Acoustic Solutions for Contractors: Expert Tips from Owens Corning

In this episode, IDI’s Ken Allison and Owens Corning’s Mark Keenan discuss various aspects of soundproofing and acoustic insulation. Marc, who has been with Owens Corning for 24 years, shares his expertise in sound insulation.

They cover the basics of sound transmission, the importance of resilient channels, and the differences in performance between fiberglass, mineral wool, and cellulose insulation. Keenan emphasizes the need for proper installation and the significance of addressing structural breaks to achieve effective soundproofing.

Additionally, they discuss specific scenarios, such as soundproofing for home theaters and music studios, and the challenges of air leakage in wall assemblies. Marc provides insights into the most common soundproofing projects and the best practices for setting realistic expectations for clients.

In this episode:

• The role of resilient channels in soundproofing

• Comparing fiberglass, mineral wool, and cellulose insulation for acoustic performance

• Addressing air leakage to improve soundproofing

• Practical advice for soundproofing basements and home theaters

• Setting realistic expectations for soundproofing projects

Tune in to gain valuable knowledge on sound insulation techniques and how to enhance your acoustic projects effectively.

Optimizing Building Efficiency with The Passive House Network and Ken Levenson

In the latest episode of the R-Value podcast, IDI’s Ken Allison welcomes special guest Ken Levenson, the executive director of the Passive House Network. The discussion centers on the concept of “Passive House” and its impact on building sustainability and efficiency. Levenson, with his deep experience as an architect and advocate for energy-efficient building, shares insights into how the Passive House standard dramatically reduces energy consumption while enhancing comfort and resilience in building structures.

The episode explores the fundamental principles of Passive House, including the importance of a well-insulated and airtight building envelope that optimizes the structure’s thermal performance. Levenson explains how such buildings manage to maintain comfortable indoor environments with minimal energy use, emphasizing the potential for substantial energy savings and enhanced indoor air quality. The conversation also reveals the practical aspects of adopting Passive House standards in new constructions and renovations, discussing the challenges and opportunities that builders and architects might face.

In this episode…

• Fundamentals of Passive House design and its advantages over conventional building practices.
• The role of insulation and airtightness in achieving energy efficiency.
• Comparisons between Passive House and other energy standards like Net Zero.
• The impact of building design on health and environmental sustainability.
• Economic benefits and incentives associated with energy-efficient building practices.

Avoid These MAJOR Pitfalls On Spray Foam Projects with Henri Fennell

This episode of the R-Value Podcast features an insightful conversation with industry veteran Henri Fennell about common issues that can arise with spray foam installations. Fennell shares his extensive experience analyzing spray foam problems and the most frequent causes he encounters, such as improper material handling and processing.

He emphasizes the critical importance of precisely following manufacturer guidelines, especially when it comes to material preconditioning and temperature control. Fennell also provides valuable advice on how to properly inspect spray foam projects, troubleshoot issues, and implement effective remediation strategies when necessary. He shares real-world examples that highlight how improper application techniques or conditions can lead to problems like shrinkage, odors, and indoor air quality concerns. This episode is a must-listen for spray foam installers looking to improve their practices and avoid costly callbacks.

In this episode:

2:37 – The 2 most common problems that result in call backs

6:24 – How to properly do a test shot

8:17 – How much has material handling been a factor in foam that isn’t properly processed?

16:30 – Testing for shrinkage issues

26:00 – Henri’s best practices to avoid job site recalls

34:00 – Dealing with spray foam odor issues

45:00 – The importance of purchasing reliable equipment brands