Designs That Work

Cold Climate

Resources for Builders

General Resources

• Builder's Guide to Cold Climates
• EEBA Water Management Guide
• Building America Performance Targets
• International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) Climate Zones
• DOE Climate Zones by County
• Designs that Work
• Building Materials Property Table
• Building Science Glossary

Other Cold House Design Case Studies

• Building America - Prairie Crossing
• Cold Climate Construction Details:
  • Beacon Hill
  • Boston
  • Chicago
  • Denver
  • Minneapolis
  • Vineyard

Site: Drainage, Pest Control, and Landscaping

• Pest Control

Foundation: Moisture Control and Energy Performance

• "Why Sand Layers Should Not Be Placed Under Slabs"
• Radon Resistant Construction Practices (EPA Radon Control Website)
• Borate-Treated Rigid Insulation

Building Enclosure: Moisture Control and Energy Performance

• Design Using Advanced Framing Methods
• Air Sealing Details
• "Insulations, Sheathings, and Vapor Diffusion Retarders"
• Solar Driven Moisture in Wall Assemblies
• Solar Driven Moisture in Roof Assemblies
• Window flashing: EEBA Water Management Guide

Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing

• HVAC System Sizing (ACCA Manual J and Manual D)
• Mechanical Ventilation Integrated with HVAC System Design
• Transfer Grilles
• Indoor Humidity
• Whole House Dehumidification System
• Air Conditioning Best Practices
• High-Energy Efficiency Major Appliances

Commissioning

SNAPSHOT (Short Non-Destructive Approach to Provide Significant House Operation Thresholds)

• Form
• Instructions

Advanced Technologies

• Primer on Photovoltaics