NHIE Insulation and Ventilation

Question 1

What does R-value measure in building insulation?

Accepted Answer

The thermal resistance of insulation to heat flow

Answer

The density of the insulation material

Answer

The moisture permeability of insulation

Answer

The fire resistance rating of insulation

Question 2

Which older insulation material may contain asbestos and should be flagged as a potential health hazard during inspection?

Accepted Answer

Vermiculite insulation

Answer

Fiberglass batt insulation

Answer

Mineral wool (rock wool) insulation

Answer

Cellulose insulation

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of a vapor barrier installed on a crawl space floor?

Accepted Answer

To reduce soil moisture from migrating into the crawl space

Answer

To prevent structural damage from flooding

Answer

To improve air circulation under the floor

Answer

To prevent pest infiltration

Question 4

What is the minimum recommended attic ventilation ratio when a vapor retarder is present?

Accepted Answer

1:300

Answer

1:150

Answer

1:450

Answer

1:600

Question 5

Which type of insulation expands upon application to fill gaps and create an effective air seal?

Accepted Answer

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF)

Answer

Fiberglass batts

Answer

Mineral wool batts

Answer

Blown-in cellulose

Question 6

What is the primary function of soffit vents in an attic ventilation system?

Accepted Answer

To allow cool air to enter at the eaves and flow upward through the attic

Answer

To exhaust hot air from the attic peak

Answer

To reduce moisture accumulation in exterior wall cavities

Answer

To provide access points for pest control treatments

Question 7

What building science phenomenon causes warm, moist interior air to rise and accumulate in the attic?

Accepted Answer

The stack effect

Answer

Thermal bridging

Answer

Convective looping

Answer

Vapor diffusion