Building Science and Home Performance

a picture of three cartoon homes with solar panels on the roofs, with white exterior walls and green roofs

ICF Walls: 9 Key Benefits Of Using Them vs Conventional

Insulated concrete form is an innovative building material typically made with polystyrene foam blocks with gaps in between to pour a concrete wall. In the past, ICF was mainly used to build foundation walls. However, various builders are now going a step further and using it to build walls of one, two, and three-story homes.

How Much Does a Radiant Barrier Save in Energy (And Money)?

Radiant barriers are a kind of home insulation that reflects heat, preventing it from entering (and exiting) an attic. The flag-bearer for energy efficiency – at least where home insulation is concerned – radiant barriers are a popular choice among cost-conscious and eco-friendly homeowners seeking to keep their space comfortable while lowering energy costs.

Radiant Barriers in Northern States like New York: Do It?

With a lot of confusion surrounding the use and efficacy of radiant barriers, it isn’t a surprise to learn that many homeowners are discouraged from investing in them. In addition, there is commonly even more uncertainty among homeowners in northern states than in the south, as houses in this region are generally less exposed to year-round heat, causing them to wonder if this technology is suitable for their home.

ERVs: What Effects Do They Have on Air Quality? 

Inhaling poor quality indoor air can be as bad as breathing outside in a polluted environment. In addition, it is harmful to the overall health of the residents who are living in this air. It can also cause structural and cosmetic damage to the overall design of the building or home.  Poor air quality is why mechanical ventilation systems, such as ERVs, are critical and becoming increasingly popular over recent years.