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It’s Wet. Is It a Leak, or Is It Condensation?
There is water somewhere it is not supposed to be. It is not raining. There is no burst pipe nearby. And yet, wet. The heck? First: Is It Actually a Leak? This is the right question to start with, because condensation and water intrusion get confused often. The key difference is timing. Water intrusion through…
The Thermal Envelope Certificate Is Not a Substitute for Stretch Code–Compliant Design
Under the Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code, the thermal envelope certificate is often misunderstood. It’s often treated as an administrative requirement to be addressed at the end of a project—something to be obtained after design and construction decisions have already been made. In reality, the certificate is intended to document compliance with the Stretch Code’s envelope…
Hands On: Exploratory Openings, Mock-ups, and Training
Building envelope systems work, or don’t, because of physical real-world details. Air and water don’t care how it’s drawn—the only thing that matters is how it actually is.
First Principles
- For a high-level overview of how to approach building envelope problems, as well as links to tons of trustworthy (and free!) online resources, check out Building Envelope Self-Help.
- Learn why most of what we do is about keeping water from getting where it is not supposed to be.
- Confused about air barriers and vapor barriers? We got you covered.
- Here’s a whole post about the “four barriers” (water, air, thermal, vapor)… coming soon
Applied Building Science
- Thermal Bridging, Derating, and the new 10th Edition MA Stretch Energy Code
- Energy Use Intensity: What Is EUI and Why Does It Matter?
- Edge Metal is Essential
Tips and Tricks
- How to Fix Ice Dam Roof Leaks
- How to Make Vinyl Siding Look Good
- 7 Tips for a Better Condominium Building Envelope Project
- 4 Tips for a Better Commercial Roof Replacement Project
- Don’t Buy Replacement Windows
- Cold Weather Masonry