The inspection of insulation and ventilation systems is particularly challenging because so little of the systems can be seen. This text discusses how insulation, air/vapor barriers and ventilations systems work to keep houses comfortable and structurally sound. Basics of heat transfer and vapor movement are covered first to lay the groundwork for discussion of insulation and ventilation materials, systems, and applications. Thorough treatment of venting living spaces is provided, including balanced ventilation systmes and heat recovery ventilators (HRV's).

This book details how housing developed in Canada and includes revealing Canadian Home Builders Association records.

Investigative journalist Lloyd Tataryn demonstrated that formaldehyde--used so widely in consumer products that it was dubbed "the workhorse chemical"--should be considered a harmful chemical. The formaldehyde controversy began with the plight of the 80,000 Canadian families who filled the walls of their homes with urea formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI) in the 1960s and '70s. Many soon regretted taking government grants to install the foam: they suffered a host of health problems: respiratory ailments, headaches, nausea and rashes. And an increasing amount of evidence pointed to a link between formaldehyde exposure and cancer. First published in 1983, Formaldehyde on Trial is a startling study of how our technologically advanced "chemical society" remains backwards when it comes to protecting the public health.

The contributors identify important considerations for evaluating the current and future housing situation, clarify housing research issues and priorities, and indicate emergent policy issues. The essays are divided into six sections: economic, demographic, and institutional factors underlying the postwar demand for housing; principal aspects of the supply side of housing, including housing finance, technology, and regulation; housing-stock growth and changes in housing quality; the balance of supply and demand in terms of adequacy, suitability, and affordability; the changing settlement environment; and lessons, challenges, and issues for the future. The book also contains valuable summaries of housing policy initiatives undertaken between 1945 and 1986. An essential reference document on urban housing and city development in the postwar period in Canada, House, Home, and Community will be valuable to academics, planners, professionals, and students with interests related to housing.