Ductwork Installation Begins!

Over the past several weeks, a lot of energy went towards getting the ductwork for our energy system ‘just right’ in efficiency. The passive house consultant and HVAC contractor had multiple conversation to specify even the smallest of details. For instance, one specification is to have the ducts lined with foam pads in lieu of the industry standard fiberglass. (FIBERGLASS? In the ducts that supply the air we breath? Not in this house!) With that detail and many others sorted out, the installation finally began today.

Also this week, the carpenters are installing framing for the windows. We’re days away from our window order and have our specifications ready. Since window openings are big holes in our air barrier, the framing and connections between the windows are super important. Any square inch left uncovered will compromise our barrier – allowing “ungoverned’ air flow into and out of the house.

We also anticipate a plumbing inspection this week and expect the solar hot water equipment to be ordered. Our cellar slab pour has been delayed awaiting an inspection because the sewer and storm lines will run below the slab. We initially dug down 12″ inches so that a proper drainage detail can be incorporated into the new slab and a layer of foam can be sprayed below it. As part of our sustainable practices we specify that 20% of Fly ash be incorporated into the concrete mix. Fly ash is a byproduct from the coal industry that has been proven to strengthen concrete when added. It’s essentially coal ash that would otherwise be dumped in landfills.

Stay tuned as we begin to close up walls and conduct blower door tests.