Tools of the Trade

Being effective building scientist-detectives requires the use of advanced diagnostic equipment.  Standard energy audit gear includes:

• Blower Door – Creates a pressure difference (measured in Pascals) between the interior and exterior of a home in order to quantify the air leakage throughout the building envelope and also to identify sources of air leakage.  Used by Energy Smart to conduct energy audits, to assess before and after effectiveness of remediation efforts, and to test for code compliance in new construction (as per IRC 2009).
• Infrared Camera – Uses high definition color spectrum to depict subtle temperature differences around the interior and exterior of the home.  Used by Energy Smart during energy audits to gauge insulation values within walls (which cannot be seen by the unaided eye) and to identify sources of air leakage.
• Duct Blaster – Creates a pressure difference between the interior and exterior of a duct system to quantify air leakage.  Used by Energy Smart mainly to test for code compliance in new construction (as per IRC 2009).
• Combustion Gas Detectors – Detect the presence of potentially harmful combustion byproducts (especially carbon monoxide) and gas leaks.  Used by Energy Smart during every energy audit to ensure the safety of home occupants.

Regardless of whether its a new home or a fixer-upper, achieving energy efficiency in the home is a matter of using the right tools.  A few of the most effective tools we use in the field include:

• 1-Part and 2-Part Spray Foam – These allow us to create an air seal around the building envelope, which prevents the movement of unwanted, uncontrolled air into and out of the home.  Target areas for 1-part and 2-part spray foam include along the rim and band joist in basement and subfloor areas, along top plates in the attic, and around any penetrations in the building envelope (e.g., for wiring and piping).
• High Density Cellulose - This cutting edge material is a win-win-win for insulation work.  When cellulose is applied at a density of roughly three pounds per square foot, it acts as both an air sealing and insulating material.  The R-value of high density cellulose is not only superior to that of fiberglass pound for pound, it also maintains its effectiveness at low temperatures (studies have shown fiberglass gradually loses its insulating value as temperatures decrease below 40 degrees Fahrenheit).  High density cellulose is manufactured from recycled content, making it environmentally friendly.  Finally, the borate material used as a fire retardant in high density cellulose acts as a fungicide and pesticide, thus contributing to the prevention of mold growth and the control of pests.  Target areas for high density cellulose are sidewalls and attics.
• Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) - This durable membrane, commonly used by roofers, is ideal for controlling moisture and airflow in basement crawlspaces.  When used in conjunction with 1-part and 2-part spray foam, TPO can effectively prevent crawlspace moisture and air from infiltrating and diminishing the quality of the the home living space above.