CONTINUOUS INSULATION IS BECOMING CODE ACROSS THE COUNTRY...

BUILD FOR LONG-TERM DURABILITY

& PERFORMANCE

There are many ways to meet the code requirements for continuous insulation, but not all of them are created equal. Identifying high-risk assemblies and implementing the proper mitigation strategies is crucial to long-term durability, moisture resistance, preventing leaks, mold growth, and unexpected callbacks. Whether you're a contractor, builder, architect, or design professional, understanding how to integrate continuous insulation in your projects will reduce your risk of future failures. Safeguard your projects and reputation!

Frequently Asked Questions

"Is this course only for builders and contractors?"

No, this course was designed for builders, contractors, as well as design professionals, such as architects, draftsmen, and consultants. These different project roles are highly dependent on one another, and it is critical that everyone is on the same page in terms of what is necessary to accomplish different continuous insulation strategies and construction details successfully.

"I'm an owner builder, should I take this course?"

If you do not have prior experience in the construction industry or if this is your first time taking on a project, there will be a significant learning curve, especially in terms of the vocabulary we use and the ability to read and comprehend the detail drawings we discuss in the course. We would recommend that you do not start with this course. If you have prior construction experience or knowledge and you are comfortable with reading architectural plans and construction drawings, you shouldn't have any problems with this course.

"Continuous insulation isn't required in my state yet. Why should I take this course?"

While it might not be required yet, at some point, you will likely encounter it, or have previously encountered it in some form. Continuous insulation in the form of rigid insulation (while not necessarily required in some states) is often necessary for condensation control and moisture safety in many assemblies. Understanding how to safely and successfully implement continuous rigid insulation in various types of wall and roof assemblies will reduce your risk of future moisture problems and code violations. One common mistake that we see on the consulting side of our business is when the 'cut and cobble' method has been used to insulate the cavities of a roof or wall assembly, but ends up trapping moisture in the cavity space. This course was designed not just to teach you about different continuous insulation strategies, but also how to implement them SUCCESSFULLY.

"Does the course cover how to integrate window openings with exterior continuous insulation?"

Yes, this is actually a common question that we get from both design professionals and contractors. We not only discuss how to implement continuous exterior rigid insulation at window openings, but also at all major building transitions.

"Is this course for northern climates?"

No, this course discusses the requirements for ALL IECC climate zones and how to determine what is necessary for your specific project based on the IRC/IBC, indoor operating conditions, and research reports that modern-day codes are based on.

"Does this course teach how to integrate exterior continuous insulation with cladding materials other than siding?"

Yes! In this course, you will learn how to integrate assemblies with standard siding, along with wood siding, stucco, masonry veneers, and thin 'adhered' veneers with exterior rigid insulation, and many of the design considerations that need to be taken into account.

"Does this course cover double walls as a form of continuous insulation?"

Yes, we have a whole module about alternative strategies to achieving continuous insulation, including a lesson on double stud wall assemblies, staggered stud, insulated precast concrete, SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels), insulated sheathing products like ZIP-R, and more!

"Will the course be updated if there is new information or code requirements?"

Yep, we want to provide the latest and greatest information to you, and if new information presents itself, or if people request that we cover a specific topic that is not in the course, we will provide additional guidance, resources, or lessons.