BAP Building Envelope & Insulation

Question 1

What does R-value measure in building insulation?

Accepted Answer

Thermal resistance of a material

Answer

Rate of air infiltration through a material

Answer

Reflectivity of a surface to radiant heat

Answer

Rate of moisture vapor absorption

Question 2

In cold climates, on which side of the wall assembly should a vapor retarder be installed?

Accepted Answer

On the warm-in-winter (interior) side of the insulation

Answer

On the exterior side of the wall cavity

Answer

In the middle of the insulation layer

Answer

On the exterior sheathing, behind the cladding

Question 3

Which insulation type has the highest R-value per inch of thickness?

Accepted Answer

Closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (ccSPF)

Answer

Fiberglass batt

Answer

Blown cellulose

Answer

Mineral wool batt

Question 4

What is the primary function of an air barrier in a building envelope?

Accepted Answer

To control bulk airflow through the building envelope

Answer

To prevent moisture vapor diffusion through wall assemblies

Answer

To reflect radiant heat from exterior surfaces

Answer

To increase the overall R-value of wall assemblies

Question 5

What is thermal bridging in a building assembly?

Accepted Answer

Heat transfer through a high-conductivity element that bypasses the insulation layer

Answer

A method for connecting insulation panels across framing members

Answer

Measurement of heat loss through fenestration products

Answer

A heat-exchange process between supply and return air streams

Question 6

In what order should air sealing and insulation work be performed during a retrofit?

Accepted Answer

Air seal all penetrations first, then install insulation

Answer

Insulate first, then air seal over the insulation

Answer

Either order is acceptable — there is no required sequence

Answer

Insulate, then air seal, then add a second insulation layer on top

Question 7

Which insulation product is best suited for filling irregular cavities and existing wall cavities during a retrofit without removing interior finishes?

Accepted Answer

Dense-pack cellulose

Answer

Fiberglass batts cut to fit

Answer

Rigid foam boards

Answer

Structural insulated panels (SIPs)