Green Homes News

I was working on balancing a system yesterday and ran into a situation where we couldn't get the rated air flow out of the system.  Long story short, I ended…

A Wisconsin couple set out to build a resilient net-zero homestead largely on their own. The first step was creating a design that balanced performance, affordability, accessibility, and self-reliance.

I’ve posted before about the fire smoke filtration system I’ve been working with for about 3 years now.  It’s based around an 8” AC Infinity (refillable) carbon canister, and a…

I have a large 2nd floor Master with a double gable vaulted ceiling. The interior ceiling is beautiful wood that I want to keep intact. I'm about to start a…

Hey all. Seeing if anyone has slick ideas on how to air seal simple attic access. I have a few ideas but trying not to reinvent the wheel. Photo attached.…

hi all againwe are currently specifying a gas start/wood burning fireplace for the family room in a near passive home.at the international builder show, spent some time with Renasaince, as…

All,We are finally in the home stretch of the design process and hope to be breaking ground by October of this year on the first building, a detached garage, which…

How water testing and treatment are critical to ensuring clean, safe water from your faucets

Based on Martin’s answer here: https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/question/vented-attic-vapor-retarder US building codes do not require vented cathedral ceilings in zones 1-5 to have a vapor retarder (just need an air barrier). I also…

Hi all. I have a question about the proper technique for dense-packing cellulose into existing wall cavities…Short version:  When dense-packing a wall cavity with cellulose, how important is it for…

BCI joists are blocked at rim joist with BCI cutoffs, leaving a 3/4-1” air gap between the block and rim joist (due to outward facing half of BCI flange). Considering…

I've designed an 8'x8' cathedral ceiling mudroom for clients in Kingston NY - Zone 6A. Although the addition is unheated and will be constructed on pier footings (not a full…

Hello Good People,For context, I'm residing my 1960 Cape in Boston, MA Climate Zone 6A. The house previously had cedar shingles over 1/2" fiberboard and tar paper, with board sheathing…

Rising housing costs, higher interest rates, and changing household demographics are pushing homebuyers to prioritize efficient, flexible living spaces over larger homes

EDIT:  I meant to reply to Martin’s post in advance framing.  That is the illustration I’m referencing in my question, for clarification.  Anyway, Im in the midst of building a…

Looking for someone experienced in brick monopoly framed details to help or provide construction details for a new build. Project is in the Southeastern US. Thanks.

Is there an effective method to seal out VOCs from Tremco, etc, that is buried in a wall assembly?  Interior drywall and primer/paint, are not a complete barrier as I…

Picked up a roll of vintage copper/bronze screen ~4'x100' (over 50 lbs).Looking to put it to use at the Sill Plate, new construction home climate 5A.Originally planning on making a…

Hello!We are currently planning a closet design/build and I suspect that putting MDF panels (as the closet backer) up against drywall could be potential for a moisture problem (where the…

Vented and unvented roofs have diffferent insulation requirements that aren't always apparent