History

SUSTAINABLE ENERGY EFFICIENT HOUSING - According to research, prior to the middle 1970's residential cavity wall construction was un-insulated, subsequently allowing airflow in the space between the interior and exterior walls. This manner of construction enabled drying of the wall cavity.

Roofing and wall system materials are continually being improved in order to create better quality, longer lasting products. These improved products are now protecting our newly specified, heavily insulated energy conservation wall construction. However, when these sealed and insulated wall systems get wet, drying is unable to occur without the exchange of air that was inherent in the older construction methods.

THE CULPRIT - Residential home construction products and installation methods have evolved through the years. Engineered trusses, ridge vents, manufactured pipe boot flashings, plumbing fixtures, re-designed thermal windows and doors, building wraps etc., have resolved many of the old recurring problems. Unfortunately flashing components and procedures have not evolved as quickly, and are presently under development in order to properly protect the junctures between the roofing and wall systems.

Flashings must now come of age to achieve the required effective longevity necessary to avoid premature failures.
SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION is not energy efficient if it does not last!

The story continues…