hide Related Topics

  • ENERGY SAVINGS in buildings - home
  • AFUE DEFINITION, RATINGS
  • AIR BYPASS LEAKS
  • AIR CHANGE RATE ACH HEAT SAVINGS
  • AIR CONDITIONING HEAT PUMP SAVINGS
  • AIR LEAK DETECTION TOOLS - home
  • AIR SEALING STRATEGIES
  • BASEMENT HEAT LOSS
  • BTU USAGE MONITORS
  • CATHEDRAL CEILING INSULATION
  • COOLING LOAD REDUCTION by VENTS
  • DRYER VENTING
  • DUCT SYSTEM & DUCT DEFECTS
  • 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, SOLAR
  • EVAPORATIVE COOLING SYSTEMS
  • FRAMING DETAILS for BETTER INSULATION
  • GLASS vs HEAT MIRROR SOLAR GAIN/Loss
  • HEAT LOSS in BUILDINGS - home
  • HEAT LOSS DETECTION TOOLS
  • HEATING COST APPORTIONMENT, BTU MONITORS
  • HEATING COST SAVINGS METHODS
  • HIGH MASS TRADEOFFS, HEATING vs COOLING
  • HOUSE DOCTOR, how-to be
  • INDOOR AIR QUALITY & HOUSE TIGHTNESS
  • INSULATION INSPECTION & IMPROVEMENT
  • INSULATION LOCATION - WHERE TO PUT IT
  • INSULATION R-Values & Properties
  • LOG HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY
  • RADIANT BARRIERS
  • RADIANT HEAT
  • REFLECTIVE INSULATION
  • RIGID FOAM USE INDOORS
  • ROOF COLOR RECOMMENDATIONS
  • SKYLIGHT ENERGY EFFICIENCY
  • SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
  • THERMAL IMAGING, THERMOGRAPHY
  • THERMAL MASS in buildings
  • THERMAL TRACKING & HEAT LOSS
  • TIMERS for ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS
  • VENTILATION, BALANCED SAVINGS
  • WALL CONSTRUCTION BARRIER vs CAVITY
  • WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS
  • WINDOW EFFICIENCY Features & Ratings
  • WOOD, COAL STOVES & FIREPLACES
InspectAPedia tolerates no conflicts of interest. We have no relationship with advertisers, products, or services discussed at this website.

This article discusses saving energy by roof framing options and construction details that permit optimum roof ventilation to also conserve energy, reducing cooling & heating costs. Sketch at page top and accompanying text are reprinted/adapted/excerpted with permission from Solar Age Magazine - editor Steven Bliss.

Green links show where you are. © Copyright 2013 InspectAPedia.com, All Rights Reserved. Author Daniel Friedman.

Article on Roof Structural Details to Prevent Ice Dams while Saving Energy Costs

"Detailing for Roof Ventilation, the insulated roof requires a few adjustments in detailing - all the changes for the better" - links to the original article in PDF form immediately below are followed by an expanded/updated online version of this article.

  • Roof Ventilation Details - PDF form, use your browser's back button to return to this page
  • Roof Ventilation Details - part 2
  • Roof Ventilation Details - part 3

Roof ventilation design details (C) Daniel FriedmanProvide Adequate Roof Cavity Space for Lots of Ventilation and Lots of Insulation

This roof ventilation design details article from Steven Bliss's "Building it Right" column in Solar Age Magazine and available in the three links just above, describes a few adjustments for insulated roofs that will assure good ventilation without wasting building heating or cooling energy. The author explains the basics of ice dams and ice dam leaks on buildings, the need for a 1- to 2-inch air space over the outer wall top plate, and the importance of continuing the air ventilation pathway up under the roof to the ridge outlet. At the same time, good roof ventilation design prevents leaks from wind, rain, insects, and rodents.

Good attic or under-roof ventilation and insulation design is described for truss roofs as well as framing tips to save time and construction costs. The "raised-heel" or Arkansas truss design is explained - a method for obtaining additional insulation over the top plate for buildings constructed in cold climates. For cathedral ceilings the author recommends flat trusses to provide adequate ceiling depth to permit both good insulation and good air ventilation in the structure.

Use Roof Vents and Roof Eaves Baffles to Assure Air Inflow for Roof Ventilation

The writer explains the use of vertical blocking or baffles to provide airflow passage between each pair of rafters or roof trusses. Where blown-in insulation is to be installed, the baffles need to continue all of the way up to the ridge outlet vent. Baffles may be site constructed using hardboard or manufactured rigid roof baffle products. Raised heel or flat truss design roofs include a vertical baffle flush with the side wall sheathing, or building wall sheathing can be continued vertically to form the baffle.

Additional Roof Venting & Gutter Details to Prevent Leaks and Rot at Roof Eaves

The writer, an advocate of the fully-vented cold-roof building design (to prevent ice dams, attic or roof condensation, and related rot or mold problems as well as providing a cooler building in hot weather) reviews gutter hanging details to assure that leaks do not occur at the vented roof eaves such as using strap hangers to keep gutters away from the fascia board, and placing the gutters low enough in snow-regions that the gutters won't be knocked off of the building by sliding snow and ice.

Options to provide intake venting at the overhang or soffit at the roof eaves include locating a continuous vent strip at the outermost edge of the overhang to minimize wind-blown rain entering the soffit from below. The author cites model building codes on the amount of net free roof vent area in the attic: 1/300 of the ceiling area if the ceiling has a vapor barrier, and 1/150 of the ceiling area if no vapor barrier is installed. We agree with the article's conclusion that these code specifications were written long ago when houses were more drafty, and when the prime concern was winter condensation risks. Because of the increased use of air conditioning in buildings even in northern climates, summer energy costs have become a concern also suggesting that more ventilation than these minimums is recommended today. Finally, if a whole house fan is to be installed blowing into the roof space or attic, still larger ventilation areas will be needed for the fan to work effectively (and to avoid a fire risk).

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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Technical Reviewers & References

Related Topics, found near the top of this page suggest articles closely related to this one.

  • 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."
  • Steve Bliss's Building Advisor at buildingadvisor.com helps homeowners & contractors plan & complete successful building & remodeling projects: buying land, site work, building design, cost estimating, materials & components, & project management through complete construction. Email: info@buildingadvisor.com
    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
  • Mark Cramer Inspection Services Mark Cramer, Tampa Florida, Mr. Cramer is a past president of ASHI, the American Society of Home Inspectors and is a Florida home inspector and home inspection educator. Mr. Cramer serves on the ASHI Home Inspection Standards. Contact Mark Cramer at: 727-595-4211 mark@BestTampaInspector.com
  • John Cranor is an ASHI member and a home inspector (The House Whisperer) is located in Glen Allen, VA 23060. He is also a contributor to InspectApedia.com in several technical areas such as plumbing and appliances (dryer vents). Contact Mr. Cranor at 804-747-7747 or by Email: johncranor@verizon.net
  • Carson, Dunlop &
Associates Ltd., TorontoCarson, Dunlop & Associates Ltd., 120 Carlton Street Suite 407, Toronto ON M5A 4K2. (416) 964-9415 1-800-268-7070 info@carsondunlop.com. The firm provides professional home inspection services & home inspection education & publications. Alan Carson is a past president of ASHI, the American Society of Home Inspectors. Thanks to Alan Carson and Bob Dunlop, for permission for InspectAPedia to use text excerpts from The Home Reference Book & illustrations from The Illustrated Home. Carson Dunlop Associates' provides:
    • Commercial Building Inspection Courses - protocol ASTM Standard E 2018-08 for Property Condition Assessments
    • Home Inspection Education Courses including home study & live classes at eleven colleges & universities.
    • Home Inspection Education Home Study Courses - ASHI@Home Training 10-course program.
      Special Offer: Carson Dunlop Associates offers InspectAPedia readers in the U.S.A. a 5% discount on these courses: Enter INSPECTAHITP in the order payment page "Promo/Redemption" space. InspectAPedia.com editor Daniel Friedman is a contributing author.
    • The Home Reference Book, a reference & inspection report product for building owners & inspectors.
      Special Offer: For a 10% discount on any number of copies of the Home Reference Book purchased as a single order. Enter INSPECTAHRB in the order payment page "Promo/Redemption" space. InspectAPedia.com editor Daniel Friedman is a contributing author.
    • The Home Reference eBook, an electronic version for PCs, the iPad, iPhone, & Android smart phones.
      Special Offer: For a 5% discount on any number of copies of the Home Reference eBook purchased as a single order. Enter inspectaehrb in the order payment page "Promo/Redemption" space.
    • The Illustrated Home illustrates construction details and building components, a reference for owners & inspectors.
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    • The Horizon Software System manages business operations,scheduling, & inspection report writing using Carson Dunlop's knowledge base & color images. The Horizon system runs on always-available cloud-based software for office computers, laptops, tablets, iPad, Android, & other smartphones.
  • Passive Solar Design Handbook Volume I, the Passive Solar Handbook Introduction to Passive Solar Concepts, in a version used by the U.S. Air Force - online version available at this link and from the USAF also at wbdg.org/ccb/AF/AFH/pshbk_v1.pdf
  • Passive Solar Design Handbook Volume II, the Passive Solar Handbook Comprehensive Planning Guide, in a version used by the U.S. Air Force - online version available at this link and from the USAF also at wbdg.org/ccb/AF/AFH/pshbk_v2.pdf [This is a large PDF file that can take a while to load]
  • Passive Solar Handbook Volume III, the Passive Solar Handbook Programming Guide, in a version used by the U.S. Air Force - online version available at this link and from the USAF also at wbdg.org/ccb/AF/AFH/pshbk_v3.pdf
  • The Passive Solar Design and Construction Handbook, Steven Winter Associates (Author), Michael J. Crosbie (Editor), Wiley & Sons, ISBN 978-047118382 or 0471183083 is available at Amazon.com and via the The Passive Solar Design and Construction Handbook, Steven Winter Associates (Author), Michael J. Crosbie (Editor), Wiley & Sons, ISBN 978-047118382 or 0471183083 is available at Amazon.com and via the InspectAPedia Bookstore
  • "Passive Solar Home Design", U.S. Department of Energy, describes using a home's windows, walls, and floors to collect and store solar energy for winter heating and also rejecting solar heat in warm weather.
  • "Solar Water Heaters", U.S. Department of Energy article on solar domestic water heaters to generate domestic hot water in buildings, explains how solar water heaters work. Solar heat for swimming pools is also discussed.
  • "Heat Exchangers for Solar Water Heating Systems", U.S. DOE describes the types of solar water heater heat exchange methods between the sun and the building's hot water supply
  • "Heat-Transfer Fluids for Solar Water Heating Systems", U.S. DOE, describes the types of fluids selected to transfer heat between the solar collector and the hot water in storage tanks in a building. These include air, water, water with glycol antifreeze mixtures (needed when using solar hot water systems in freezing climates), hydrocarbon oils, and refrigerants or silicones for heat transfer.
  • "Solar Water Heating System Maintenance and Repair", U.S. DOE
  • "Solar Water Heating System Freeze Protection", U.S. DOE,using antifreeze mixture in solar water heaters (or other freeze-resistant heat transfer fluids), as well as piping to permit draining the solar collector and piping system.
  • "Scaling and Corrosion in Solar Water Heating Systems", U.S. DOE
  • www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12850 is the base U.S. DOE website for these articles
  • "Active Solar Heating Systems", U.S. Department of Energy, including
  • "Radiant Heating Systems" U.S. DOE
  • "Absorption Heat Pumps & Coolers", U.S. DOE
  • "Solar Air Heating" U.S. DOE also referred to as "Ventilation Preheating" in which solar systems use air for absorbing and transferring solar energy or heat to a building
  • "Solar Liquid Heating" U.S. DOE, systems using liquid (typically water) in flat plate solar collectors to collect solar energy in the form of heat for transfer into a building for space heating or hot water heating. The term "solar liquid" is used for accuracy, rather than "solar water" because the water may contain an antifreeze or other chemicals.

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.
  • Home Reference Book - Carson DunlopThe Home Reference Book - the Encyclopedia of Homes, Carson Dunlop & Associates, Toronto, Ontario, 25th Ed., 2012, is a bound volume of more than 450 illustrated pages that assist home inspectors and home owners in the inspection and detection of problems on buildings. The text is intended as a reference guide to help building owners operate and maintain their home effectively. Field inspection worksheets are included at the back of the volume. Special Offer: For a 10% discount on any number of copies of the Home Reference Book purchased as a single order. Enter INSPECTAHRB in the order payment page "Promo/Redemption" space. InspectAPedia.com editor Daniel Friedman is a contributing author.

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