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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 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."
Unbuild It | Episode 156: Building Standards for Building Professionals?
Episode 156
In this episode, we dive into the construction industry’s obsession with standards, certifications, and “best practices” — and question whether they actually lead to better buildings. Through a lively discussion on education, building science, and the need to “chase friction,” we explore what it really takes to improve the way we design and build. Featuring insights, debate, and practical resources for building professionals and clients alike.
Unbuild It | Episode 155: ZIP-R on the roof?
Episode 155
Plenty of folks in our industry have been talking about using Huber's ZIP-R panels on roofs, and certainly, Huber has been working on this as well. But Steve, Jake, and Nick Sabol (lead on Huber's Technical Team) take a deep dive into all the considerations: structural, hygrothermal, and long-term durability. And Pete's leading resource on this topic? Call Steve
Unbuild It | Episode 154: Wall Details That Actually Work (Part II): Wildfire Zone Rainscreens & Innovative Use of ZIP Sheathing
Episode 154
Nick Sabol (Huber Product Engineering Team) is back to work with Steve & Pete on rainscreen details in wildfire zones and Steve's cool perspective: use building materials in ways that work well but don't follow convention. Lots of GREAT resources!