Passive House Project: Insulation

Keith Sawlor, July 11, 2017 | Posted in Build; Tagged Passive House , Project Updates

Our Passive House Project has been insulated!

We have Roxul insulation on 1 level and R-24 fiberglass on the next level, all insulated on the inside of the air/vapor barrier, between the 2x6 wall framing.

(wall cavity before insulation)

(wall cavity filled with insulation)

We also have 9 ½” of blown in cellulose that fills the outside wall section of the home. With an R-value of +/- R-60 and air seal of under .6ach, this home will be very comfortable and efficient!

It is important when installing blown in cellulose that its density is calculated correctly. The R-value is related to the density of its blown in products, so correct insulation is critical. The R-value/density can be confirmed by taking a core sample of its products and then weighing it. This simple quality control check will ensure our homeowners will enjoy years of comfort in their super energy efficient home.

(measuring the density of blown in cellulose)

A passive house requires multiple blower door air tests to ensure the air tightness is maintained throughout the entire construction process. Our first air test result was .59 ACH @ 50 pascal**, which is within the passive house required air tightness.

After insulating the house (but prior to drywall installation) our second blower door test was conducted, with a result of .37 @ 50 pascal. This is an incredible result that will significantly improve the energy performance (and comfort) of this home!

Congratulations to all of our team that help achieve these results!

**Pascal (Pa): a unit of measure used to determine the pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the building envelope.

Keith Sawlor

Keith Sawlor is the second generation Owner of Sawlor Built Homes. With more than 35 years experience building custom homes in Nova Scotia, Keith has built a team that mirrors his professional knowledge and values.

Keith is a Certified Residential Builder who is also certified with many leading industry organizations. He is a Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) Certified Builder, a Net Zero Energy (NZE) Certified Builder, a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) R-2000 Certified Builder, and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

Keith is a Past Board Member of the Atlantic Home Warranty Program as well as the Canadian Home Builders' Association Nova Scotia. He is involved in many other industry programs and associations, such as the Canadian Home Builders’ Association National and Better Business Bureau.