Reuben and Tessa are joined by Patrick Huelman, an Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota, to talk about insulation.

Patrick Huelman shares his extensive background in architecture and building science. He talks about their recent experimental work with the Department of Energy through Pacific Northwest National Laboratories to investigate thermal wall systems by in-situ energy and moisture modeling. Patrick then discusses the controls that a high-performing building enclosure needs: insulation, air control,  water control, and vapor control. He shares that the layers have to be done in the right order and that this is the challenge in existing homes.

Reuben asks about the approaches to retrofitting a house, the common mistakes, and the better way to do it. Tessa asks about recommendations based on the 14 different wall set-ups from the experiment and which is the most cost-effective. Patrick shares his ideas and the results of their study. He mentions that it will take a while until the panel-like wall system is accepted in residential constructions and for the industry to start catching up with this science.

Patrick highlights that getting home inspectors and building science professionals is essential for risk assessment and management.