Thermal Mass
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Building With Brick in a Humid Climate
A reader asks whether it makes any sense to build his forever house with thick, uninsulated brick walls
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Why Is My House So Hot?
A GBA reader believes that after he added more attic insulation, his air conditioning equipment runs longer than it used to
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When the Problem Is Heat
How to keep the heat outside when you live in the desert Southwest and daytime temperatures can top 100°F
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All About Thermal Mass
Interior thermal mass can sometimes help lower energy costs — but in cold climates, it’s won’t help much
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Resilient Design: Passive Solar Heat
Passive solar design is a key element of creating resilient homes
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How to Install Tile Over Concrete
An uncoupling membrane can prevent cracks in a slab from affecting tile or grout
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Does R-Value Trump Thermal Mass?
Choosing between insulated concrete forms and wood-framed walls
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Cost-Effective Passive Solar Design
Orient your house properly, include an adequate amount of south-facing glazing protected by roof overhangs, and include some interior thermal mass
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Using Sand to Store Solar Energy
Assessing the controversial claim that solar thermal heat gathered in summer can be stored in sand for winter use
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Can You Heat a House With Air Ducts in a Concrete Floor?
These uncommon designs have loyal followers but no real performance data: Is it just a throwback to the '70s?
