Henri C. Fennell, CSI/CDT
This course addresses the needs and methods for installing an effective thermal envelope in a basement or crawl space. It also includes an overview of the building envelope science, water management, and indoor air quality implications related to below-grade energy performance upgrades.
This course introduces the AVID System (air, vapor, insulation, and drainage) as a practical strategy for improving energy performance without risking frost damage. Many variations of this approach have been used in hundreds of projects including commercial, historic landmark buildings, and residences.
Case studies are included to demonstrate various field applications of the system.
Learning Objectives:
Participants will be able to evaluate the existing conditions and determine if the building envelope should be located at the underside of the floor or enclose the basement or crawl space so that the space is inside.
Participants will be able to solve and remediate water ingress in their basement and crawlspace projects.
Participants will be able to employ the AVID (Air, Vapor, Insulation, and Drainage) System in their projects.
Participants will be able to integrate a radon mitigation system into their plan for weatherizing their basement and crawl space projects.
Participants will be able to identify the building science and environmental issues related to these below-grade applications.
Participants will be able to set performance standards for how air tight their enclosures will be.
Participants will be able to guarantee that the enclosure they create will be water, vapor, and air tight.
Participants will be able to carry out the installation while maintaining installer and occupant safety.
Participants will be able to test and report the performance of their basement and crawlspace projects.
Participants will be able to utilize the appropriate material technology and application method for their basement and crawlspace projects.
Participants will be able to detail and specify the AVID System and its components for their basement and crawlspace projects.
Participants will be able to plan basement and crawlspace installations for specific site conditions.
Participants will be able to predict and avoid typical causes of failures in their basement and crawlspace projects.
Participants will be able to calculate the total cost of materials for their basement and crawlspace projects.
Participants will be able to assess the impact of air sealing with respect to CAZ safety.
Participants will be able to repair existing basements and crawlspace installations.
Participants will be able to utilize the most appropriate material technology and application methods, related to energy conservation, water management, and vapor in their basement and crawlspace projects.
Participants will be able to relate their projects to similar applications in real-world case studies which demonstrate specific application methods.
Participants will be able to interpret and meet code requirements for basements and crawlspaces.