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UNDERSTANDING
BUILDING SCIENCE
Building science is the study of how each control layer - water, air, vapor, and thermal - move through a building and how those forces interact with materials, systems, and occupants. It provides the foundation for creating structures that are durable, energy-efficient, and comfortable. By understanding how homes actually function as systems, we can design and build spaces that are safer, healthier, longer-lasting, and more efficient. We don't just build to code - we build for both performance and health.
DISCOVER
CORE PRINCIPLES OF BUILDING SCIENCE
A home is more than walls and a roof - it's a system where every part interacts. The principles of building science provide a framework for designing homes that balance efficiency, comfort, and resilience. They guide every decision from materials to mechanical systems to ensure optimal performance.
Moisture Management Uncontrolled moisture is the #1 threat to a building's health. From rainwater to condensation, we plan drainage, air barriers, and other control layers to prevent mold, rot, and costly damage. "If it won't dry, it will die."
Airflow & Air Sealing Managing how air moves through your home is essential for energy efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality. Tightly constructed building envelopes with strategic ventilation keeps conditioned air in and pollutants out
Thermal Performance Proper insulation and thoughtful detailing reduce unnecessary heat loss or gain. The result is even temperatures, lower energy bills, and a more comfortable home year-round
Indoor Air Quality By carefully managing ventilation, moisture, and pollutants, building science creates an environment where the air is clean, safe, and supportive of health
Durability & Longevity By understanding how materials and systems interact, building science results in homes that are more durable, resilient, and built to last
LEARN ABOUT
WHY BUILDING SCIENCE MATTERS
A building that ignores building science principles may still look good on the outside - but can quietly fail from the inside. Building science isn't about trends or aesthetics - it's about making sure your home performs well under real-world conditions. Think of building science as the cure for the following common issues - these aren't just annoyances, they're symptoms of a system that isn't working as it should.
Mold Growth Ignoring building science can allow moisture to accumulate within wall cavities, underneath flooring, and other assemblies that cause suitable conditions for mold growth
Structural Damage Inadequate flashing details, poor craftmanship, and faulty materials can allow for water intrusion that results in structural damage
High Power Bills Insufficient insulation, air leakage, and improperly sized mechanical systems can contribute to high heating and cooling demands and an inefficient home
Drafty Rooms & Uneven Temperatures Air leakage and poorly balanced & designed mechanical systems create uncomfortable living conditions
Persistent Condensation Poor ventilation, inadequate insulation, and uncontrolled moisture can cause warm, humid air to condense on cold surfaces, leading to persistent condensation and potential for mold growth
Elevated Humidity Air leakage, oversized mechanical systems, and poor ventilation can trap moisture inside the home. This excess humidity can lead to discomfort, mold growth, and potentially damage to building materials
Musty Odors Trapped moisture, inadequate ventilation, mold growth, and chemical off-gassing can all contribute to persistent odors throughout the home
Premature Aging of Materials & Finishes Homes that aren't designed with building science in mind can show signs of age sooner - wood can warp, paint can peel, and finishes can fade faster than expected
DISCOVER
HOW WE USE BUILDING SCIENCE
Our process relies on real data, practical experience, and collaboration to guide every project. Whether you're building new or upgrading your current space, these practices can help create homes that perform - not just ones that pass inspection.
Envelope-first design to manage each control layer
Diagnostic tools like blower door testing and leak testing to reduce building defects
Smart mechanical system design & calculations to ensure balanced airflow, thermal comfort, and superior indoor air quality
Thoughtful materials selection that supports both performance and health
Collaboration with architects, engineers, and other trades to align the entire system
LET'S BUILD SMARTER
A HEALTHY HOME STARTS WITH BUILDING SCIENCE
A healthy home goes beyond simply being toxin-free - it's meticulously designed for optimal performance and to ensure longevity of the structure by eliminating building defects. When combined with building biology and wellness design, building science creates homes that support the well-being of the people who live in it. We believe human health starts with the way we build and that building science is the foundation for a healthy home. We don't just build structures - we create environments that support how you live, breathe, and feel in your space.
Contact us to learn more about how building science can transform your home.