Water-Resistive Barriers

Drawings and details for building a high-performing slab-on-grade foundation, double-stud wall, and truss roof with nontoxic materials

An Oregon design-build firm makes high performance more affordable.

If your goal is extremely low air leakage, choose your materials carefully.

Bubbles in roof membrane may not affect the appearance of the roof, but it could affect the underlayment performance.

Builder Bryan Uhler dives deep into the details of wood and moisture and explains why he uses the Slicker Classic from Benjamin Obdyke on many of his wall assemblies.

If you want to install stucco and not rot your walls, choose one of these products to create a drainage plane and ventilation space between the water-resistive barrier and the stucco.

Watch building scientist Christine Williamson and Brian Pontolilo discuss how wall assemblies work and break down the four control layers.

The hosts respond to a listener's question about choosing the right vapor retarder for a straw-bale home, as well as what makes this construction method so compelling and cheap, and considerations for moisture management.

Builder Ian Schwandt shares tips for laying out, fastening, and taping seams correctly when installing ZIP System roof sheathing.

When building new or re-roofing and re-siding at the same time, think ahead to the next reroof and make step flashing easier to remove and replace.