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Unbuild It | Episode 161: Back to Basics Part 1 - The Water Control Layer
This is the first of a 4-part series focusing on the essential elements of water management. As Steve says, water is the number one killer of buildings. No sense in working on the other 3 layers--air, vapor, and thermal--without fully handling liquid water. The boys start with the roof — since this part of the building gets the most water. And no surprise that managing water gets a lot easier starting with design to move water off the building. Patterns of wetting on buildings--both new and historic--reveal the basics of water movement that leads to management. And let’s not forget that water moves up nearly as well as it moves down: capillarity.
PETE'S RESOURCES:
Joe Lstiburek's "Moisture Control for Buildings:"
"Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction, and Maintenance:"
"Water in Buildings: An Architect's Guide to Moisture and Mold:"
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Episodes
Unbuild It | Episode 159: 3Qs: Climate Zone 7 T&G Ceiling, Aging in Place Design, and Alternative PreFab Foundations
Episode 159
This Q&A episode tackles listener questions on ZIP sheathing vs. Smart Vapor Retarder for cold-climate ceilings, zero-threshold exterior doors and Universal Design, and innovative wood-based alternatives to concrete foundations. The discussion wraps up with a look at below-grade SIP foundation systems and plenty of valuable resources for deeper exploration.
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!