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Insulation

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  • Energy Efficiency
  • Air-Sealing
  • Choosing Insulation
  • Installing Insulation
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Design

How to Air-Seal Mudsills

In this video, architect Steve Baczek demonstrates how to create an airtight connection between the framing and foundation, a critical component to a Passive House.

By Steven Baczek

In this video, architect Steve Baczek demonstrates how to create an airtight mudsill, one of the most critical components to a Passive House. The mudsill must be done right the first time to prevent any future air leakage, which can be caused by minor imperfections.

Watch the videos and read the articles in this series (links below), then head on over to GreenBuildingAdvisor.com to join the conversation with the designer of this house, Architect Steve Baczek.

All articles in this series:

“The Passive House Build, Part One: Designed for Success” (FHB #240)

“The Passive House Build, Part Two: Air-Sealed Mudsill Assembly” (FHB #241)

“The Passive House Build, Part Three: Superinsulated Slab” (FHB #242)

“The Passive House Build, Part Four: Framing for Efficiency” (FHB #244)

“The Passive House Build, Part Five: Installing High-Performance Windows” (FHB #245)

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Videos in the Series

  • The Passive House Build, Part 1: Designed for Success

    In this video architect Steve Baczek walks us through the process of designing and building a neighborhood home to meet the strict Passive House energy-efficiency standard.

  • How to Air-Seal Mudsills

    In this video, architect Steve Baczek demonstrates how to create an airtight connection between the framing and foundation, a critical component to a Passive House.

  • The Passive House Build, Part 3: Superinsulated Slab

    Watch the crew install a 10-inch-thick insulated slab assembly, which provides an R value of 50 in the floor system.

  • The Passive House Build, Part 4: Framing for Efficiency

    Double-stud walls and trusses create the ideal shell for an economical and efficient building.

  • How to Install High-Performance Windows

    In this video, architect Steve Baczek explains the challenges of installing this unique window package.

Previous: Air-Sealed Mudsill Assembly Next: Installing ZIP System Sheathing: Taping Seams and Corners

Guide

Insulation

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Air-Sealing

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Insulation

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Energy Efficiency
  • Understanding Energy and Houses
  • Building Energy-Efficient Homes
Air-Sealing
  • Air-Sealing Basics
  • Air-Sealing Tools and Materials
  • Foundations and Floors
  • Walls, Windows, and Doors
  • Attics and Roofs
Choosing Insulation
  • Insulation Basics
  • Material Choices
Installing Insulation
  • Insulating Attics and Roofs
  • Insulating Walls
  • Insulating Floors, Footings, and Slabs
  • Insulating Foundation Walls
Water Management
  • Water-Management Principles
  • Materials
  • Installation Methods

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