I’ve been asked this question a few times. “At what point do I need to add mechanical ventilation to my home?” The answer, it depends. Continue reading “Energy Audit-Ventilation Recommendations”
Never Seen Again
When was the last time had your hair cut? Did you walk in and say I have $15, do whatever you can for that budget, or did you have something more specific in mind? Continue reading “Never Seen Again”
Construction Design-Concreteless Slab on Grade-Mechanical Systems.
The concreteless slab on grade home had a lot of unique building materials and techniques, at least for my area of Northern Minnesota. The mechanicals of the home were no different. Continue reading “Construction Design-Concreteless Slab on Grade-Mechanical Systems.”
Building Science-Resources
A few months ago on Instagram, I posted my favorite resources. I spend about an hour every morning looking at several websites and Instagram feeds to see what’s new and hopefully gain knowledge. Continue reading “Building Science-Resources”
Energy Audit-Electric Underfloor Heat
I recently conducted an energy assessment on a 25 year old home with electric underfloor heat. Back when I was working as a residential electrician, we installed several of these systems Continue reading “Energy Audit-Electric Underfloor Heat”
Construction Design-Concreteless Slab on Grade-Roof
The concreteless slab on grade home has one level. I knew the heating system for this home was going to contain ductwork, along with other ducts for bath fans, a dryer and a kitchen range hood. Continue reading “Construction Design-Concreteless Slab on Grade-Roof”
Construction Design-Attached Heated Garage
I consider the attached, heated garage a luxury item. I used to have one, it was nice not having to scrape ice or clean snow off my vehicles. Having a warm car when it’s below zero outside was also nice. Continue reading “Construction Design-Attached Heated Garage”
Construction Design-Heating and Cooling Systems in a Slab on Grade Home
Single level slab on grade homes are becoming more common in my area. Being in a very cold climate, choosing a heating system Continue reading “Construction Design-Heating and Cooling Systems in a Slab on Grade Home”
Construction Design-Concreteless Slab on Grade-Walls
The concreteless slab on grade home was in the planning stage for over a year. One of the first conversations I had with the owners was they wanted a home that was comfortable, healthy and had low operating costs. Extra insulation and good air sealing is how we planned on accomplishing these goals. Continue reading “Construction Design-Concreteless Slab on Grade-Walls”
Construction Design-Interior Air Barrier? Exterior Air Barrier? Or Both!
When designing the concrete-less slab on grade home, I gave serious thought to the location of the air barrier. I have used water resistive barrier (WRB) or house wraps for years without a good understanding how they work as an air barrier. In my climate, most homes use polyethylene sheeting as an interior (and main) air barrier. As it turns out, there are better choices. Continue reading “Construction Design-Interior Air Barrier? Exterior Air Barrier? Or Both!”