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Building Envelope

Spotlight Article:

Weather-Stripping Windows with V-Strip

An in-depth window study on six homes compares the effectiveness of plastic vs. metal weatherstripping.

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Where Radiant Barriers Really Shine

Author: Richard Engel

archive CONTENT

July 01, 1996

Manufacturers of radiant barrier materials claim that their products significantly cut cooling costs by reducing summertime radiant heat gain through attics and ceilings (see "Conservation Clips: Radiant Barriers Test Well," p. 45). A new study confirms that radiant barriers can indeed conserve cooling energy. [continue reading]

New Pioneering in Straw Bale Building

Author: Alex Jaccaci and Steven Bodzin

archive CONTENT

July 01, 1996

No, they're not living in haylofts. The horses don't knock the houses down for bedding. And the big bad wolf doesn't chase the residents off in search of bricks and mortar. [continue reading]

A Plan to Stop Fluffing and Cheating in Attic Insulation

Author: Nan Wishner

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May 01, 1996

In the mid-1980s, a Georgia utility became concerned about the large number of attic insulation jobs being done for its energy-efficient home construction program that failed to meet the program's standards. [continue reading]

Drawbacks Of Powered Attic Ventilators

Author: Ted Rieger

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November 01, 1995

Powered attic ventilators, already suspected of using more energy than they save, can also create excess moisture, structural problems, discomfort, and combustion safety problems for home occupants, according to a recent study. [continue reading]

Researchers Approach Builders on Duct Location

Author: David A. Jump

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November 01, 1995

It is common practice in California to put ducts outside the conditioned space, in attics and crawlspaces. These duct systems are typically 50%-70% efficient due mostly to air leakage and heat transfer losses, while sealed conditioned-space duct installations have efficiencies over 90%. O [continue reading]