Sam and Ashly Hartmann, owners of RVI, are deep in the process of building their own custom home in Northern Wisconsin this summer and it has us thinking about the importance of building a house you can control.
A “Healthy” home means that we have total control over the environment. Of course, we have zero control of the external environment so let’s start by ensuring we keep that environment where it belongs- outside! Even the news likes to recommend we stay inside during obvious times of unhealthy air, such as wildfire smoke, dust, pollen and smog. Does the news know how well sealed our homes are? There’s a good chance there is just as much of that wildfire smoke in most homes as there is outside.
How about we stop trying to fight mother nature. Thinking ahead about how we can insulate and seal
up our home, whether you are building new or wanting to improve an existing home, will ensure we
leave that fight outside.
Wisconsin weather is beautiful, but we all know it’s also extreme. Summers are hot and humid! In the
winter we can expect to see temps near zero or well below. Winter can also bring in some very dry air. If we do not build our homes to manage these extreme environmental conditions the outdoors will find its way in. This leads to durability issues, health concerns and energy costs that become difficult to manage. This happens through leaks, gaps, and poorly managed pathways. And homeowners end up fighting the environment instead of living comfortably inside their home.
Ventilation Matters, But So Does the Barrier
Air sealing is how we create a house’s thermal envelope. It provides the barrier that separates the
indoor living space from whatever is happening outside.
When air sealing is done correctly, the home controls where the holes are, rather than letting the walls and ceiling decide. That translates into more consistent temperatures, fewer humidity issues, and a home that feels cleaner and more comfortable.
Fresh air is important. But it should be delivered intentionally, supported by a building envelope that is doing its job.
A “tight” home still needs ventilation. You don’t rely on unintended airflow to move air around; you want controlled fresh air that improves indoor air quality, without bringing in excess moisture or pollutants.
Enjoy the Weather, But Stay in Control
We’re not saying you have to live with the windows closed every day! Wisconsin blesses us with
beautiful days, so open the windows, enjoy the outdoors, and let the fresh air into your home when
conditions are right.
The goal is for your home to protect you when conditions are not right.
When it’s 90 degrees and humid, you want it cool and dry inside. When it is -20 degrees, you want it
warm inside, with moisture under control. Better air sealing, proper ventilation, and correct moisture
management make all of this possible.
At RVI, we build smart in Wisconsin because your home is your biggest investment. If you get the
envelope right and manage moisture correctly, you improve comfort, health, and efficiency. Get in touch with us so we can show you how correct building science makes all the difference!
