Tuff II Protecting External Rigid Foam Insulation

This video describes our method for protecting external rigid foam applied to basement foundations.
We discuss Styro Industries product Tuff II (styro.net/Tuff...)
Joseph Lstiburek has good article on this topic.
buildingscienc...

[@OJF300]

Any foam product running from footing to roof creates a hidden path for subterranean termite infestation. How do you ever inspect for this with this system?

[@RalstonEcoHomes]

No question this is a concern. We have two approaches to address the termite issue. One is use a local termite specialist who applies exterior soil treatments. We have also installed a “termite shield” on several of our homes. This a product from York Flashings called YorkShield 106 TS (ua-cam.com/video/kqYAmRL7Zgg/v-deo.html&pp=ygURcmFsc3RvbiBlY28gaG9tZXM%3D). If you have information about other practices we would love to hear them.

[@ericscott3997]

Why not use ROCKWOOL Comfortboard instead of the foam?

[@RalstonEcoHomes]

XPS rigid foam is more accepted locally. Our suppliers and subcontractors are more familiar with the product. ROCKWOOL Comfortboard would be a good alternative. I will give more consideration in the future.

[@ericscott3997]

@@RalstonEcoHomes Well, if you're the type to chase after Green Cred, (not implying you are, I like what I've seen so far) I believe the Rockwool products get you there. Keep up the great posts & obviously the great building science sound homes.

[@RalstonEcoHomes]

@@ericscott3997 Thank you. Rockwool is definitely “greener” than XPS. If you notice on the video we are using ZIP R-Sheathing as our air barrier. By taping the seams between the ZIP Sheathing and the rigid foam we have a continuous air barrier. If we used Rockwool we would need use a different strategy for our air barrier.

[@japansh]

@@RalstonEcoHomes You tape the ZIP-R to the concrete which is airtight. The rockwool is outside of the envelope. For the outside finishing of the basement wall /insulation have you considered FRP panels? They should be easily available come in different colors. You glue them to the insulation, works for both rigid foam and mineral wool.

[@deborahandjeffreyralston9885]

@@japansh We use ZIP R-Sheathing. It is nearly 2 inches thick and overhangs the foundation aligning perfectly with the 1.5 inch rigid foam. We tape the seam between the ZIP and rigid foam. FRP panels in our area only come in white. I have tried to order them in other colors. I get blank stares. I do not trust the durability of painting FRP panels. We are also hesitant to use panels that need to be cut around penetrations such as HVAC brackets. If FRP panels are available to you in the color you want I think they would be an excellent option if you are willing to take the time detailing penetrations.