Strategy Guideline: Quality 

Management in Existing 

Homes

Cantilever Floor Example

J. Taggart, J. Sikora, J. Wiehagen, and

A. Wood

NAHB Research Center

December 2011
i

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i

Strategy Guideline:

Quality Management in Existing Homes

Prepared for: 

Building America

Building Technologies Program

Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy 

U.S. Department of Energy 

Prepared by: 

J. Taggart, J. Sikora, J. Wiehagen, A. Wood

The NAHB Research Center Industry Partnership

400 Prince George’s Boulevard

Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20774

NREL Technical Monitor: Stacey Rothgeb

Prepared under Subcontract No. KNDJ-0-40335-0

December 2011
ii

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iii

Contents

List of Figures ............................................................................................................................................ iv

List of Tables .............................................................................................................................................. iv

Background ................................................................................................................................................. 1

Introduction ................................................................................................................................................. 1

Scope of this Guideline..............................................................................................................1

Ideal Whole-House Deep Retrofit vs. Customer Determined Partial Retrofit.....................2

What is a QA Approach? .....................................................................................................2

Cantilever Floor Example ....................................................................................................3

Section 1: Inspection of Existing Conditions........................................................................................... 5

Typical Remodeling Project ......................................................................................................5

QA Approach for Energy Upgrade Remodeling Project ...........................................................6

Gather Data from Homeowner.............................................................................................6

Perform a Visual Inspection.................................................................................................6

Preliminary Testing (pre-retrofit) ........................................................................................9

Pre-Job Assessment Documentation....................................................................................9

Section 2. Tradeoffs: Design, Cost and Performance Considerations ............................................... 11

System Interaction and Design Considerations .......................................................................11

Cost and Performance: Benefits...............................................................................................12

Materials Specifications...........................................................................................................14

Section 3: Measure Implementation Details........................................................................................... 15

Installation Specifications and Procedure................................................................................15

Establishing the Construction Process.....................................................................................15

Scope of Work for Energy Upgrade of Cantilevered Floor Area ............................................17

General Contractor (framing, insulation, air sealing, clean up).........................................18

Plumber..............................................................................................................................19

HVAC Contractor..............................................................................................................19

Siding Contractor...............................................................................................................19

Performance Testing/Home Energy Rater.........................................................................19

Approved Materials .................................................................................................................19

Preventive Training..................................................................................................................20

Pre-Construction Meeting........................................................................................................24

Construction Process/Installation Procedure ...........................................................................25

Field Inspections......................................................................................................................27

Final Verification Procedures and Tests (post-retrofit) ...........................................................30

Quality Assurance and Satisfied Customers ......................................................................................... 30

References................................................................................................................................................. 31

Appendix A: Field Inspections................................................................................................................. 33
iv

Figures

Figure 1. Typical Building America climate regions ............................................................................... 2

Figure 2. House with cantilever front and rear following remodel......................................................... 3

Figure 3. Typical cantilevered floor area depicting issues leading to performance problems .......... 4

Figure 4. Existing conditions of cantilever floor area per visual inspection........................................ 9

Figure 5. Pre-job assessment visual inspection checklist example.................................................... 10

Figure 6. Construction process flow chart for a sealed and insulated cantilevered floor area........ 17

Figure 7. Cantilevered floor blocking, air sealing, and insulation detail............................................. 18

Figure 8. Cantilevered floor blocking, air sealing, and insulation ....................................................... 20

Figure 9. Cantilevered floor blocking training sheet............................................................................. 22

Figure 10. Cantilevered floor air sealing training sheet........................................................................ 23

Figure 11. Cantilevered floor training sign-in sheet.............................................................................. 24

Figure 12. Job ready inspection checklist example .............................................................................. 28

Figure 13. Job complete inspection checklist example........................................................................ 29

 

Unless otherwise noted, all figures were created by the NAHBRC team. 

Tables

Table 1. Initial Assessment Comparison for Cantilever Floor Area ...................................................... 5

Table 2. Impact of Cantilever Floor Area Improvement on House Systems/Features....................... 12

Table 3. Example Qualitative Benefits for this Effort ............................................................................ 13

Table 4. Example Costs for this Effort.................................................................................................... 14

Table 5. Construction Process, Inspection Criteria, and Documentation Requirements for the 

Energy Upgrade of a Cantilevered Floor Area................................................................................. 25

Table 6. Inspection Schedule and Criteria Outline ................................................................................ 34

Unless otherwise noted, all tables were created by the NAHBRC team.
1

Background

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Building America (BA) Program research teams work with 

industry partners to enhance energy-efficiency, durability, indoor air quality and occupant 

comfort of new and existing homes. The recent increased emphasis in BA on high performing 

remodels is revealing a significant need for quality management in these projects for successful 

implementation because of the complexity of energy efficiency retrofits which must deal with 

aesthetic and performance improvements, and existing performance problems. This quality 

management need is heightened by the fragmented nature of the remodeling industry and by the 

lack of widespread adoption of quality management systems in the industry. Given this, a 

comprehensive package of remodeling details, measures, and guidelines is needed for 

remodeling to address the potential for energy efficiency as well as the livability of the home. 

Introduction

The goal of existing home high performing remodeling quality management systems (HPRQMS) is to establish practices and processes that can be used throughout any remodeling project. 

The research presented in this document provides a comparison of a selected retrofit activity as 

typically done versus that same retrofit activity approached from an integrated high performance 

remodeling and quality management perspective. It highlights some key quality management 

tools and approaches that can be adopted incrementally by a high performance remodeler for this 

or any high performance retrofit. This example is intended as a template and establishes a 

methodology that can be used to develop a portfolio of high performance remodeling strategies. 

Scope of this Guideline

This guideline is designed to highlight the quality assurance (QA) process that can be applied to 

any retrofit activity. The cantilevered floor retrofit detailed in this guideline is included only to 

provide an actual retrofit example to better illustrate the QA activities being presented. This 

document is not intended to present a thorough technical approach to any and all cantilevered 

floors of various types of construction and in various climate regions. Rather, this example is 

based on an actual house remodel of the cantilevered floors in the mixed-humid climate of the 

suburbs of Washington, D.C. This work is a detailed project that will ultimately be outlined by

the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Guidelines for Home Energy Professionals Standard 

Work Specifications currently under development1

 1 http://www1.eere.energy.gov/wip/retrofit_guidelines_overview.html

. 
2 

Source: U.S. Department of Energy 

Figure 1. Typical Building America climate regions

Ideal Whole-House Deep Retrofit vs. Customer Determined Partial Retrofit 

The best practice, where financially feasible, is to conduct a whole-house energy audit and use 

the results to design and implement a comprehensive deep energy retrofit. However, depending 

on the budget and wishes of the homeowner, this assessment may be more limited to addressing 

the particular issue that has motivated the homeowner to contact the energy specialist or other 

contractor. However, even in cases where the contractor is only going to address limited 

elements of the house per the customer’s request, the QA approach requires that the contractor 

consider the whole-house implications of any work he plans to do such that his work does not 

adversely affect the house’s performance across any of the categories enumerated above.

What is a QA Approach?

The QA approach outlined herein is a step-by-step process approach to effectively implement 

high performance remodels and includes the design, implementation, and verification phases as 

detailed below. 

Design

1) Pre-job assessment for energy efficiency, health and safety, durability, IAQ, and comfort 

that considers whole-house implications

2) System interaction and design considerations 

3) Costs and benefits evaluation and explanation to customer/homeowner 

4) Material Specifications for the specific remodeling project

Implementation

5) Develop a sequence of work and assign responsible parties 

6) Develop scopes of work and/or establish clear, documented requirements for material and 

construction specifications and tolerances, and best practices to be followed 

7) Establish documented inspection points and inspection criteria for contractors and the site 

supervisor, including job-ready, in process, and final inspections 

8) Review all construction sequences and responsibilities with contractors 
3

9) Train (or re-emphasize) contractors on the critical specifications and best practices for 

high performance retrofits with hotspot training sheets or other training approaches

Verification

10) Create accountability for contractors by conducting careful inspections and by utilizing 

diagnostic and performance testing in the presence of the contractors in order to 

demonstrate to them the performance impact on the home of not doing precise and 

careful installations

Each of the QA elements listed above is explained in greater detail herein.

Cantilever Floor Example

As outlined above, this document uses the example of a cantilever floor remodel as the basis for 

detailing a quality assurance approach. A cantilevered floor system that projects beyond the 

supporting wall as shown in Figure 2 is a common architectural element in U.S. homes. This 

system is common in split-level, ranch, and two-story homes as an affordable way to expand 

above-grade living area without increasing excavation costs. In this case, a homeowner in the 

mixed-humid climate of the suburbs of Washington, D.C., was experiencing cold floors and as a 

result wanted to remodel the cantilever area to improve interior comfort. The reason for the cold 

floors in this situation is due to poor air sealing and insulation in the cantilever area. 

Figure 2. House with cantilever front and rear following remodel

The cantilevered floor area was insulated with fiberglass batts and covered on the underside with 

soffit material that is perforated and permeable―therefore, not airtight. In addition, the existing 

design lacks an external air barrier (e.g., sheathing) and permits the relatively free flow of air 

into the cantilevered space and ultimately directly into the house. There is a direct path for air to 

infiltrate the home through the vented soffit over the interior wall as shown in Figure 3. The air 

leakage path through the cantilevered floor area is clearly evident by the dirty spots seen 

throughout the insulation in Figure 3. The air leakage through a typical cantilevered floor also 

leads to uneven room temperatures, increased energy bills, and potential condensation issues that 

can lead to deterioration within the cantilevered space. 
4

Figure 3. Typical cantilevered floor area depicting issues leading to performance problems

Holes cut in the subfloor to accommodate plumbing drains also permit the flow of air between 

the cantilevered area and the interior, increasing air infiltration to the interior and creating cold 

floors that can lead to condensation as shown in Figure 3. In addition, an exhaust vent runs 

through the space nearly adjacent to the exterior and, therefore, is barely insulated. During cold 

weather, the warm moist air running through this exhaust vent condenses in the vent duct, 

causing deterioration of the vent duct and, possibly, wetting of the insulation and water leakage 

through the soffit material. Further, if mechanical systems are run through the exposed floor 

systems, there is potential for excessive energy loss, condensation, and/or pipe freezing.

To address the comfort and energy issues that this home experienced involves removing 

deteriorated materials, preventing airflow between the interior and the exterior through the 

cantilever, relocating mechanical pipes when possible, and insulating the floor above and all 

mechanical systems to current code values. This report presents a comparison of a typical 

remodel to one that applies QA processes to address energy performance in the remediation of a 

cantilevered floor area encountered during a remodeling job. 

Important Definitions: 

Cantilevered Floor Area: An architectural element in which structural floor framing members extend 

beyond the supporting wall below creating an overhang on the building’s exterior. 

Crew Leader: The leader of an independent on-site work crew responsible for efficiently producing a 

quality result based on the client contract and the scope of work.

Inspection Checklist: A company form used to document completed work in the field.

Quality Assurance: A systematic monitoring and evaluation of various aspects of a project to 

maximize the probability that minimum standards are being attained using processes, auditing, 

training, QA review, etc. 

Quality Standards: A company-specific list of standards and tolerances for completion of any 

company work (e.g. dimensional lumber (joists, studs or rafters) shall be inspected before use and 

all pieces with open knotholes larger than 3⁄4” are to be set aside for eventual return and credit).
5

Section 1: Inspection of Existing Conditions

The first step in any remodeling project is determining the existing conditions of the home. In the 

cantilever floor example, a homeowner specifically requested remodeling the cantilever area due 

to cold floors. In order to facilitate this project, the first step is to assessg this area. 

Table 1 details the assessment process for a cantilever floor. The table compares the process for a 

typical remodeling project with a QA approach for an energy upgrade remodel. One significant 

difference between the two approaches is the fact that the QA approach considers whole-house 

implications even when simply remodeling the cantilever area. Both are detailed further in the 

following sections. 

Table 1. Initial Assessment Comparison for Cantilever Floor Area

Typical Remodel QA Approach for Energy Upgrade 

Remodel

Initial Assessment Possible visual inspection of 

cantilever. 

Often informal as result of visible 

problem including: 

• Health and safety issues 

• Durability issues

• Informal, undocumented 

visual inspection

Gather data from homeowner about 

cantilever area. 

Conduct systematic visual inspection of all 

cantilever areas including: 

• Health and safety issues 

• Durability issues 

• Indoor air quality considerations

• Documented visual inspection

o Insulation

o Air sealing

o Location of ducts, piping, 

etc. 

• Preliminary Testing

o Air leakage with blower 

door test

o Thermal imagery with IR 

camera

Typical Remodeling Project

In a typical remodeling project including a cantilevered floor area, the cantilever may or may not 

undergo inspection or design considerations. If there are no visible issues (e.g., evidence of 

moisture or structural issues) the area may remain unchanged from a design standpoint during 

the course of a remodel. If the house were also being re-sided, or if the flooring over the 

cantilever were being replaced, the area might or might not be exposed and inspected. If any 

inspection is performed it is often informal and limited by the contractor’s understanding of 

potential performance issues (e.g., condition of framing members may be examined or insulation 

of pipes to code may be considered).
6

QA Approach for Energy Upgrade Remodeling Project

To address energy performance, an inspection of obvious locations of areas where air leakage 

and inadequate insulation will likely be found can be incorporated as part of a whole house 

assessment as the first step of a remodeling project. Using a quality assurance (QA) approach in 

conjunction with energy efficiency considerations in a remodeling project ensures that 

performance issues and whole-house interactions with the house are identified for the 

homeowner. Using a QA approach for a remodel focused on high performance, a cantilevered 

floor area will be inspected as a matter of course because cantilevered floor areas are areas that 

commonly compromise energy efficiency and comfort in many existing homes. During this 

initial assessment, a general contractor will gather data, perform inspections, and assess the 

home. 

Gather Data from Homeowner

Before inspecting a cantilevered area, it is useful to verify the issues and ask the homeowners 

about any related problems they may have encountered. After all, specific items may have been 

previously rectified (or built properly from the outset) and, hence, no remediation is required. 

Suggested questions about the example cantilever for the homeowner include:

• Are the floors near this area cold in winter? Are they hot in the summer?

• Do you experience cooler winter temperatures in rooms adjacent to this area?

• Does this room feel “drafty” on windy days?

• Have you detected any signs of moisture from the overhanging area? (e.g., stains on 

siding, insect activity) 

• Have you ever experienced frozen pipes in adjacent interior spaces?

• Has this area been previously renovated? If so, do you know what was done? Do you 

have photographs?

Perform a Visual Inspection

After verifying that performance issues have been experienced, and the cantilevered floor area is 

the suspected culprit, the next step is to visually inspect the cantilever area. Depending on 

existing conditions and the scope of the remodeling job, visual inspection of the remodel area

can take place from the interior or exterior of the home. 

In general, a visual inspection from the exterior is typically the least destructive. Further, if 

remediation is needed, access from the exterior is desirable. If the remodeling job is extensive, 

however, access from the interior may also be possible. For this initial inspection, if minimal 

intrusion is required, interior inspection may be accomplished by creating small holes in several 

of the joist bays and inspecting with small mirrors and flashlights. 

During inspection, the contractor assesses any potential risks related to the area. For a 

cantilevered floor area, this includes:

Health and Safety

Asbestos: Asbestos siding should remain intact unless OSHA procedures are followed. If unsure 

whether material contains asbestos, contact a qualified asbestos professional to assess the 

material; sample and test as needed.
7

Lead Paint: EPA procedures for lead-based paint are followed for a house 

built prior to 1978. Renovations and retrofit activities should comply with 

EPA’s Lead-Safe Renovation, Repair and Painting Rules if disturbing an 

area greater than 6 square feet of interior or 20 square feet of exterior 

painted surfaces.

Combustion Safety: Combustion safety inspections should follow the BPI 

Home Energy Auditing Standard or the RESNET Mortgage Industry 

National Home Energy Rating Standards and address backdrafting and 

roll-out for homes using combustion equipment and/or appliances.

Radon: The requirements of the local ordinance for radon mitigation 

should be followed. Where local ordinances do not address radon 

mitigation for existing buildings, the protocol for new construction can be 

followed with regard to establishing radon hazard levels and the need for 

mitigation measures. Where local ordinances do not address radon, use 

the EPA Map of Radon Zones (www.epa.gov) or conduct radon testing 

on site to establish the radon hazard level. If radon level exceeds 4.0 

pCi/L, implement mitigation measures in accordance with ASTM 2121 

‘Standard Practice for Installing Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing 

Low-Rise Residential Buildings’.

Address any health and safety issues prior to the retrofit.

Durability

Address degradation of the cantilevered area from 

moisture degradation of the structural members or 

improper structural design prior to the retrofit.

: 

Structural: Degradation of the structural members 

or improper structural design is considered. 

Moisture Problems/Vapor Diffusion: Insufficient 

and improper air sealing and insulation can create conditions favorable for 

moisture accumulation, which can affect the building’s durability. The 

addition of interior moisture from improper ventilation (e.g. water vapor 

from showering, cooking, etc) can also increase moisture accumulation 

and affect durability. 

Consider air sealing design of the cantilever area to reduce moisture 

accumulation.

Consider ventilation strategies with increased air sealing.

Moisture Problems/Bulk Water Leaks: Water leaks may be due to 

plumbing leaks, (drains, water on floor of bathroom or kitchen leaking 

onto floor assembly, etc.) or improper flashing and/or exterior drainage 

plane.

Address any bulk water leaks prior to remodel.

Contractor/ 

Homeowner Safety 

Addressing structural 

issues is paramount 

to the safety of the 

contractor and the 

homeowners.

Under the typical 

remodeling approach, 

underlying issues that 

led to structural 

damage may not be 

rectified. 

Using a QA approach 

to repair of a 

cantilevered floor 

area, a contractor will 

systematically 

address all relevant 

health and safety 

issues. 

References to Other 

Guidelines, Codes, and 

Standards: 

OSHA standard 

1926.1101 covers safety 

and health regulations for 

construction involving 

asbestos

EPA’s Lead-Safe 

Renovation, Repair and 

Painting Rules detail the 

requirements for lead-based 

paint in remodeling

BPI Home Energy 

Auditing Standard & the 

RESNET Mortgage 

Industry National Home 

Energy Rating Standards

address the procedures for 

auditing a home. 

ASTM2121 is the standard 

to installing radon 

mitigation systems in lowrise residential buildings 
8

Consider flashing details and exterior drainage plane location in the cantilever remodel.

Freezing Pipes: Water pipes in the exterior of existing homes are often essentially running

through unconditioned space. Without proper air sealing and insulation, freezing pipes can result. 

Consider moving and/or insulating water pipes in cantilever area.

Insects: Unwanted pests such as termites can affect durability. In addition, stinging insects can 

impede remodeling projects. 

Address termites and other insects affecting durability prior to remodeling the cantilever area.

Consider stinging insects when remodeling the cantilever.

Indoor Air Quality

Consider air sealing strategies to address air sealing in the cantilever area.

: Unmitigated airflow from insufficient and improper air sealing can bring 

unwanted pollutants into the home from the exterior or garage areas. If the home is not properly 

ventilated, water vapor from showering, cooking, etc. can affect indoor air quality. 

Based on post-retrofit infiltration levels, additional mechanical ventilation may be necessary and 

should be installed to have the capability of supplying fresh air at levels outlined in ASHRAE 

Standard 62.2.

The initial visual inspection will examine the area and document the current conditions, to the 

extent possible prior to demolition, for any health and safety, durability, and indoor air quality 

items that need to be addressed. In addition, the initial inspection will also investigate how to 

improve the homeowner’s comfort around the cantilever floor area. This will focus on 

investigating the air sealing and insulation because these are the most common reasons in the 

mixed-humid climate for cold floors. Therefore, the visual inspection will also document any of 

the following, if present: 

Existence of a continuous air barrier separating the outdoors and the cantilevered space

Existence and type of insulation

Blocking (to minimize airflow) between joist bays and supporting wall

Air sealing measures around penetrations through sub-floor above cantilevered area.

Existing duct sealing measures.

The results of the visual inspection are shown Figure 4. There is batt insulation installed, 

however, it is not installed in every cavity of the cantilever floor. In addition, the insulation is 

dirty indicating that there is significant air flow through the insulation. There is not currently an 

air barrier or blocking installed and there is minimal air sealing of penetrations and duct sealing 

measures currently installed. 
9

Figure 4. Existing conditions of cantilever floor area per visual inspection

Preliminary Testing (Pre-retrofit)

While testing may not be warranted specifically for the cantilever floor remodeling example 

because the visual inspection shows that additional air sealing and insulation is needed, testing 

complements the visual inspection and also provides a baseline for whole-house energy 

performance. The best practice, where financially feasible, is to conduct a whole-house energy 

audit. However, depending on the budget and wishes of the homeowner, this assessment may be 

limited to the scope of the specific remodel. For the cantilever floor example, a blower door test 

and thermal imagery complemented the visual inspection. 

Pre-Job Assessment Documentation

As part of the assessment process, it is important to document the current conditions, 

recommendations, and general findings per a pre-job assessment. The assessment form includes 

details of the health and safety, durability and indoor air quality considerations as well as the 

visual inspection and testing. The cantilever floor example pre-job assessment form shown in 

Figure 5 has been customized for this particular retrofit but could also be either modified or left 

more generic for use with any retrofit assessment. 
10 

Pre-Job Assessment Form Example

Cantilevered Floor Air Sealing and Insulation 

(Insert Remodeling/Retrofit Company Name and Logo) 

Company Name: Project: Location: 

Name (Visual Inspector): Date:

Instructions: Check box if OK, circle box if correction is needed. Note the current condition and specific action recommended for the 

remodel. Check box when completed. 

OK Describe current condition and recommended action

1. Gather data from homeowner detailing issues 

The floors are cold in the winter. The homeowner did not notice 

they are particularly hot in the summer. All of the rooms along 

the cantilever have cold floors near to the exterior wall. The area 

near the cantilever does seem drafty as well.

The homeowner has not seen signs of moisture from the 

overhanging area or experienced frozen pipes. In addition, this 

area has not been previously renovated. 

2.

All proper health and safety quality measures have 

been taken to conduct the assessment inspection

(asbestos, lead paint, combustion safety, radon, etc)



Health and Safety:

− Asbestos is not present on this site

− Lead paint does not apply as the exterior is not painted

− Combustion safety is not an issue in this all-electric house

− Radon is addressed through passive venting

3.

All existing construction exposed for inspection. 

Durability issues (structural, moisture, freezing pipes, 

insects, etc) and indoor air quality considerations (air 

sealing from garage, ventilation) are noted and photodocumented.



Durability:

− No indication of structural damage

− No indication of moisture damage

− No damage or leaks from freezing pipes

− No indication of insects

Indoor Air Quality:

− No attached garage

− Sufficient ventilation is provided

4. Existing air sealing measures provide continuous air 

sealing between the exterior and conditioned space. 

Darkened areas of insulation indicate air leakage 

No continuous air barrier installed

5. Existing insulation is installed per manufacturer’s 

instructions without substantial gaps or voids. 

Fiberglass batt insulation installed

Missing insulation in some cavities

6. Blocking installed between joist bays and supporting 

wall to minimize airflow. No blocking installed between joist bays 

7. Existing penetrations into area (from interior and 

exterior) are air sealed. Penetrations are not air sealed

8. Ducts in the cantilever floor area are sealed using 

UL181 tape, mastic, or gaskets per code.  Duct seams are sealed

9. Diagnostic or performance tests to complement visual 

inspection. 

Planned testing includes:

− Blower door test (provide results to homeowner)

− Thermal imagery with IR camera

Additional Notes

Sign here to acknowledge that all above items have been 

evaluated Signature (Visual Inspector): Date:

Figure 5. Pre-job assessment visual inspection checklist example
11

Section 2. Tradeoffs: Design, Cost and Performance 

Considerations

After the initial assessment described in the previous section (including gathering data, visual 

inspections, and preliminary testing) identifies a need for a performance upgrade, the design 

process begins. This process involves consideration of several factors, including homeowner 

priorities, the extent of the need for remediation, the scope of the remodeling project, the benefits

of potential solutions, whole-house system interactions, and the availability of materials. 

In a typical remodel that exposes a cantilevered floor area, a contractor would likely address any 

wood deterioration issues, insulate mechanical systems that run through the space, and replace 

materials such as vented soffit and fiberglass insulation as needed. Yet, because a whole-house 

consideration and systematic approach to addressing building science issues would not occur 

under the typical scenario, the underlying issues which caused performance problems often 

would remain. In a typical remodeling scenario, the interaction between the cantilevered floor 

area and other systems may be informally or formally considered. However, this analysis would 

vary greatly depending on the contractor’s knowledge of building science and interest in 

addressing issues that may seem to be unrelated.

Using a QA approach, the remodeler methodically weighs many factors to identify possible 

actions for creating an effective air barrier between the exterior and the cantilevered floor area 

and for effectively insulating the area. 

System Interaction and Design Considerations

In a typical remodeling situation, repair of a cantilever floor area would focus on replacing 

materials that appear to be degraded (e.g., siding, wood framing) and, possibly, upgrades of floor 

and mechanical system insulation to meet code requirements. 

Using a QA approach, there are numerous other considerations for the cantilevered floor area. 

The remodeler taking a QA approach considers what improvements are needed for the wholehouse, but will limit the applicable work to the scope of the project. In the cantilever floor 

example, the need for air sealing and insulating these areas and the impact of the upgrade on 

other systems of the home is part of the whole-house considerations. Via a QA approach, the 

remodeler considers possible energy efficiency, comfort, and durability improvements in every 

project. These considerations will answer the question: how does improving this specific area 

impact other systems in the house? Specifically for this example, how does improving the 

cantilever floor area impact other systems and/or features? The impact of the cantilever floor 

improvement is outlined in Table 2. 
12

Table 2. Impact of Cantilever Floor Area Improvement on House Systems/Features

System/Feature 

Impact of Improving Cantilever Floor on Other Systems/Features

Typical Remodeling Scenario Energy Upgrade Remodeling 

Scenario

(block, seal, and insulate overhangs)

Air sealing/wholehouse air leakageImpact is not typically considered Overall impact on whole house air 

leakage depends on size of cantilever, 

the air leakage through the cantilever, 

and leakage of the whole house. 

HVAC and 

ventilation

Impact is not typically considered Impact on HVAC loads and need for 

ventilation is typically minimal. 

However, if combined with wholehouse sealing effort, impact can be 

large.

Indoor air quality Impact is not typically considered If sealing is extensive, potential for 

indoor air quality/backdrafting issues.

Durability Impact on durability may include 

structural issues considered as part 

of health and safety 

Impact also includes condition of 

siding for enhanced durability and 

cosmetic reasons

Impact includes improved durability 

of floor joist area

Moisture issues Impact on moisture may be 

considered

Impact on moisture includes resolving 

possible existing moisture issues in the 

cantilever though enhanced air sealing 

and insulating

Occupant Comfort Impact is not typically considered Impact on comfort includes resolving 

comfort issues of cold floor and 

draftiness. 

Code Issues Impact on code issues includes 

improved floor insulation R-value 

per code

Impact on code issues includes 

considering floor insulation R-value 

beyond code 

Impact also includes fire-stopping for 

foam insulation adjacent to 

conditioned space

Cost and Performance: Benefits 

Under the typical remodeling scenario in which damaged materials (e.g., sheathing, framing 

members, siding) are being replaced, design considerations related to cost and performance are 

often simple (e.g., “What is the least expensive option for insulating to code R-value?” or “What 
13

materials do I have leftover from another job to put into this small repair?”). Bigger decisions, 

such as what type of siding to use, rely heavily on homeowner preference. 

In a QA approach for an energy upgrade remodeling project, performance benefits and values are 

important considerations for selecting retrofit measures. Table 3 summarizes the decisionmaking process for a typical remodeling scenario and an energy upgrade. The side-by-side 

comparison of the costs and benefits of each retrofit option (typical vs. energy upgrade) can be 

an effective method for communicating options to the customer. 

Benefits of upgrading a cantilever floor using a QA approach include the impact on both

occupant comfort and the building’s durability. For example, addressing the air sealing and 

insulation of the cantilever floor area can have a significant impact on comfort of interior rooms 

near the cantilever through eliminating cold floors as well as increasing durability through 

addressing existing and potential moisture issues. In addition, the installed upgrade cost of this 

work is not expensive and it is a much better approach that addresses performance issues. Table 

3 outlines the benefits for this example qualitatively. 

Table 3. Example Qualitative Benefits for this Effort

Benefit Typical Remodeling Energy Upgrade Remodeling 

Block, seal, and insulate 

overhangs 

Energy Savings Minimal or none Can be appreciable (quantified in 

Table 4) by potentially:

• Reducing air infiltration* 

• Resulting in reduced use of 

the HVAC system 

• Increasing comfort through 

more consistent temperature

Durability May not be enhanced Improved through addressing air 

sealing, moisture issues, and siding

Indoor Health, Safety 

and Air Quality

Unchanged Possible impact by adding 

ventilation strategies when 

enhancing air sealing

Comfort Many remain unchanged Improved comfort by eliminating 

any cold floors from cantilever 

floor air leakage 

* Ventilation must be considered in conjunction with reducing air infiltration to ensure health and safety 

through sufficient outdoor air.

While it is not necessary to have a detailed cost comparison, it is important to illustrate the 

benefits and the costs to a client for a specific remodeling project. When talking with a 

homeowner, a remodeler could outline that the benefits from a QA approach to a cantilever floor 

remodel includes energy savings, durability, and increased comfort (i.e. warmer floor areas near 

the cantilever) and show the costs of this upgrade based on the benefits and costs outlined in 

Table 3 and Table 4 respectively.
14

Table 4. Example Costs for this Effort2

Typical Remodeling Energy Upgrade Remodeling 

Cost Notes Cost Notes

Setup

Minimum setup $271 site visit $271 site visit

Demo $96 $96

Block, Air Seal, Insulation

1" polyisocyanurate sheets $0 $64 2 sheets at $32

Labor to cut and install $0 $64 2 hours at $32

Can of spray foam $0 $6

Labor $0 $16 1/2 hour

Air seal at 2nd deck $0 $6

Labor $0 $16 1/2 hour

Insulate cantilever $65 R-19 $103 R-30

Rebuild

Cantilever $300 ventilated vinyl $281 plywood

Finishing $166 caulk and paint

Total $731 $1,090

Upgrade Cost $358

There is also potential for performing a comprehensive air sealing and insulation retrofit on the 

whole house either incrementally in future remodeling projects or as part of a larger remodeling 

project such as re-siding the home. Addressing whole-house air sealing and insulation can have a 

significant impact on whole-house energy efficiency. 

Materials Specifications

In a typical remodeling project, any existing insulation would be reused or replaced with similar 

material and, if replacement is needed, the vented or unsealed soffit would also be replaced with 

new vented or unsealed soffit. 

However, in a QA approach energy remodeling project of a cantilevered floor system that is 

accessible from the exterior, air sealing and insulating from the exterior using readily available 

foam insulating materials is possible. For this project, a mix of nonstructural rigid foam 

sheathing board, insulating spray foam sealant, unfaced fiberglass batt insulation, and plywood 

sheathing is selected for its low cost and relatively high performance benefits.

 2 RS Means Repair & Remodeling Construction Data 2010
15

Section 3: Measure Implementation Details

Installation Specifications and Procedure

In the typical remodeling process, after design decisions have been made and 

products selected, the contractor consults manufacturer’s literature for 

installation specifications and installation issues related to product warranties. 

The remodeler conducting an energy upgrade taking a QA approach also 

consults manufacturer’s installation instructions and installation issues related 

to product warranties when developing specifications, but must go further to:

• Formalize the steps in the construction process

• Identify parties responsible for each phase of construction

• Develop scopes of work, as needed, for each trade contractor, 

including the establishment of tolerances for best practices that fall 

outside manufacturer’s installation specifications

• Establish inspection points and need for documenting work

• Provide training to contractors, as needed.

Establishing the Construction Process

In a typical remodeling scenario, the construction process is outlined, to a 

varying degree of detail, in a contract or verbally between the homeowner and 

Critical; Takeaways: 

1. Using a QA approach to remodeling, a cantilevered floor area will be investigated for 

performance issues. 

2. Sealing and insulating a cantilevered floor area can improve comfort, improve energy 

efficiency, and mitigate potential building durability issues. 

3. Whenever possible, water pipes and other mechanical distribution systems should be 

avoided in cantilevered floor areas. However, if installed, air seal penetration to living 

space. 

4. There are several process and material options for air sealing and insulating a cantilevered 

floor area. The best approach depends on the type and extent of remodeling job, climate,

available materials, budget, and accessibility to the area.

5. Using a QA approach can ensure that the proper processes and materials are used in the job, 

thereby enhancing the likelihood of success. 

6. Fibrous insulation materials do not stop air flow. Rigid materials such as wood, rigid foam, 

and spray foam products are best for air sealing. 

Important 

Definitions: 

Hotspot Training: A 

picture-based, 

right/wrong way 

of training to 

correct or 

highlight a 

specific 

action/item

Inspection Checklist: 

A company form 

used to document 

completed work 

in the field
16

the remodeler. If building permits are required, there may be a formal inspection by the authority 

having jurisdiction. However, in lieu of permits, there may be an informal inspection of the work 

by the homeowner, or between the general contractor and the subcontractor. 

For a QA approach to an energy upgrade, the construction process is formalized with critical 

inspection points that ensure specifications are followed and tolerances met. Each person is 

assigned responsibilities and, through inspection or documentation, is held accountable for their 

role in the job’s execution. A diagram of the process of construction for the insulated and sealed 

cantilevered floor area is found in Figure 6. A more detailed discussion of the process follows in 

Construction Process/Installation Procedure section. While the cantilever remodel is a simple 

example, the process outlined enables a remodeler to effectively address more complex projects. 

In addition, the flow chart detailed in Figure 6 enables a remodeler to highlight the construction 

processes to show the homeowner improvements as well as to use as a marketing tool. 

References to Other Guidelines, Codes, and Standards: 

Section 316 of the 2009 International Residential Code covers the protection of foam 

insulation from flame spread

Section N1102 of the 2009 IRC covers R-value requirements for the building thermal envelope

Section N1103.2.1 of the 2009 IRC outlines insulation requirements for ducts. For ducts in 

cantilevered floor areas, insulation levels should be at least to those required for unconditioned 

space. 

Section N1103.2.2 of the 2009 IRC outlines sealing requirements for ducts

Section 703.1.2 of the National Green Building Standard describes Grade I insulation 

installation
17

Figure 6. Construction process flow chart for a sealed and insulated cantilevered floor area

Scope of Work for Energy Upgrade of Cantilevered Floor Area

The scope of work for the remodeling job forms the basis of the contractual agreement. In the 

case of sealing and insulating a cantilevered floor area remodel, the following trades may be 

involved: 

1. General 

a. Framing
18 

b. Insulation Contractor 

c. Air sealing Contractor 

d. Clean up Contractor 

2. Plumber

3. HVAC Contractor 

4. Siding Contractor

5. Performance Testing/Home Energy Rater

As part of developing the scope of work, it is important to have 

available and include the construction detail. In this example, the detail 

for the cantilever floor upgrade is shown in Figure 7. This is also 

referenced in the Scopes of Work text outlined by trade following the 

figure. 

Figure 7. Cantilevered floor blocking, air sealing, and insulation detail

General Contractor (framing, insulation, air sealing, clean up)

Install rigid foam blocking between the floor joists over the supporting wall below per Figure 7. 

Spray foam in a rectangular pattern around all rigid foam blocking. This can be done from the 

interior, if accessible. 

Spray foam any penetration between the conditioned space and the cantilevered floor area (e.g., 

nail holes, mechanical pipes). Sheet material (e.g., rigid foam or wood) may be required in the 

case of large penetrations. 

Insulate any mechanical pipes in space per code. 

Install R-30 unfaced fiberglass batts between floor joists in permanent contact with the subfloor. 

Contractor/ Homeowner 

Safety 

The contractor must inform 

all workers and occupants 

of potential relevant site 

hazards and OSHA 

guidelines related to these 

hazards, and communicate 

to all parties that safety 

guidelines are a 

requirement that all must 

adhere to. 

All workers should be 

trained on jobsite safety 

issues prior to visiting or 

beginning work on a 

jobsite. 

Any occupants of a home 

should be trained on safety 

issues related to the 

specific remodeling work 

being done. 

Any occupants should be 

instructed as to what is and 

is not acceptable in and 

around the work areas 

including what, when and 

how it is safe to inspect the 

work being conducted. 
19

Install rigid, unvented plywood soffit to underside of fiberglass batt insulation. Seal all seams 

with silicone caulk to prevent air leakage into soffit area. 

If electrical wires are installed in the cantilever, cut insulation to fit around wires. 

Spray foam all penetrations into and out of the cantilevered floor area, (e.g., through the floor 

above and the cantilevered space), electrical penetrations in the soffit, and exhaust vent terminus. 

Plumber

Whenever possible, avoid running any plumbing lines in a cantilevered floor area. 

If plumbing supply lines must be run in cantilevered floor areas, run as close as possible to the 

finished, conditioned space, allowing room for ample insulation around the pipes to protect from 

freezing temperatures. 

HVAC Contractor

When possible, avoid running mechanical vents or distribution pipes through a cantilevered floor 

area. 

If ducts must be run through a cantilevered floor area, position as closely as possible to the 

conditioned space to maximize the amount of insulation around the pipes and seal all seams with 

mastic or foil tape at all seams. 

If a vent pipe (e.g., exhaust fan duct) runs through a cantilevered floor area, seal around any 

termination at the exterior with spray foam to prevent air leakage into the cantilevered floor area. 

If an exhaust vent runs through a cantilevered floor area to a termination, ensure a slight slope 

such that any potential condensation in the vent duct will drain away from the house. 

Siding Contractor

Vented soffit should not be used under a cantilevered floor area unless there is an air barrier 

(e.g., plywood soffit) above. 

Performance Testing/Home Energy Rater

The performance testing/home energy rater can be used to gather baseline data as well as 

perform a post-blower door test to document the improvement 

Approved Materials

It is also important to outline the approved materials for the project. For a QA approach to 

energy remodeling of a cantilevered floor, the material specifications as depicted in Figure 7 and 

Figure 8 include:

a. Unvented soffit: Exterior painted plywood sheathing 

b. Blocking: 

i. 1” thick nonstructural sheathing board (R-6.5) between floor joists

ii. Alternate acceptable products are 1” XPS or polyisocyanurate rigid foam 

sheathing)

c. Air Sealing: 

i. Normal expansion polyurethane spray foam insulating sealant 

ii. Construction adhesive or caulk

d. Insulation: R-30 un-faced insulation in joist cavities
20 

Figure 8. Cantilevered floor blocking, air sealing, and insulation

Preventive Training

In the typical remodeling process, training of subcontractors or crew is often nonexistent or, at 

best, informal. Using a QA approach to an energy upgrade of a cantilevered floor area, training is 

added to communicate how to correctly install systems outlined in the scope of work. Training 

can be effectively accomplished with a variety of approaches, but a picture-based approach to

training has yielded remarkable results in the Research Center’s National Housing Quality 

(NHQ) program and work with trades. The following picture-based training process and template 

can be used in a focused training lesson for field crews. It can be used as a template for any 

remodeling project picture-based training and/or adapted for use in other climates. This approach 

is designed for use to prevent quality issues on any energy efficiency remodeling project and is 

based on the NAHB Research Center’s Hotspot Implementation Guide and Tools3

The training process using a QA process to prevent construction issues in energy efficient 

remodels includes the following: 

. 

1. Review remodeling plans to highlight key specifications and installation steps for training. 

For this example, the two training items include blocking cantilevered floors and air 

sealing after blocking. 

2. Add each training item to the inspection process and inspection form as a specific, standalone item. 

For this example, each of the two items will be addressed individually. 

3. Develop a training format (i.e. training sheet, video etc.) to address each item.

For this example, two training sheets were developed, one to address each item (see Figure 

9 and Figure 10). 

4. Implement the training to all workers and inform them that there will be inspecting for and 

tracking of the success of each item on every single job. This can be done in the field or in 

a pre-construction meeting. 

 

3 Hotspot Implementation Guide & Tools is available on the NAHB Research Center’s technical website, 

ToolBase.org, at http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/hotspot-implementation. 
21

For this example, the training sheets document the training per the training instructions

(see Figure 11). 

5. Inspect every job, every time, for each item to successfully implement a QA approach. 
22 

Training Sheet: Blocking cantilevered floors

Install blocking between floor joists over cantilevered floors

Instalar blocking en los pisos cuando sobresalen espacios no condicionados

Right / Bueno

Wrong / Malo

Figure 9. Cantilevered floor blocking training sheet
23 

Training Sheet: Sealing cantilevered floors after blocking

Keep all blocking joints smaller than 1⁄4” and foam seal all cracks

No deje un espacio en el blocking más grande que 1⁄4” y selle bien con un selledor

Right / Bueno

Wrong / Malo

Figure 10. Cantilevered floor air sealing training sheet
24 

Pre-Construction Meeting

Before construction begins, the preconstruction meeting is used to schedule the construction 

process, identify responsibilities, clarify required documentation, and establish inspection points. 

In the typical process, this is an informal meeting between the crew leader and the 

subcontractors. Although inspection points may be established, inspections are typically visual 

only, and conducted at the completion of work. Documentation of completed work, outside of 

signing off on a contract, is not typical. 

With a QA approach for energy remodeling, the preconstruction meeting is an essential element 

for defining the entire construction process. This meeting establishes a clear schedule of who is 

doing what (and when), identifies who will perform inspections, and how inspections will occur 

and be documented. This meeting clarifies the scope of work, installation specifications, and 

inspection procedures. In addition, this meeting can provide training (e.g. how to use a new 

material or installation technique). Examples of this type of training are detailed in Figure 9 and 

Figure 10. In order to ensure that all relevant parties receive the training, it is important to 

document attendance at the meeting/training session as shown in Figure 11. 

Pre-Construction Meeting/Training Instructions:

1. All crew members and all crew leaders must attend session.

2. Crew Leader explains the problem and the proposed solution.

3. Everyone examines both pictures and all notes.

4. Crew leader answers any questions.

5. All crew members and crew leaders sign below.

6. Crew Leader signs and dates bottom of page.

TIME MEETING STARTED: _______a.m./p.m.

ATTENDEES:

(PRINT NAME) (SIGNATURE)

___________________________ ____________________________________

___________________________ ____________________________________

___________________________ ____________________________________

___________________________ ____________________________________

Figure 11. Cantilevered floor training sign-in sheet
25

Construction Process/Installation Procedure

Finally, construction begins. Under the typical remodeling scenario, if the cantilevered floor area 

is remodeled, the construction process typically would include:

1. Remove soffit

2. Replace or repair damaged materials per manufacturer’s installation specifications

3. Insulate piping and ductwork per code

4. Re-insulate with new materials

5. Replace vented soffit with unvented soffit

6. Inspect with crew leader and subcontractors

7. Final approval from homeowner

For a QA approach to an energy upgrade, the construction process is formalized and 

specifications for construction materials are carefully considered. Documentation and several 

inspection points are built into the process to assure that high performance specifications are 

followed. 

Table 5 summarizes the construction process for a sealed and insulated cantilever during a 

remodel, inspection points, and necessary documentation. Photo documentation at critical 

junctures documents installation while allowing work to progress without interruption. This type 

of documentation is valuable in small remodeling jobs in which frequent inspection would 

disrupt progress. Further, the photographic evidence of the quality of the completed work can be 

shared during the final inspection with the homeowner.

For a QA approach to a cantilevered floor remodel, the construction process is as follows: 

Table 5. Construction Process, Inspection Criteria, and Documentation Requirements for the 

Energy Upgrade of a Cantilevered Floor Area

Step Responsible 

Party Key Inspection Criteria Inspection Documentation

1. Remove soffit

2. Remove insulation

Crew 

member #1

Crew 

member #2

• Existence and condition of blocking 

between floor joists above 

supporting wall.

• Condition of insulation (dirt 

indicates air leakage areas)

• Penetrations between conditioned 

space and cantilever area.

• Penetrations between exterior and 

cantilever area. 

• Photo of area above supporting 

wall (typical).

• Photograph condition of 

insulation before removal.

• Photograph typical penetrations. 
26

Step Responsible 

Party Key Inspection Criteria Inspection Documentation

3. Install rigid foam blocking 

between floor joists above 

exterior wall.

4. Install spray foam sealant on 

all four edges around rigid 

foam, fully preventing air 

leakage around foam.

5. Install spray foam along all 

junctures between the 

subfloor the cantilevered 

framing members (e.g., joist 

framing and soffit framing)

6. Use rigid materials to cover 

any penetrations through 

subfloor greater than 1⁄2”. 

Seal with spray foam around 

each penetration.

7. Use rigid foam to cover any 

penetration connecting floor 

area to exterior (e.g., light 

fixture) less than 1⁄2”. Seal 

with spray foam around each 

penetration.

Crew 

member #1

Crew 

member #2

• Rigid foam blocking covers each 

floor joist cavity area above the 

supporting wall completely.

• Gap between rigid foam and 

framing members is less than 1⁄4” 

and fully filled with spray foam.

• Gap around penetrations through 

subfloor are filled with spray foam. 

o No light is visible through gap 

on opposite side

• Gap around penetrations through 

soffit to exterior are filled with 

foam

o No light is visible through gap 

on opposite side

• Visual inspection (contractor) or 

photo document of each 

inspection criteria

• Initial checklist (CM1, CM2, 

contractor)

8. Seal duct seams with mastic 

or foil tape and insulate any 

pipes that cannot be avoided 

in area to at least code level

Crew 

member #1

Crew 

member #2

• Duct seams are fully covered with 

mastic or foil tape

• Supply pipes insulated 

• Exhaust vent duct insulated 

• Visual inspection or photo of 

duct seam sealing

• Visual inspection or photo of 

insulation

• Initial checklist that R-value 

meets code

9. Friction-fit R-30 unfaced 

batt insulation in cavity 

using insulation hangers (e.g. 

wire staves, insulation wire 

hangers, insulation support 

rods, tiger teeth)

Crew 

member #1

Crew 

member #2

• Insulation should be firmly in 

contact with subfloor

• Insulation should be installed to 

Grade 1 specifications 

• Photo of installed fiberglass 

batts

10. Install plywood soffit over 

fiberglass batt insulation. 

Seal seams with silicone 

caulk to provide air barrier. 

11. Trim to match pre-repair 

exterior surface.

12. Paint and caulk exterior of 

repaired areas to match 

existing exterior.

Crew 

member #1

Crew 

member #2

• Plywood soffit should prevent 

airflow between exterior and soffit 

area. 

• Visual inspection or photo of 

installed soffit and sealing

13. Final approval Contractor 

Homeowner

• Photos are reviewed and 

satisfactorily meet scope of work

• Completed checklist
27

Field Inspections 

In a typical remodeling process, a single inspection by the general contractor or the homeowner 

determines when the job is complete. For a QA approach to an energy upgrade, inspection 

criteria and documentation are outlined in the construction process. Field inspections are a key 

part of a quality process that begins with communicating what standards are expected in the 

field, training field crews on how to meet these standards, and continuing with field inspections 

to verify that the standards are met. The inspection process identifies where and when field work 

does not meet these expectations, the effectiveness of the training efforts, and the progress the 

remodeling company as a whole is making in achieving its goal of delivering quality work. 

Developing the inspection process is further outlined in Appendix A. 

While there may be additional field inspections warranted, a QA approach needs at least two 

documented field inspections including a Job Ready and Job Complete inspection. Job Readiness 

verifies that there are no adverse conditions that impact quality and the job is suitable for work to 

begin. This should include availability of manufacturer’s installation instructions and adequacy 

of previous work performed, if applicable, as well as building or environmental conditions that 

can affect quality. Job Completeness verifies that product manufacturer’s installation instructions 

are followed and that workmanship meets expectations, because the inspection should include 

vital items from the installation instructions and measurement of acceptable tolerances. 

To facilitate these field inspections and ultimately document them, a sample Job Ready Checklist 

is shown in Figure 12. The Job Ready Checklist, completed by the site supervisor/general 

contractor and a specific trade contractor/installer, includes all items that must be installed or 

prepared on the jobsite before work can begin. Although items in the Job Ready Checklist are 

not directly under the trade contractor’s/installer’s control, they directly affect the ability to 

successfully and efficiently carry out the work. The corresponding Job Complete checklist is 

shown in Figure 13. The Job Complete Checklist provides the mechanism by which a specific 

trade contractor/installer certifies that work has been completed and the site supervisor/general 

contractor and trade contractor/installer agree that the work meets the expectations set forth in 

the Scope of Work. The example checklists are specific to the insulated and sealed cantilevered 

floor area and follow the inspection criteria and documentation outlined in Table 5. While this is 

very detailed compared with the simplicity of the cantilever floor example, the purpose is to 

demonstrate a comprehensive checklist that can be adapted for more complex remodeling 

projects. 

.
28 

Job Ready Inspection Checklist Example 

Cantilevered Floor Air Sealing and Insulation Job Ready Checklist

(Insert Remodeling/Retrofit Company Name and Logo) 

Company Name: Project: Date of initial inspection:

Company Supervisor Name: Crew Leader Name: Location: 

Instructions: Check box if OK, circle box if correction is needed. Note specific correction action required. Check box when corrected

Crew 

Leader Supervisor Explain Needed Corrections and Date Corrected

Yes Yes Date

Corrected

Job Ready Inspection

1.

(Optional step per sequence of work) “Before” air 

leakage performance testing is completed and 3rd

party report directed to office.

 

2. No unmitigated safety hazards and PPE is worn by 

crew

 

3. All needed materials available onsite  

4. Plans, drawings and or scope are onsite with release 

signed off by customer  

5. All work from previous contractor is completed and 

meets quality company standards, if applicable  

6.

All existing construction exposed for inspection. 

Damage (if any) noted below and photodocumented.

• existing air sealing measures

• existence and condition of existing insulation

• existing penetrations into area (from interior and 

exterior)

• evidence of moisture accumulation or 

deterioration

 

Additional Correction Items (List if noted during any phase of inspection):

 

 

Sign here to acknowledge that all above items have 

been completed

Crew Leader Signature: Date:

Company Supervisor Signature: Date:

Figure 12. Job ready inspection checklist example
29 

Job Complete Inspection Checklist Example 

Cantilevered Floor Air Sealing and Insulation Job Complete Checklist

(Insert Remodeling/Retrofit Company Name and Logo) 

Company Name: Project: Date of initial inspection:

Company Supervisor Name: Crew Leader Name: Location: 

Instructions: Check box if OK, circle box if correction is needed. Note specific correction action required. Check box when corrected

Crew 

Leader Supervisor Explain Needed Corrections and Date Corrected

Yes Yes Date

Corrected

Job Complete Inspection

 1. All concealed damage repaired or replaced per 

contract.  

2. All blocking installed and holes covered.  

 3. 

All cracks and joints filled with spray foam

• around blocking

• subfloor to framing juncture

• penetrations through subfloor 

• penetrations to exterior

• through subfloor (e.g., over screws)

 

4. All piping in cavities wrapped and taped.  

 5. All penetrations and blocking are properly flashed 

and sealed and photo documented.  

 6. Mechanical pipes in space insulated to code values, 

seams sealed  

 7. New insulation installed, secured in all cavities, and 

photo-documented.  

 8. 

Re-build or repair all exterior soffits and surfaces to 

match existing exterior finishes as described in 

contract documents.

 

 9. 

“After” air leakage performance testing is 

completed and report is directed to office. (Optional 

per contract)

 

10. All new materials and company equipment are 

removed from the site.  

11. Site is cleaned up and free of waste materials.  

Additional Correction Items (List if noted during any phase of inspection):

 

 

Sign here to acknowledge that all above items have 

been completed

Crew Leader Signature: Date:

Company Supervisor Signature: Date:

Figure 13. Job complete inspection checklist example
30

Final Verification Procedures and Tests (Post-retrofit)

In a typical remodeling process, final verification procedures and testing following the 

remodeling project are not included. For a QA approach to an energy upgrade, one of steps is to 

verify the results of the project. Often this includes final testing such as a blower door test or 

duct blaster test. In the case of the cantilever floor remodel, an initial blower door test was 

completed. However, a final blower door test was not in the scope of the project because the 

homeowner plans to wait until additional air sealing is completed for the home in subsequent 

remodeling projects. Along with final blower door testing, the homeowner will also consider 

other air sealing testing such as a smoke test per ASTM E1186 to verify that specific areas are 

well sealed. The duct blaster test was also outside the scope of this project as the focus of the 

cantilever floor remodel was on air sealing and insulation. Future work on the HVAC/duct 

system, however, would warrant both initial and final duct blaster testing. 

Quality Assurance and Satisfied Customers

The use of a quality assurance approach for establishing what work needs to be done, who is 

responsible for the work, what tolerances and guidelines must be met, and how the work will be 

documented and inspected is key to getting a job done right the first time. Yet, the process allows 

for any mistakes to be caught sufficiently early to allow corrections if needed. In addition, the 

approach allows for customization based on a remodeler’s business practices and tools needed 

for a specific project. 

Remodelers who set expectations—with customers and contractors—and use a QA approach to 

get the job done right, typically have satisfied customers and good reputations. When this good 

reputation is coupled with a high performance finished project that improves the comfort, 

durability, and energy efficiency, customer satisfaction is unparalleled4

. 

 4 Economics of Quality (New Homes) (NAHB Research Center, 2010) http://www.toolbase.org/BestPractices/Quality-Management/quality-economics

Critical Takeaways: 

1. A QA approach aids in streamlining a project and ensuring customer satisfaction. 

2. A QA approach involves establishing a formal construction process, and identifying who is 

responsible for each task. 

3. In a QA approach, tolerances are established, often for each step in process. 

4. Inspection checklists clearly define what will be inspected and how it will be inspected. 

Multiple points of inspection allow mistakes to be caught in a timely manner. 
31

References

Current Building America and Related Quality Resources

High Performance Scopes of Work: Excavation and Backfill, Poured Basement Foundations, 

Framing, HVAC, Concrete Slab Foundations, Rigid Insulating Sheathing, Vinyl Siding, 

WRB/Housewrap, Wall Assemblies with WRB, Rigid Insulating Sheathing and Vinyl Siding 

(NAHB Research Center) 

http://www.toolbase.org/ToolbaseResources/level3.aspx?BucketID=5&CategoryID=62

Hotspot Implementation Guide and Tools (NAHB Research Center, 2010) 

http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/hotspot-implementation

Economics of Quality (New Homes) (NAHB Research Center, 2010) 

http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/quality-economics

Quality Management and High Performance Home Building: A Case Study of Veridian Homes 

(NAHB Research Center, 2010) http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/QualityManagement/quality-management-high-performance-homes

Quality Assurance Roadmap for High Performance Residential Buildings (Building Science 

Corporation, 2008) http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/qualityassurance-roadmap 

Quality Control Checklist (Building Science Corporation, 2008) http://www.toolbase.org/BestPractices/Quality-Management/quality-control-checklist

Builder’s Challenge Quality Criteria (PNNL, 2009) 

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/challenge/pdfs/BuildersChallengeQualityCriteria_WEB.

pdf

Implementing A Quality Assurance System: A Trade Contractor Case Study (NAHB Research 

Center, 2001) http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/implementingquality-assurance

Quality Assurance System for Wood Framing Contractors (NAHB Research Center, 2000) 

http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/quality-assurance-wood-framingcontractors

Quality Certifications and Awards and Related Tools

NHQ Certified Builder Gap Analysis (NAHB Research Center, 2006) 

http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/nhq-gap-analysis

Gap Analysis for In-house Design, Design Centers, Escrow Departments, Land Development 

Operations, & In-house Mortgage Financing (NAHB Research Center, 2007) 

http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/example-requirements-gapanalysis
32

Sample Builder Quality Assurance Manual (NAHB Research Center, 2007) 

http://www.toolbase.org/Best-Practices/Quality-Management/sample-builder-quality-assurancemanual

NHQ Trade Contractor Requirements (NAHB Research Center, 2007) 

http://www.nahbrc.org/builder/quality/certifiedcontractor.aspx

NHQ Certified Builder Requirements (NAHB Research Center, 2008) 

http://www.nahbrc.org/builder/quality/builderrequirements.aspx

NHQ Award and application http://www.housingzone.com/pb/nhqa

Energy Value Housing Award (EVHA) NAHB Research Center http://www.nahbrc.com/evha/
33

Appendix A: Field Inspections

There are several key items to successful field inspections that are important to quality inspection 

processes. These include:

1. Accountability is a key to the process. Make sure the names of all inspectors and field 

managers and the dates of the inspection(s) are documented on the inspection checklist. A 

good inspection process frequently has more than one person reviewing completed work.

2. Inspect work before it is concealed. If any work will be covered up, inspect it first and 

document the inspection. A process that allows the crew leader to complete a phase and 

move forward after the inspection can work, especially if supervisors can randomly 

inspect work before it is concealed.

3. Training as an inspector: A competent mechanic is not automatically a competent 

inspector. A supervisor or field manager is not automatically a good inspector. Train on 

the inspection process that the company expects and then hold inspectors accountable for 

conducting and accurate and quality-based inspections.

4. Consider making a crew leader responsible for self-inspecting his/her work. With 

supervisory oversight and with measurable or quantifiable company standards it is 

possible to begin the inspection process with an inspection by the crew leader.

5. Defining standards and consistency: A good inspection is based on a measurable and 

reproducible standard. The inspection checklist should reference these standards and 

required work tolerances. Reference or quote the specifics of the agreed upon standard.

6. Follow-up any identified “noncompliance” items with a 2nd (or 3rd) inspection. This 

will help to confirm completion of acceptable quality work. ”

7. Tracking and follow up: Inspecting is part of a quality improvement process. The 

process is important to identify crews and individual workers that need additional training 

and confirm that training has been effective for work that is done right the first time, and 

to create well-defined expectations for quality and accountability for all workers to meet 

those expectations. The goal of inspections is to confirm that work meets or exceeds the 

quality expectations of the company (the standards) 

Based on these key items, it is possible to outline a project-specific inspection process and 

inspection form. The chart of inspections shown in Table 6 is an example to help determine what 

inspections are needed for a specific retrofit project. 
34

Table 6. Inspection Schedule and Criteria Outline

Inspection / Inspector Key Inspection Criteria Documentation

Initial Assessment

Remodeler or 3rd party 

energy professional

• Evaluation of key energy and overall house 

performance criteria including air sealing, 

insulation, HVAC performance

• May include performance testing

Energy Audit Report 

and/or suggested action 

plan with prioritized list 

of retrofit activities 

Homeowner scope 

review / Homeowner 

and supervisor

• Review of major steps, construction 

schedule, including homeowner displacement 

Signed off scope of work 

by homeowner and 

Supervisor 

Demolition and clean-up

Crew Leader or 

Supervisor

• Worker/occupant safety

• Protection of property

• Reuse, recycle or dispose of materials

• Area free of debris and swept

Photograph

Job Ready

Crew Leader or 

Supervisor

• Worker/occupant safety

• Protection of property

• Reuse, recycle or dispose demolition 

materials

• Materials available

• Crew ready

Photograph

Phase One

Crew Leader or 

Supervisor and code 

inspector if app.

• Critical standards to be met

• Job ready standards for next phase or crew

• Area free of debris and clean per contract 

documents

Photograph

Phase two checklist

Phase Two (if 

applicable)

Crew Leader or 

Supervisor and code 

inspector if app.

• Critical standards 

• Job ready standards for next phase or crew

• Area free of debris and clean per contract 

documents

Photograph and Phase 

two checklist

Final Inspection

Supervisor

• Critical standards to be met

• Area free of debris and clean per contract 

documents

Photograph and final 

checklist

Performance Testing

Supervisor or 3rdparty test

• Tests to be conducted Test results

Homeowner Inspection

Homeowner and 

supervisor

• Orientation of the homeowner to maintain 

house and equipment

Homeowner Punch-list 

and sign-off
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