Top 5 Mistakes Builders Make (and how to fix them)
Dec 13, 2024
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Discover the top five blunders Texas builders often make. Learn why placing ductwork in unconditioned attics leads to inefficiencies and mold. Explore the vulnerabilities of flimsy cardboard sheathing and the superiority of durable alternatives. Unmask the myth that homes need to breathe as better airtight designs enhance air quality. Delve into issues with stucco installation and the benefits of using thermally broken frames for windows and doors. Embrace sustainable practices for improved energy efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Relocating ductwork from unconditioned attics to insulated spaces prevents energy loss and mold growth in Texas's extreme heat.
Replacing fragile cardboard sheathing with durable materials like plywood or OSB significantly enhances a home's resilience against water and air infiltration.
Deep dives
Ducts in Hot Attics
Having ducts in hot attics is a common yet ineffective practice among Texas builders. The extreme heat in attics leads to significant energy loss due to duct leakage, resulting in cooled air escaping into an unconditioned space. This not only raises energy bills but also creates a risk of mold growth due to condensation on cold surfaces. To improve this situation, builders should consider bringing ducts into conditioned spaces, utilizing methods like closed cell foam insulation, which enhances efficiency in both heating and cooling.
The Issue with Cardboard Sheathing
The use of cardboard sheathing in construction is a significant concern, as it fails to effectively seal against water and air, posing risks to structural integrity. This fragile material can easily be damaged, leading to unnecessary openings that allow water intrusion and air leakage. Although it meets code requirements, builders are encouraged to opt for more reliable materials such as plywood or OSB that provide better performance and durability. Shifting away from cardboard sheathing is essential for improving the overall quality and longevity of homes.
Misconceptions About Air Tightness
The belief that houses need to breathe is a persistent misconception among Texas builders, which can jeopardize indoor air quality. In reality, homes should be built to be as airtight as possible to control air leaks that can introduce humidity and lead to mold growth. Proper air sealing, complemented by mechanical ventilation systems like ERVs or dehumidifiers, is necessary to manage indoor air quality effectively. Emphasizing air tightness is crucial to the health and well-being of residents while maintaining the structural integrity of the building.
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Common Building Mistakes: Ductwork in Texas Attics
This week, Matt goes solo to highlight five common construction mistakes made by Texas builders and offers practical solutions to improve building quality.
Ductwork in Hot Attics Placing ducts in unconditioned attics leads to inefficiency, mold growth, and energy loss. Builders should relocate ducts into conditioned spaces using techniques like closed-cell foam insulation or innovative Rheia duct systems.
Cardboard Sheathing Flimsy, paper-based sheathing lacks durability and fails to resist air and water infiltration. Durable materials like plywood, OSB, or Huber ZIP-System sheathing offer superior performance and longevity.
"Houses Need to Breathe" Myth Air leaks degrade indoor air quality and cause microbial growth. Builders should create airtight homes with proper ventilation systems, such as ERVs or HRVs, and incorporate dehumidifiers for moisture control.
Poor Stucco Installation Improper stucco systems fail when exposed to irrigation. Using resilient materials and ensuring proper drainage can prevent structural degradation and water damage.
Steel Windows and Doors Non-thermally broken steel frames cause condensation, leading to damage. Thermally broken frames, wood-clad windows, or triple-glazed options are better choices for Texas’s climate.
Matt emphasizes sustainable building practices and learning from past mistakes to Know Better. Build Better.™ He encourages builders to adopt modern techniques to improve energy efficiency, durability, and customer satisfaction.