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Unbuild It | Episode 159: 3Qs: Climate Zone 7 T&G Ceiling, Aging in Place Design, and Alternative PreFab Foundations
One listener asks about ZIP sheathing versus Smart Vapor Retarder for cold climate tongue-and-groove ceiling in terms of airtightness and moisture control (with a vented attic). Another listener starts with a specific question regarding zero-threshold exterior doors that leads into a pretty thorough discussion of Universal Design. This listener questions-driven episode wraps up with a great discussion of wood-based alternatives to concrete foundations/basements with some pressure on Steve and Jake to state if they would use any of these systems in future projects. The kicker though was the listener identifying Extreme Panel Technologies below-grade SIP systems using FDN (cca-treated) plywood and none of the boys knew anything about this system. Don't go home without checking the slew of great resources below! Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Diamond Kote. Learn more at: https://diamondkotesiding.com/
PETE'S RESOURCES:
1. T&G ceiling CZ7 vented attic with roof trusses
- SBA video using ZIP ceiling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STIRqSgOOSw
- SBA video using SVR ceiling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ko1P_8hQxbQ
1. aging in place design but what about exterior doors
- FOREVER HOME Series on Build Show - https://buildshownetwork.com/bsn-series/Forever-Home (Episode 4 - Floor Framing)
- European exterior hinged doors have a zero floor clearance option - e.g. https://www.bauwerksolutions.com/blog/european-windows-doors-product-guide
- Automatic drop down door sill seals (example): https://dach.assaabloy.com/ch/en/product-catalogue/planet-t611079-for-exterior-doors
- The UD Project: https://universaldesign.org/specifications
- Mississipi State Unversity Barrier-Free Environments Guides - https://guides.library.msstate.edu/c.php?g=1195684&p=8765499
1. Prefab foundations
- Extreme Panel Technologies Foundations & Basements - https://extremepanel.com/foundations-basements/
- Standard Specification and Certification for CCA Preservative Treated Lumber and Plywood - https://www.fp-supply.com/cmss_files/imagelibrary/Plywood/Treated%20Plywood%20Spec%20Sheet.pdf
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Episodes
Unbuild It | Episode 164: Thermal Control Layers Explained
Episode 164
In the final episode of the Back to Basics series, Steve, Jake, and Pete break down the thermal control layer, from insulation and R-values to thermal bridging and continuity. Learn why effective thermal performance depends on all four building control layers—water, air, vapor, and thermal—working together.
Unbuild It | Episode 162: Back to Basics: Air Control Layers Explained
Episode 162
The boys break down key building science principles for creating effective control layers, with a special focus on airtightness. From maintaining continuity and simplifying installation to blower door testing and understanding what drives air leaks, this episode offers practical guidance for building tighter, better-performing homes.
Unbuild It | Episode 158: The Doctor is In - Retired building scientist and pulmonary physician Nathan Yost
Episode 158
Steve and Pete welcome Nathan Yost to discuss Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), exploring how building materials, indoor environments, and evolving medical understanding can impact those living with sensitivities. Nathan shares insights from years of working with clients, while Steve recounts recent projects where MCS dramatically influenced design decisions, specifications, and material choices—including one project in a surprising "dead zone."
