Home Performance

Ready your envelope – Part 1 is an overview of the role of a tight building envelope. In Part 2 and Part 3 we looked at the movement of heat and water. Finally, let’s consider pressure differences. Why it matters: With pressure differences, air and everything it carries (heat, moisture, contaminants) is moving from higher […]

Ready your envelope – Part 1 is an overview of the role of a tight building envelope. We covered the first of the three basic laws of physics that relate to building tightness in Part 2. Why it matters: The leakiness of your house is directly related to your ability to control the conditions inside.

Ready your envelope – Part 1 is an overview of the role of a tight building envelope. “A house needs to breathe” is a cliche in the world of contracting that is just … false. Why it matters: This is a way to describe a leaky house and a leaky house cannot maintain the cold

Yes, you probably do. Why it matters: Unless your home can maintain a relative humidity (RH) of below 60% (55% would be better), you need to dehumidify. 🖼️ The big picture: High humidity leads to poor indoor air quality and damages building materials. Dust mites do not thrive below 55%RH — and dust mites are one

My wife asked me this morning about the timing for doing laundry. She saw a notice from our electric provider about possible grid issues during this heat advisory. Why it matters: We will see the grid pushed to it’s capacity more than once this summer. ⚙️ How it works: Since I have solar and a battery,

I woke up to find all of my windows covered in condensation. Why it matters: Condensation can damage building materials. Knowing when it will occur can inform how we manage the issue. 🤓 Nerd alert! The good news is I won’t make you do any math. 🖼️ The big picture: Water condenses on a surfaces when that

As temperatures rise, staying comfortable in our homes is more challenging. Why it matters: Comfort is important for productive days and restful nights. The number of design flaws in our homes and mechanical systems affect the level of difficulty for staying comfortable. ⚙️ How it works: 6 factors affect comfort: Metabolic rate —> Varies among individuals

🧠 Today, a thought experiment. I drive a 2020 Tacoma truck that should get 20 mpg. 😨 One day I realize … I’m only getting 10 mpg! 👨‍🔧 Guy at the auto shop says, You need our “tank extender” —> fits in the bed of your truck and doubles the size of your gas tank. Now you can