Passive House Construction with Fiberglass and Mineral Wool (N152)

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This guide provides an overview of passive house construction, compares net zero, code-built, and passive house construction, and presents a case study of one Colorado architect who designed and built his own home to the passive house standard using fiberglass and mineral wool insulation.

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25 Checkpoints for Inspecting Insulation Jobs (BI497)

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This laminated, pocket-sized card helps inspectors, builders and contractors easily determine if insulation is properly installed.

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A “How to Install Batt Insulation” Videos Series

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Below are links to a three part video series showing the proper installation methods of fiberglass and rock wool batt insulation to meet RESNET Grade I requirements.

Helps to answer the question “How do I install batt insulation?

Brian Coble, Director of High Performance Homes for Advanced Energy walks viewers through an ENERGY STAR Home and points out every area of a home that must be insulated to meet RESNET Grade 1 Insulation Installation Requirements. Meeting specific energy efficiency criteria with fiberglass, rock wool and slag wool batt insulation can be easily achieved if the insulation and air sealing package is installed with professionalism and care. Additional energy efficiency measures that need to be performed prior to installing home insulation is also addressed.

A Performance Comparison of Today’s Environmental Home Builder & Renovation Projects – Canadian Market (NACA101)

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This piece compares the most common insulation selection criteria for fiberglass insulation, cellulose insulation, mineral wool insulation, cotton insulation and spray foam insulation for the Canadian home building market. Comparison data includes information on thermal performance, fire safety moisture absorptionon, settling, recycled content, product testing and more.

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Air Infiltration Myths and Realities (BI498)

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This series of brief Fact Sheets explores the myths and realities of air infiltration in buildings, providing builders, contractors, inspectors and others with facts about the sources and solutions to air infiltration.

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An Illinois “Passivhaus” (RP064)

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Read this article from Energy Design Update about how one builder used the European Passivhaus standards to design and build a super insulated house in Illinois.

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Attic Insulation Performance: Full Scale Tests of Conventional Insulation and Radiant Barriers (Executive Summary) (RP051)

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This report documents the tests sponsored by the Mineral Insulation Manufacturers Association on methods for reducing summer and, to a limited extent, winter heat transfer through attics.

The tests, conducted in Ocala, FL during 1987-1988, investigated the comparative performance of radiant barriers and conventional fiberglass insulation in reducing the ceiling heat flows that result in loads on the air conditioning and heating systems.

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Building Design & Construction White Paper (NAIMA039)

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In this white paper, the editors of Building Design & Construction offer a brief history of green building; present the results of a specially commissioned survey of our readers; and analyze the chief trends, issues, and published research, based on interviews with dozens of experts and participants in green building.

The White Paper concludes with an “Action Plan,” a set of recommendations designed to encourage further dialogue about sustainable development.

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Building Design & Construction White Paper: Progress Report on Sustainability (NAIMA041)

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This paper follows up on the recommendations made in the 2003 white paper by the same group.

Included is a progress report on the 2003 action plan and new recommendations for advancing green building.

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Building Insulation: A Performance Comparison (BI502)

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Today’s home builder is striving to construct a home that will minimize the impact on the environment and provide comfort, convenience and cost savings for the home owner.

This piece compares the most common insulation selection criteria for fiberglass insulation, cellulose insulation, rock and slag wool insulation, cotton insulation and spray foam insulation. Comparison data includes information on thermal performance, fire safety, moisture absorption, settling, recycled content, product testing and more.

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Facts #11: Facts About Ventilation and Moisture Control (BI458)

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Facts About Ventilation and Moisture Control – Includes information on attic ventilation, crawl space ventilation and vapor retarders.

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Facts #14 Wet-Spray Cellulose Insulation Systems (BI460)

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Discusses concerns about wet-spray cellulose and its effectiveness, including thermal performance, moisture control, air infiltration and corrosiveness.

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Facts #15: Achieving Expected Thermal Performance (BI461)

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Application of batts in high performance horizontal ceilings.

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Facts #21: High-Performance Batts for Walls and Cathedral Ceilings Offer Energy and Money Saving Construction Alternatives (BI467)

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This Fact Sheet looks at high-performance fiberglass batts, which can significantly improve the energy efficiency of walls and cathedral ceilings and achieve higher R-values without necessarily adding to the cost of building a home.

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Facts #24: The Facts About Insulation And Air Infiltration (BI480)

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Discusses the results of several studies which support the conclusion that insulation plays a very insignificant role in controlling air infiltration.

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Facts #30: Insulation and Fire Safety (BI472)

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Compares the fire safety of fiberglass and cellulose insulations.

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Facts #70 – Fiberglass Building Insulation Products: The Facts About Mold Growth (BI483)

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Discusses the facts about fiberglass building insulation products and mold. Provides recommendations on remediating wet fiberglass insulation, and dispels myth about so-called mold-resistant products.

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Facts #79: DOE Releases New R-Value Recommendations (BI491)

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This is a Fact Sheet with suggestions of where to insulate your home and the DOE R-value recommendation to obtain maximum thermal efficiency and comfort.

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Facts #80: Fiberglass and Rock Wool and Slag Wool Loose-Fill Insulation for Weatherization Assistance Programs (NAIMA043)

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Fiberglass, rock wool and slag wool insulation qualify for use in the Weatherization Assistance Program. While there are several types of insulations typically used for the weatherization market, there are many advantages to loose-fill fiberglass or rock wool and slag wool insulation.

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Facts #83: Spray Foam Insulation Industry and Federal Agencies Agree On Product Stewardship Measures (N066)

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This Fact Sheet discusses issues surrounding the safe use of spray foam insulation.

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Facts #8: ASTM Standard Specifications for Mineral Fiber Blanket, Loose-fill and Spray-Applied Insulation (BI455)

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Reviews ASTM Standard Specifications and performance requirements for mineral fiber blanket, loose-fill, and spray-applied insulation materials.

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Facts #9: Facts About Fiberglass Loose-Fill Insulation (BI456)

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Reviews performance, material, installation, inspection and R-value information with regard to fiberglass loose-fill insulation.

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Fascinating Facts About Fiberglass, Rock Wool & Slag Wool Insulation (N071)

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Fiberglass, rock wool, and slag wool insulations are the most versatile insulating products in the world. Their fibrous composition provides unique insulating properties that make them the insulation products of choice for a wide range of applications. NAIMA’s Fascinating Facts discusses just  how much these insulation products contribute to our environment.

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Fiberglass & Mineral Wool Insulation – Engineered to Outperform (N068)

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Fiberglass and mineral wool insulation are installed in 90% of homes in North America. This fact-filled information piece provides information on the proven performance, installation productivity, versatility, proven manufacturing and  installation safety,  and the lifecycle sustainability of fiberglass and mineral wool insulation for homes. (N068)

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Fiberglass HVAC Insulation – Know the Facts (12 Minute Presentation)

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12 minute audio visual presentation on fiberglass insulation products designed for the HVAC system for residential and commercial buildings.

The presentation focuses on:

  • The Benefits of Insulated AirDucts
  • Health & Safety Safety
  • Mold Moisture & Cleanability
  • Performance & Product Testing
  • Codes  & Standards

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Fiberglass Insulation: A Guide to Better Indoor Air Quality (N138)

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This guide details why fiberglass insulation is an excellent choice for home insulation when considering indoor air quality.

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Fiberglass, Rock & Slag Wool Insulation’s Potential Contribution to Achieving NAHB National Green Building Standard Rating System Certification (NAIMA56)

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This summary provides an overview of fiberglass, rock & slag wool insulations potential contributions to achieving Green Building certification in terms of resource efficiency, life cycle assessment, energy efficiency, insulation and air sealing, duct work and innovative practices.

Applications include flberglass batts, blown in, rock and slag wool and fiberglass air duct insulation.

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Fibrous Glass Residential Duct Construction Standards (Ductboard / Duct Board)- Third Edition (AH119)

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Based on the 144-page Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Manual, this 102-page version focuses on fabrication and installation of fiberglass duct board systems in residential situations (single and multi-family).

Illustrates and describes the two basic types of residential duct systems: extended plenum and radial. Depicts methods of conducting straight duct sections and simple fittings, approved closure systems. Includes job inspection checklist. Third Edition, 2002

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Grantees Guide to Insulation Programs and Partnerships – ARRA

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Insulation is an important common element in the ARRA’s effort to improve energy efficiency in America’s homes, businesses, institutions, and public buildings. The Grantees Guide to Insulation Programs and Partnerships provides ARRA grantees information on the program and partnership approaches they can launch and manage directly, or augment in partnership with other program sponsors.

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Green and Competitive – The Energy, Environmental, and Economic Benefits of Fiberglass and Mineral Wool Insulation Products (GREEN)

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This study by Energy Conservation Management, Inc., Alliance to Save Energy, and Barakat & Chamberlin, Inc. begins by assessing the amount of energy used in the manufacture of these insulation products, and then determines the energy that is saved through their application in residential and commercial buildings and other end uses.

Also examined is the individual sector with regard to energy use and energy saved annually, as well as the aggregate carbon dioxide emissions avoided through the use of insulation products in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors.

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How to Install Insulation: Video Series from California Energy Commission

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NAIMA has worked with the California Energy Commission to produce the following “How To” videos for insulating ceilings and walls with fiberglass insulation.

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How Your Ductwork Can Save Energy Dollars And Reduce Pollution (AH108)

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Explains the energy saving benefits of fiberglass ducts in homes.

Includes fuel saving tips for heating and air conditioning systems.

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Independent Reviews Discredit Colorado Study (RAC1768)

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Independent reviews of a 1990 study from the University of Colorado at Denver (“Colorado Study”) have found the study flawed in its conclusions of superior performance for cellulose insulation.

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Insulation Facts #32: A Guide To Selecting Fiberglass Insulation Products For New Home Construction And Remodeling (BI473)

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This fact sheet guides the reader in selecting fiberglass insulation products for home construction and remodeling.

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Insulation Facts #6: Labeling and Advertising of Home Insulation (BI453)

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Labeling and Advertising of Home Insulation – Assists wholesalers, distributors, retail dealers and insulation contractors in their awareness and understanding of the FTC’s rule.

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Integrating Risk Assessment and Life Cycle Assessment: A Case Study of Insulation (RP060)

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Increasing residential insulation can decrease energy consumption and provide public health benefits, given changes in emissions from fuel combustion.

In this article, researchers estimate the net public health impacts of increasing residential insulation for new housing from current practice to the latest International Energy Conservation Code (IECC 2000).

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Key Checkpoints for Inspecting Insulation Jobs (NCA102)

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This easy-to-laminate, pocket-sized card helps Canadian inspectors, builders and contractors easily determine if insulation is properly installed in walls, ceilings and floors and provides guidance on air sealing, insulating around combustible sources and more.

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LEED for Homes Rating System (N065)

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Credit Opportunities for Fiberglass, Rock and Slag Wool Insulation Products.

This reference guide alerts the building team to potential LEED credits where fiberglass, rock and slag wool insulation may be able to contribute in qualifying for specific LEED for Homes Rating System points and credits as well as prerequisites. The guide provides descriptions to help building team members understand relevance to points and credits.

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Let’s Set the Record Straight (BI500)

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This publication addresses independent research studies that demonstrate that the most effective thermal envelope system requires insulation and also a caulk, foam, taped building wrap,  foam sheathing and/or gasket material to stop air movement through and around the external walls.

Provides details on the following issues:

  • Insulation, of any type, is no substitute for proper sealing and prevention of air infiltration.
  • “Skimming” the wall cavity with spray applied insulation is not enough to stop all air infiltration
  • Maximizing home insulation and minimizing air infiltration are two separate issues.
  • Spray foam insulation is not a one step solution to air leakage.
  • R-value is not a gauge for air infiltration.

This publication addresses independent research studies that demonstrate that the most effective thermal envelope system requires insulation and also a caulk, foam, taped building wrap,  foam sheathing and/or gasket material to stop air movement through and around the external walls.

Provides details on the following issues:

  • Insulation, of any type, is no substitute for proper sealing and prevention ofair infiltration.
  • “Skimming” the wallcavity with spray applied insulation is not enough to stop all air infiltration
  • Maximizing home insulation and minimizing air infiltration are two separate issues.
  • Spray foam insulation is not a one step solution to air leakage.
  • R-value is not a gauge for air infiltration.

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NAIMA Industry Fact Sheet

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Industry fact sheet that addresses the economic contributions and policy priorities of the fiberglass and mineral wool industry.

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Noise Control: Sound Advice for Today’s Families (BI476)

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The benefits of insulation when used for acoustic application and design consideration for homeowners concerned with noise in their homes.

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Pictorial Guide on Installing Batt Insulation — Installation Tech Tips

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Homes insulated with fiberglass or rock wool batt insulation can meet the RESNET Grade 1 installation requirements by  fitting and filling all cavities, and carefully insulating all around obstacles such as electrical boxes, recessed lighting, wires and cables, piping, exhaust fans and duct connectors. This pictorial guide shows insulating tips on cutting and fitting insulation batts into places like under stairways, around fireplaces, tubs and showers, and band joists and how to check for compression, gaps, voids or misalignments and more.

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Pictorial Guide on Installing Batt Insulation — The Critical Details

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Insulating homes to the latest energy codes requires care and attention to detail to maximize efficiency and year round comfort.  See how professionals insulate attic hatches, ceilings with and without attics, roof decks, around ventilation baffles and chutes, floors and knee walls with fiberglass and rock wool batt insulation.

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Questions and Answers About Home Insulation (BI409)

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An easy-to-use booklet which provides basic information on insulation and tips to help save on heating and cooling bills.

Excellent guide for homeowners.

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Recomendaciones Para Instalacion en Construcciones Residenciales y Otras de Entramado Liviano (Aislamiento de Fibra de Vidrio de Relleno Suelto) (BI403SP)

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Includes information on ceiling installation guidelines, sidewall installation guidelines and material specifications.

This booklet was reviewed by the Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA).

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Recomendaciones Para Instalacion en Construcciones Residenciales y Otras de Entramado Liviano (Aislamiento de Fibra de Vidrio para Edificios) (BI402SP)

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Includes information on fiberglass batt insulation, where it is installed, labeling procedures, vapor retarders, and recommended clothing and equipment.

This booklet was reviewed by the Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA).

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Recommendations for Installing Insulation in Residential and Other Light-Frame Construction (Fiberglass Home Insulation) (BI402)

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Includes information on fiberglass, rock wool and slag wool batt insulation, where it is installed, labeling procedures, vapor retarders, and recommended clothing and equipment.

This booklet was reviewed by the Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA).

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Recommendations for Installing Insulation in Residential and Other Light-Frame Construction (Fiberglass Loose-Fill Insulation) (BI403)

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Includes information on installing insulation including ceiling installation guidelines, sidewall installation guidelines and material specifications.

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The Truth About Air Infiltration (BI499)

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This brochure breaks down the myth that air infiltration and thermal protection are the same and can be treated with one solution.

Because a home should be thought of as a combination of integrated systems, optimal thermal protection for a home comes with proper air sealing and insulation.

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Unlocking the Full Value of Green Homes: Why Green Multiple Listing Services are a Key to Residential Energy Efficiency

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The National Home Performance Council released this study in partnership with the Association of Energy & Environmental Real Estate Professionals (AEEREP) that encourages states and stakeholders to revise Multiple Listing Services (MLS) to include standardized data on clean energy criteria on “for-sale” homes and properties.

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