New construction in No. Maine, experts seem to suggest exterior insulation for basement. What type of foam is best and what kind of exterior finish avoids "weed wacker" issues? Would like an exterior finish that can stand up to snow, wind, rain, line drives into the foundation.  Thanks.

A properly insulated basement can help reduce your energy costs.You need to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages, not to mention moisture control.

Ductless FiWi HRV could be the solution to some of the queries highlighted in this thread. We've been using this demand control ventilation method for 2 years and are very satisfied with the results. Each unit has its own CO2 and RH% monitors that continually speed up and slow down the motor speeds depending on the air quality. The FiWi air/air heat exchangers are the most efficient in the world and have the highest return air temperatures of any ducted HRV system we've used.