Readiness check

Is your building envelope actually keeping energy and water out?

A building envelope is only as good as its weakest layer, and the failures are expensive and hidden: air leaks waste more energy than thin insulation, and a wrong-side vapor barrier rots the wall from inside. Answer for how the envelope was actually built and verified, not the design intent. The score stays on your device; enter an email only if you want the envelope readiness checklist sent over.

1. Was the building air-sealed (not just insulated), with the leaks at the top and bottom addressed?Yes, air sealing was a planned, executed scopeSome sealing, not systematicNo, we relied on insulation alone

2. Is there a continuous air barrier (the holes and transitions actually tied together)?Yes, a defined, continuous air barrier with detailed transitionsAn air barrier material, but gaps at transitionsNo defined air barrier

3. Does the insulation meet the code R-value for the climate zone, installed without gaps or compression?Yes, code R-value, quality install verifiedRight amount, install quality unknownBelow code or poorly installed

4. Is the vapor control correct for your climate (right side, or none) so the assembly can dry?Yes, climate-correct vapor strategy that lets it dryNot sure it is right for the climateWrong side or double vapor barrier

5. Is thermal bridging addressed (continuous exterior insulation where it matters)?Yes, continuous insulation breaks the bridgingCavity insulation onlyNot considered

6. Are the roof, wall, window, and foundation air/water barriers tied together (no breaks at the joints)?Yes, the barriers are continuous across assembliesEach assembly is fine, the junctions are weakNo coordination at the transitions

7. Was the envelope verified (blower-door test, infrared, or commissioning), not just assumed?Yes, tested and verifiedSpot checks onlyNo verification

8. If the building is tight, is there mechanical ventilation to keep the air healthy?Yes, build tight and ventilate right (mechanical ventilation)Tight, ventilation is marginalSealed up with no plan for fresh air