Introduction: In an era defined by climate change and growing environmental consciousness, the field of building science has emerged as a guiding light for architects and engineers seeking to construct sustainable, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly buil...
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Building a tight house and using an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) can help improve the air quality of a house in several ways: 1. Reduced infiltration of outdoor pollutants: A tight house has fewer air leaks, which means that outdoor pollutants such a...
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According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the air inside an average home in the United States can be two to five times more polluted than the air outside. This is due to a variety of factors, including poor ventilation, the use of certain ho...
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The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 established for Freddie Mac a duty to help preserve affordable housing for families with very low, low, and moderate incomes. Improving the energy efficiency of single-family homes is one crucial way to achiev...
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While insulation does reduce air movement through wall cavities to some extent, its purpose is to control the flow of heat, not the flow of air. That's why house wrap is one of the most common strategies for limiting air leakage. A study from the Nation...
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To meet the new requirements, builders must prioritize airtight construction. Achieving airtight structures can be a difficult task since the typical residence has nearly one mile of exterior joints1 that can leak air. The air sealing sections of the 20...
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Builders think that as energy codes become more stringent, the need for HERS raters will increase. • HERS raters can help builders better understand how to achieve the target results. • Some expect HERS ratings will become the measure of code compl...
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Builders believe there are many things raters can do to differentiate themselves. • Back the builder's approach. Sometimes homeowners question a builder's choices; supporting a builder with the homeowner reinforces his credibility and can help him en...
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When asked to describe HERS raters, builders' responses showed their respect for raters, and also indicated what they value most from them. • HERS raters must be building science experts. Builders expect to rely on the rater's knowledge and expertise...
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Understanding expectations can improve communications between builders and raters, making it easier for them to work together to advance the common goal of "greener" homes. Introduction Builders are a capable and self-reliant bunch. They know a thing...
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