How I Learned Building Science
Introduction
I've been asked often over the years about how I learned "all this stuff" about building science and HVAC systems, usually by homeowners after I've figured out some complex problem with their home that numerous "pro's" before me could not. I'm not unique in this ability, but there aren't nearly enough people out there who understand this stuff and I hope to help change that!
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The story told is how I went from lowly insulation installer at my parent's small contracting company and utilized the educational resources I had available to grow my knowledge over 20 years to become a leading home energy expert in the Midwest, inspecting and testing thousands of homes and buildings along the way.
Video Summary
1. My Building Science Journey
The story told is how I went from lowly insulation installer at my parent's small contracting company and utilized the educational resources I had available to grow my knowledge over 20 years to become a leading home energy expert in the Midwest, inspecting and testing thousands of homes and buildings along the way.
2. Work History
From working in an insurance restoration business that dealt rebuilding homes damaged by fire, water, smoke, mold, and other natural disasters, to insulation worker and weatherization contractor - my hands-on experience covered a lot of corners of the building science world. I got to see how buildings failed and why, how to dry them out and disinfect them properly, and how to rebuild them the right way.
3. Educational Resources
Throughout my career education has been a key part of my growth and advancement. I provide a list of several organizations and websites that taught me different aspects of building science and the certifications I attained through them, shown below.
4. Mentors & Colleagues Who Helped Me
I couldn't do it alone! Credit is given to some mentors and colleagues who helped guide me along the way, and that list is shared below. Everyone needs mentors and mentees to grow in life. Who are yours?
5. HVAC and Lighting Air Leaks
Air leakage was found around supply duct boots and lighting fixtures in the second floor ceilings. These gaps, though small, can add up to significant air leaks. Sealing the boots to the drywall and caulking gaps around and inside electric junction boxes can improve efficiency.
Mentors & Colleagues Who Helped Me
ππΌ Indiana Community Action Association (INCAA) - Steve Nall and Dan Hartman
ππΌ Building Performance Institute (BPI)
ππΌ Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) @ResnetUs
ππΌ Energy Efficient Homes Midwest - Mark Jansen
ππΌ National Comfort Institute (NCI) - David Richardson - @NationalComfortInstituteIncNCI
ππΌ Sherlock Homes Inspections - Matthew Fisher, HERS Rater/Trainer
ππΌ David Clevenger, HERS Rater (My right-hand man at Building Performance Group)
ππΌ Energy Vanguard - Allison Bailes @TheEnergyVanguard
ππΌ Nate Adams (Nate the House Whisperer) @NatetheHouseWhisperer
ππΌ Shawn Purcell, HERS Rater (Deceased) π
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