Building Science News

Building Science: Volume 3, Issue 5

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In this issue

From SEON’s Executive Director

It’s May! We’re focused on strengthening Vermont’s high-performance building community. Our fundraising plan is developing, and we’re making progress on the Registered Apprenticeship Program for Carpenters/High Performance Builders, outlining the budget to secure funding for hands-on training (including tiny house builds!) in high-performance techniques.

An Important Tool for Builders

Ensure your company stands out! Review SEON’s “Interviewing Your Building Professional” questions, developed with Peter Yost, to see how your business aligns with discerning clients.

Pilot Program: Future-Proof Your Building Business

Inspired by Peter Senge’s “learning organization” model, SEON is launching a pilot program to help three forward-thinking residential building companies adopt these principles for improved efficiency and innovation. We’ll develop customized plans based on Senge’s five disciplines, assess the impact, and share your success. SEON’s existing training in building science and crew leadership provides a foundation for this next step. Read more about participating in this pilot program here. To express interest, email guy@buildingscience.org.

You’re Building the Future of Vermont. Thank You. Your incredible support is deeply appreciated.

SEON Welcomes Marketing Powerhouse: Mark Tolson Officially Joins the Team!

After two years of volunteering, Mark Tolson is now our official Marketing & Visual Analyst. His expertise in visual analysis is already enhancing our online presence. Welcome, Mark!

Onward and upward until next month,

Guy Payne
Executive Director

Before and After Project


Brattleboro Brilliance A before and after by Owls Head Builders. This is just one reason why we spotlight our member projects.

Fine Homebuilding Perfection

The Blueprint for Better Builders: Apprenticeships in Residential Construction

Facing the skilled labor shortage? In this article for Fine Homebuilding, Kate Stephenson of HELM Construction explores how residential builders are increasingly using formal apprenticeships to recruit and retain talent, moving beyond informal on-the-job training. These registered programs offer structured paid training and clear advancement, unlike basic labor roles. While daunting for small businesses, Stephenson highlights three diverse companies that successfully launched carpentry apprenticeships. Discover their unique approaches, from custom curriculums to adapting national standards and a “Passivehouse Journeyworker” program. Learn how these structured systems build skills and foster equity. Intrigued by a solution to the labor crunch? ► Read more here!

Our Members – In Action

Timber Frame Screen Porch Let’s go celebrate the warm weather here. ► see more projects from Mathes Hulme Builders

A Party Barn By Sustainable Design. ► See more of the Sustainable Design projects.

Oh the Details The River View Kitchen. ► see more projects from Mindel and Morse Builders

The Madrigal Inn Rockingham’s Bed & Breakfast Inn ► see more projects by All Seasons Construction Corp

Dry Stone Sunken Garden It’s not every project that gets its own sacred ritual spot, but in this case the stars really did align. ► Read more at Apple Tree Builders

Oxford Road Bathroom Touches of green in New Hampshire. ► see more at Earthshare Construction

Project: Bluetime Collaborative

The open areas of our Perforated Metal allow natural light to add depth and texture to architectural designs. M.Nichols Co. ► Read more at Bluetime Collective

Breaking Ground Construction is underway with the latest housing project at Safford Commons in Woodstock, VT. ► Read more at GPI Construction, Inc.

Interesting Links

Events

Beyond R-Value: Wood Fiber Insulation in Multifamily Construction

May 29, 2025 | Zoom – Webinar

Time: 11:00am

Join us for the next session of Beyond R-Value, where we dive into the role of wood fiber insulation in multifamily construction. Often associated with single-family homes, TimberHP products, TimberFill, and TimberBatt are also a smart choice for commercial and multifamily buildings. This expert-led discussion will explore the thermal and acoustic performance benefits of wood fiber, as well as real-world insights from projects using TimberHP products. Hear from industry leaders at Avesta Housing and Kaplan Thompson Architects as they share perspectives from the field and discuss the why, how, and what’s next of incorporating wood fiber insulation at scale.

Register Here

2025 Vermont Forest Industry Summit

June 19, 2025 | Bolton Valley Resort Bolton Vermont

High-Performance Builders, don’t miss the 2025 Vermont Forest Industry Summit! Keynote speaker Alan Organschi, a global thought leader on sustainable building and mass timber, will inspire you with insights on using wood to replace carbon-intensive materials.

Explore the “Innovation in our Forest Economy” theme, uncovering new wood technologies and applications crucial for high-performance construction. Learn about resilient forests and responsive structures, directly aligning with your commitment to sustainability.

Connect with industry leaders and discover cutting-edge advancements in wood products that can enhance your projects. This summit offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of the sustainable materials landscape. Join us to innovate and build a greener future!

HELM Meet-Up Collaborate with colleagues across the country to host casual, fun, and free meet-ups for women, trans, & non-binary folks in construction and the trades. Join HELM to connect, share experiences, and build a supportive community.

June 24 – Waitsfield, VT

Time: 5:00-7:00pm

Thank you, Members