The document summarizes a new guide for designing energy efficient building enclosures for wood-frame buildings. It provides an overview of the guide's contents, which include chapters on building and energy codes, moisture and thermal control strategies, recommendations for highly insulated wall and roof assemblies, and construction detailing. The guide aims to help designers meet current and upcoming energy code requirements with wood-frame construction and provides guidance on enclosure designs for different climate zones in North America.
This is a seminar made on sustainable architecture, containing
INTRODUCTION
NEED
METHODS
ELEMENTS
PRINCIPLES
DESIGN STRATEGY
SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS
RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION
TYPES
EXAMPLES
REFERENCES.
With the façade embodying up to 35% of the construction costs as well as being hugely accountable for the buildings' response to climate change, it has never been so important to understand which façade solutions deliver not only a cost effective and sustainable façade, but also one that is aesthetically pleasing and technically performing.
This is a seminar made on sustainable architecture, containing
INTRODUCTION
NEED
METHODS
ELEMENTS
PRINCIPLES
DESIGN STRATEGY
SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS
RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION
TYPES
EXAMPLES
REFERENCES.
With the façade embodying up to 35% of the construction costs as well as being hugely accountable for the buildings' response to climate change, it has never been so important to understand which façade solutions deliver not only a cost effective and sustainable façade, but also one that is aesthetically pleasing and technically performing.
"Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
SUSTAINABLE: Ecological and economical way of living to make human kind healthy and happy
�ARCHITECTURE :The art and science of making buildings.
Includes technology as well as aesthetics
�
Green Building Envelopes 101 was given as a 2 hour presentation at the National Building Envelope Council Conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba in May 2011.
Thermal comfort conditions of urban spaces in a hot-humid climate of Chiangma...Manat Srivanit
Thermal comfort conditions of urban spaces in a hot-humid climate of Chiangmai city, Thailand
Manat Srivanit 1, Sudarat Auttarat 2
1 Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Thammasat University, Thailand
2 Social Research Institute (SRI), Chiangmai University, Thailand
source: http://www.meteo.fr/icuc9/
India’s announcing an ambitious target of net-zero emissions by 2070 at COP26, the upcoming budget is likely to offer some incentives to encourage construction of Green buildings to achieve India’s Net Zero goals.
Green building rating system equire an integrated design process to create projects that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle: from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition
Participants will:
1. Learn about approaches to identifying, quantifying, and investigating IGU performance problems and how results needed can inform the investigation tools/processes used.
2. Learn about the unique design challenges with replacing structurally glazed IGUs and how those challenges were overcome.
3. Learn how quality assurance procedures can be used to deliver innovative products that meet performance expectations.
4. Learn about how building enclosure repair implementation can be as challenging as figuring out how to repair the damaged building enclosure component.
NBEC 2014 - Flow Exponent Values and Implications for Air Leakage TestingRDH Building Science
- Introduction to air leakage testing
- Relationship between flow and pressure
- Case study building
- Abnormal flow exponents
- Data extrapolation to operating pressures
- Conclusions/Implications
- Further study
"Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
SUSTAINABLE: Ecological and economical way of living to make human kind healthy and happy
�ARCHITECTURE :The art and science of making buildings.
Includes technology as well as aesthetics
�
Green Building Envelopes 101 was given as a 2 hour presentation at the National Building Envelope Council Conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba in May 2011.
Thermal comfort conditions of urban spaces in a hot-humid climate of Chiangma...Manat Srivanit
Thermal comfort conditions of urban spaces in a hot-humid climate of Chiangmai city, Thailand
Manat Srivanit 1, Sudarat Auttarat 2
1 Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Thammasat University, Thailand
2 Social Research Institute (SRI), Chiangmai University, Thailand
source: http://www.meteo.fr/icuc9/
India’s announcing an ambitious target of net-zero emissions by 2070 at COP26, the upcoming budget is likely to offer some incentives to encourage construction of Green buildings to achieve India’s Net Zero goals.
Green building rating system equire an integrated design process to create projects that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle: from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition
Participants will:
1. Learn about approaches to identifying, quantifying, and investigating IGU performance problems and how results needed can inform the investigation tools/processes used.
2. Learn about the unique design challenges with replacing structurally glazed IGUs and how those challenges were overcome.
3. Learn how quality assurance procedures can be used to deliver innovative products that meet performance expectations.
4. Learn about how building enclosure repair implementation can be as challenging as figuring out how to repair the damaged building enclosure component.
NBEC 2014 - Flow Exponent Values and Implications for Air Leakage TestingRDH Building Science
- Introduction to air leakage testing
- Relationship between flow and pressure
- Case study building
- Abnormal flow exponents
- Data extrapolation to operating pressures
- Conclusions/Implications
- Further study
Window Standards Compared: NFRC, ISO and Passive House RatingsRDH Building Science
This slide deck was presented by Brittany Hanham at Passive House North Conference 2013.
Outline:
- North American and Passive House window rating systems
- Example simulation results
- What this means and things to be aware of
A deterioration model for establishing an optimal mix of time-based maintenance (TbM) and Condition-Based Maintenance (CbM) for the Enclosure System.
Participants will:
1. Learn the two types of asset deterioration models
2. Explore the correlations when the two deterioration models are overlaid
3. Identify six different phases in the maintenance of an asset
4. Identify further model development needs
Conventional Roofing Assemblies: Measuring the Thermal Benefits of Light to D...RDH Building Science
Presentation Overview:
• Conventional Roofing Designs
and Current Issues
• Conventional Roofing Field
Monitoring and Research
Program
• Measured Insulation Performance
• Selecting Roofing Membrane
Color and Insulation Strategy for
Optimum Energy Efficiency
• Case Studies
Overview:
- Background
- Net Zero Building Enclosure Targets & Potential Savings
- Interior and Exterior Building Enclosure Retrofit Strategies
- Hygrothermal Considerations & Risk Assessment Evaluation Methodology
- Economics of Net Zero Building Enclosure Retrofits
Presentation Outline:
- Gravity support systems
- Design criteria and thermal performance requirements
- Canadian energy codes
- Nominal vs. Effective R-Values
- Thermal modeling and effective
- R-values
- Conclusions
State of the Art of Multi-Unit Residential Building Airtightness: Test Procedures, Performance, and Industry Involvement
Outline:
- Airtightness Test Procedures & Equipment
- Worldwide Regulatory Requirements & Targets for Airtightness
- Airtightness of Multi-Unit Residential Buildings
- Air Barrier Systems
- Industry Preparedness for Airtightness Testing
- Background – Energy Use in Multi-Unit Residential Buildings
- Deep Energy Retrofit Case Study
- Measurement & Verification of Energy Savings
- Other Monitoring Results
Airtightness of Large Buildings - Where We're At and Where We're GoingLorne Ricketts
Whole building airtightness performance and testing standards are gaining traction throughout North America with various jurisdictions now including them as part of the energy codes and standards. This presentation looks at the state of the industry with respect to airtightness based on a database of over 500 airtightness tests, and provides information on industry trends.
Energy Simulation of High-Rise Residential Buildings: Lessons LearnedRDH Building Science
This presentation covers lessons learned from an energy study of over 60 architecturally representative mid to high rise multi-unit residential buildings (MURBS) in BC.
Christy Love, EIT LEED AP BD+C, is a Senior Project Engineer at RDH Building Science. This presentation was given at the 2016 Passive House Northwest Conference.
The North Park Passive House, a 6-unit strata project located in Victoria BC, was occupied in September 2015. It is the first market strata-title certified Passive House development in Canada.
While well-established elsewhere, the potential benefits of Passive House and other low energy design approaches are not as well understood in Canada, and there are limited data on the actual performance of low energy residential buildings in various Canadian climates.
To address this gap, RDH, in partnership with the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the Homeowner Protection Office of BC Housing, and FP Innovations, is undertaking detailed quantitative and qualitative performance measurement of the North Park Passive House. The intent of this research is to develop a comprehensive case study for a Passive House project in the coastal BC climate.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the scope of the research and what we hope to learn from it.
- Understand preliminary results about how the building is performing in terms of comfort, air quality, and energy use, via measured data collected within select suites and qualitative interviews with occupants.
- Understand and interpret preliminary results of how the building enclosure is performing.
- Learn tips and share lessons learned about undertaking this type of research.
NBEC 2014 - Airflow in Mid to High-rise Multi-Unit Residential BuildingsRDH Building Science
Introduction & Background
- Testing and Measurement Program
- Measured Ventilation Rates (PFT testing)
- Cause of Ventilation Rates
- Extension of Study Findings
- Conclusions & Recommendations
Presented at the BCBEC Building Smart with Safe and Durable Wall Assemblies Symposium Feb 2, 2017, by Lorne Ricketts.
Ever increasing thermal performance requirements for wood-frame walls have had a dramatic impact on how we build walls. To meet these targets, exterior insulation is becoming more and more common, and methods to support the cladding are required that are strong and rigid, yet do not create significant thermal bridging through the insulation. This presentation discusses the results of recent structural testing of various different arrangements on long fasteners through exterior insulation as a method of supporting cladding while limiting thermal bridging.
WoodWorks 2013 Vancouver - Energy-Efficient Building Enclosure Design Guideli...Graham Finch
Presentation from the 2013 Vancouver Woodworks Conference (October 29, 2013). Covers an overview of the considerations for energy-efficient wood frame building enclosures while outlining the content of a new guideline document published by FP Innovations "Guide for Designing Energy Efficiency Building Enclosures for Wood-Frame Multi-Unit Residential Buildings in Marine to Cold Climate Zones in North America"
High Performance Walls - Solutions for Thermal BridgingGraham Finch
Presentation from Philadelphia and Baltimore BEC events on September 15, 2015 on High Performance Walls and Solutions to address thermal bridging with claddings. Available cladding attachment solutions including various clip systems are presented and compared
High performance buildings & rating toolsKen Thomson
High performance buildings are challenging to design, there is no one size fits all solution. The challenge requires an integrated and collaborative approach to the building design. understanding compliance and rating tools helps to give design guidance on the benchmarks that can be achieved. This discussion was focused on how much impact the façade design has on the building performance and how to apply rating tools to the design process.
Building owners have more questions and requests on how to integrate renewable power into their buildings. And as the Smart Grid evolves, integration of renewable energy sources is increasing. Possible renewable power technologies include solar, wind, geothermal, and biomass. As the technologies that support increasing use of renewable energy mature, the codes and standards that define their use, interconnection, and interoperability with the grid must keep pace with them. Engineers involved with integrating renewable power into buildings must be aware of the applicable energy codes and standards and how to properly implement them into the building design. They must also evaluate the design objectives, materials, systems, and construction from all perspectives. It’s critical for designers to assess the design for cost, quality of life, expansion capabilities, efficiencies, impact on environment, creativity, and productivity.
Building Enclosures of the Future - Building Tomorrow's Buildings TodayRDH Building Science
- Trends and Drivers for Improved Building Enclosures & Whole Building Energy Efficiency
- New BCBC & VBBL Building & Energy Code Updates
- Effective R-values & Insulation Behaviour
- Highly Insulated Walls – Alternate Assemblies & New Cladding Attachment Strategies
- Highly Insulated Low-Slope Roofs – Insulation Strategies & New Research into Conventional Roofs
Presentation Outline:
- What are "Super-Insulated" buildings and what are the drivers?
- Thermal bridging- problems and solutions
- Designing of highly insulated walls - insulation placement & durability considerations
- Super-Insulated wood-frame building enclosure design guide
Find out how wood construction can contribute to a sustainable building. Using scientifically based life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology, this session demonstrates why wood products are better for the environment than other materials in terms of indicators such as global warming potential and resource depletion. LCA is becoming the world standard for evaluating the sustainability of materials and assemblies and improving environmentally based decision-making. See why wood from well-managed forests and plantations is a good choice when it comes to climate change.
Rising To The Challenge: Toward Carbon Neutral BuildingsTom Hootman
Presentation given at the 2009 Eco El Paso Conference. Presentation includes building blocks for carbon neutral design and a few case studies. A good primer for the 2030 Challenge.
Achieving the Passive House criteria on a high-rise, concrete-framed building located in Vancouver, BC.
Presented at the 2017 NAPHN Conference and Expo by Eric Catania, M.Eng., BEMP, CPHD, LEED AP BD+C, PHI Accredited Passive House Certifier.
Impact of Heating and Cooling of Expanded Polystyrene and Wool Insulations on...RDH Building Science
The thermal expansion and contraction of insulation products within conventional roof assemblies has been identified as a potential performance concern in the roofing industry. This movement can create gaps between insulation boards, which can short-circuit the insulation with respect to heat flow, and in conventional roof assemblies where the insulation also provides the substrate for the roofing membrane, insulation movement can also adversely affect the durability and integrity of the membrane and roofing system. Problems with creasing and ridging of membranes have been observed in the field, along with stress concentrations and holes around fixed penetrations. In particular, field observations have indicated that shrinkage of expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation products may put undue stress on the roof membranes and could potentially affect the durability of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) roof membranes.
To investigate these industry concerns regarding the potential effect of dimensional movement of EPS insulation on the performance of SBS membranes, laboratory testing was performed on conventional roof specimens in a purpose-built climate chamber. The roof assemblies were cooled and heated to evaluate the amount of insulation movement, and to then observe the impact of these temperature cycles on the roof assembly. This portion of the investigation in to this issue focused on recreation of the observed field condition (e.g., wrinkled membrane), and direct comparison of the relative performance of different insulation types as a first step towards determining the cause of the observed in-service wrinkling.
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Challenges Related to Measuring and Reporting Temperature-Dependent Apparent ...RDH Building Science
In North America, the apparent thermal conductivity (and R-value) of building insulation materials is commonly reported at a mean temperature of 24°C (75°F) and practitioners typically assume thermal properties remain constant over the range of temperatures that are experienced in building applications. Researchers have long known and acknowledged the fact that the thermal properties of most building insulation materials change with temperature. There has been little more than academic reason to measure and report this effect. However, interest in temperature-dependent thermal performance has grown with the introduction of new materials, increasing concerns regarding energy performance, and the development of tools transient energy, thermal, and hygrothermal simulation software packages (e.g. Energy Plus, HEAT2, WUFI etc.) that have capacity to account for temperature-dependence. Continue reading by clicking the Download link to the left.
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Guideline for the Two-Dimensional Simulation of Spandrel Panel Thermal Perfor...RDH Building Science
While the approach to thermal simulation of vision glazing areas is well documented by groups such as the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), the approach to simulate opaque spandrel panels is not similarly documented. Furthermore, spandrel assemblies are substantially different from conventional
opaque wall assemblies (i.e., concrete, steel stud, wood stud, etc.). To address this industry need, RDH in partnership with the Fenestration Association of BC (FENBC) and funding from BC Housing has developed a procedure to determine spandrel panel U-factors using common industry tools and familiar methods. The methodology includes consideration of various spandrel panel arrangements and builds off the existing NFRC 100 simulation methodology. The objective of this procedure is to document a reasonably accurate and practical approach to determine opaque spandrel area U-values with higher precision and uniformity. This allows for both the accurate representation of these systems with regards to code compliance and
energy modelling, as well as the fair comparison of competing products.
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
State of the Art Review of Unvented Sloped Wood-Framed Roofs in Cold ClimatesRDH Building Science
Typical residential house construction in North America has long had vented attics above living space with the insulation and air control layer at the ceiling plane of the living space. Except for documented wintertime condensation issues in cold climates, such vented attics generally perform quite well, provided that they are ventilated adequately and air leakage from the interior is prevented. However, architects and designers are moving away from empty attics by using the attic space as conditioned storage or bonus rooms, or by designing larger interior volumes with cathedral ceilings. The practical challenges of ventilating cathedralized attics and cathedral ceilings have been significant, both because of increased geometrical complexity and because of the number of penetrations typically required for services.
Spray foam has been used successfully in tens of thousands of unvented roof assemblies throughout North America but some concerns remain in the building industry that these assemblies are inferior to ventilated roof assemblies. The National Building Code of Canada, in particular, makes it difficult for designers to use unvented roof assemblies, even using designs that are approved in similar building codes in the United States and have been proven to be durable, high-performing options. Over the past decade, the authors have been directly involved with studies of both 0.5 pcf (8 kg/m3) open cell spray foam, and 2.0 pcf (32 kg/m3) closed cell spray foam in unvented roof assemblies in various climates with continuous monitoring of temperature and moisture conditions. This paper provides a literature review of research that has been conducted on wood-framed sloped unvented roof assemblies, but will focus on results from a field monitoring study of sloped unvented wood roofs in partnership with the University of Waterloo, as well as a field survey that opened roofs and removed samples from aged unvented roof assemblies.
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Solutions to Address Osmosis and the Blistering of Liquid-Applied Waterproofi...RDH Building Science
Waterproofing membranes are widely used in the building industry as a barrier for water entry into a building enclosure. Over the past two decades, waterproofing system failure due to osmotic blistering has occurred in some protected membrane/inverted roofing assemblies. Not all waterproofing membrane assemblies are at risk for this process and the authors have developed a test protocol to establish the relative risk level of waterproofing membranes to osmosis. Using this protocol, the osmotic flow rate of SBS, hot rubberized asphalt, PMMA, EPDM, TPO, HDPE, polyurea, asphalt emulsion, asphalt-modified polyurethane, and various other 2-component cold applied membranes was measured to determine a threshold osmotic flow rate for low risk waterproofing membrane systems.
In this research, a wide range of osmotic flow rates were obtained for the various membrane types. Most asphalt-modified polyurethane membranes consistently exhibit osmotic flow rates significantly higher than the low-risk threshold of ~0.0 g/m²/day (typically 1.4 to over 20 g/m²/day) after data corrections, which results in osmotic blistering and premature membrane failures. Some polyurea and asphalt emulsion membranes have flow rates above 2.0 g/m²/day with unknown long-term performance, while most other membranes that were tested have flow rates around 0.0 g/m²/day after data corrections from control samples. To reduce the potential for osmotic blistering over concrete, it is recommended that waterproofing membranes used in inverted roofing assemblies should have an osmotic flow rate near 0.0 g/m²/day when tested using the methodology herein, an inverted wet cup vapour permeance less than that of the substrate (i.e. <0.1 US Perms on a concrete substrate), and minimal long-term water absorption.
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Improvements in building efficiency can significantly reduce carbon emissions and are an intrinsic component in greenhouse gas reduction targets. The Passive House concept provides a framework for high-performance building that is growing in popularity in Canada, and particularly in the Pacific Northwest. The Passive House standard requires its buildings to achieve specific performance values for heating energy use intensity, total energy use intensity, spatial temperature variation, heat recovery ventilation performance and air leakage rate. The promised co-benefits of Passive Houses include superior thermal comfort and indoor air quality.
Passive House design is not prescriptive and can incorporate many different design aspects. The wall assembly is no exception. This paper evaluates the hygrothermal performance of a deep-stud wall assembly of a Passive House in Victoria, BC, with regards to moisture durability. The concern with deep or doublestud wall assemblies is the combined effects of reduced drying with wall configurations that place moisture sensitive materials in riskier locations. Consequently, enclosure monitoring was undertaken in an occupied six-plex over the period of one year.
The enclosure monitoring sensor packages were installed in strategic locations in the wall assembly to monitor the conditions of the assembly. The assemblies were evaluated based on the results of an empirical mold risk index. The wall assembly appears to perform acceptably, with minor concerns of mold growth on the North wall. Air leakage is a significant concern for cavity insulated walls, but the airtightness requirements of Passive house minimize this risk.
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Using long screws directly through an exterior insulation layer to provide cladding attachment without the use of clips or girts has been shown to be a thermally and structurally efficient solution for more energy efficient wood-frame buildings. However, there is still significant scepticism regarding supporting cladding with only screws when using thicker exterior insulation (>38 mm or >1-1/2″), supporting heavy claddings (>48.8 kg/m² or >10 psf, e.g., stucco, stone veneer), or in particular, using exterior mineral wool insulation, which is perceived as insufficiently rigid in comparison to competing foam plastic insulations such as extruded polystyrene insulation (XPS).
Various studies have been conducted to address this gap in industry knowledge and familiarity to help promote adoption of this cladding attachment method. To build on this existing research, which focused on evaluation of screw bending and potential formation of a truss (created by the screw and compression of the insulation), this study focuses on the impact of the compressive strength of the insulation, large thicknesses of insulation (~305 mm or ~12″), and fastener embedment depth (framing member vs. sheathing only) on the structural performance of these systems. The impact of these parameters was evaluated in a laboratory condition using a custom-built apparatus to mechanically imitate cladding (gravity) load in an isolation from other factors such as various other forces building is subject to. The test specimens were selected so that the impact of these parameter can be evaluated by cross comparison. This study found that when 8.0 mm (5/16″) fasteners, fully embedded in to the structural framing, were subjected to common cladding load (9.1 kg or 25 lb per fastener) the deflection observed was typically less than 0.64 mm (0.025″), which is likely insignificant considering potential moisture shrinkage that could be anticipated in a typical one-storey wood-frame construction (10 mm or 3/8″).
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Interest in taller wood buildings utilizing cross laminated timber (CLT), nail laminated timber (NLT), and structural glued laminated timber (glulam) is growing rapidly in Canada and the United States. On the west coast, recently completed projects including the 97 foot tall, 6-story Wood Innovation and Design Center (WIDC) in Prince George, BC, the 180 foot tall, 18-story UBC Brock Commons Tallwood House in Vancouver, BC, and the upcoming 12-story Framework project in Portland, OR, have captured the attention of the international construction industry. Several other taller wood buildings are on the horizon and feasibility studies are currently being performed for mass timber buildings over 30 stories in height. Tall wood buildings have been a reality in Europe longer than North America, and there is much to learn from the European experience. However, conditions unique to the North American construction industry create many challenges for the design team in demonstrating the safety, durability, and economics of these buildings, all while forming public perception of wood at taller heights.
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Moisture Buffering and Ventilation Strategies to Control Indoor Humidity in a...RDH Building Science
Control of the indoor humidity in a marine climate is a challenge, especially under operating conditions where high indoor humidity is a norm. Outdated mechanical equipment, inefficient ventilation design, and occupants’ life styles are some of the contributing factors to high indoor humidity. In this field experimental study, the moisture buffering potential of unfinished drywall in reducing daily indoor humidity peaks, coupled with various ventilation strategies are investigated. Two identical test buildings exposed to real climatic conditions in Burnaby, BC are monitored under varying ventilation rates and schemes.
The interior of the test building is clad with unfinished drywall, while the control building is covered with polyethylene, which has negligible moisture buffering. In this way, the moisture buffering potential of drywall under four test cases is isolated. Under the test cases, the indoor air quality in terms of CO2 concentration, and ventilation heat loss of the two buildings are also evaluated.
The results show that the moisture buffering potential of drywall effectively regulates indoor humidity peaks, and maintains relative humidity levels within acceptable thresholds, when coupled with adequate ventilation as recommended by ASHRAE. When coupled with time-controlled and demand-controlled ventilation schemes, the moisture buffering effect of drywall shows competing benefits.
Presented at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology
Energy and Indoor Air Quality Impacts of DOAS Retrofits in Small Commercial B...RDH Building Science
Heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) typically accounts for 30% to 50% of commercial building energy use. Small commercial buildings often use oversized and inefficient rooftop air handling units (RTUs) to provide both air conditioning and ventilation. A conversion strategy to reduce energy
consumption is the installation of a very high efficiency dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) to provide ventilation with a separate heat pump system to provide heating and cooling. Decoupling the heating and cooling from ventilation allows for improved energy efficiency and control of space conditions. Upgrades to mechanical systems can also improve the indoor air quality (IAQ) and comfort through control of carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations, dry bulb temperature, and relative humidity (RH).
A pilot study of eight buildings was conducted to investigate the potential benefits of replacing existing RTUs with high efficiency heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and air source heat pumps in the Pacific Northwest. This report contains results for a subset of seven buildings for which data is available. The
building energy use before and after the conversion was determined using utility data, energy modeling and monitoring. Indoor environmental conditions were measured at hourly intervals for up to one year postconversion using CO2, temperature, and RH sensors. The data was analyzed to determine changes in energy use and IAQ before and after the conversion.
This paper presents the pilot building results pre- and post-conversion. While several factors need to be in place to ensure optimal performance and cost effectiveness, the pilot shows that replacing RTUs with DOAS systems in existing commercial buildings can both reduce energy use as well as improve indoor environmental conditions. This conversion type is viable for a wide variety of building types and scale-up of the retrofits has the potential to significantly improve a previously underserved segment of the building stock.
Presented by James Montgomery at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Energy Consumption in Low-Rise Wood Frame Multi-Unit Residential BuildingsRDH Building Science
A study was performed to understand the energy consumption in low-rise wood-frame multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) and townhouse buildings in south-west British Columbia. Low-rise MURBs are an important building type as they make up a growing proportion of housing stock in cities across North
America.
Through this study, energy data was collected from electricity and gas utilities for 20 low-rise buildings (four storeys and less) and three townhouse complexes. This data was calendarized and weather normalized to determine average annual and monthly energy consumption for analysis and comparison. Two buildings were chosen from the data set for detailed analysis, one low-rise (four-storey) and one townhouse complex. The buildings were selected based on characteristics typical of low-rise MURBs in south-west BC. The purpose of the detailed analysis was to assess opportunities to improve the energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in existing low-rise MURBs using whole building energy modelling.
This paper details the energy consumption trends observed through the data analysis, and the energy modelling results of the buildings chosen for detailed study. These results are also compared to results from a similar study which evaluated the energy use in mid- to high-rise non-combustible MURBs. The work presented here will improve our understanding of energy consumption in low-rise MURBs, and characterize opportunities for energy savings in these buildings.
Presented by Elyse Henderson at the 15th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology
Moisture Uptake Testing for CLT Floor Panels in a Tall Wood Building in Vanco...RDH Building Science
Presented by Rob Lepage at the 2017 Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology.
Cross laminated timber (CLT) and mass timber construction is a promising structural technology that harnesses the advantageous structural properties of wood combined with renewability and carbon sequestering capacities not readily found in other major structural materials. However, as an organic material, mass timber is susceptible to biodeterioration, and when considered in conjunction with increased use of engineered wood materials, particularly in more extreme environments and exposures, it requires careful assessments to ensure long-term performance.
A promising approach towards reducing construction moisture in CLT and other mass timber assemblies is to protect the surfaces with a water-resistant coating. To assess this approach, a calibrated hygrothermal model was developed with small and large scale CLT samples, instrumented with moisture content sensors at different depths, and treated with different types of water resistant coatings exposed to the Vancouver climate. The models were further validated with additional moisture content sensors installed in a mock-up floor structure of an actual CLT building under construction. Biodeterioration studies assessing fungal colonization were undertaken using the modified VTT growth method and a Dose-Response model for decay potential.
The research indicates that CLT and mass timber is susceptible to dangerously high moisture contents, particularly when exposed to liquid water in horizontal applications. However, a non-porous, vapour impermeable coating, when applied on dry CLT, appears to significantly reduce the moisture load and effectively eliminate the risk of biodeterioration. This work strongly suggests that future use of CLT consider applications of a protective water-resistant coating at the manufacturing plant to resist construction moisture. The fungal study also highlights the need for a limit state design for biodeterioration to countenance variance between predicted and observed conditions.
Current Issues with Ventilated Attics
Case Study of Repairs
Attic Roof Hut Research & Monitoring Study – Key Findings
Performance of Potential Solutions
Ongoing Research & Field Trials
Airflow in Mid to High-rise Multi-Unit Residential BuildingsRDH Building Science
Agenda
1. Understand typical ventilation practices for multi-unit residential buildings including corridor pressurization systems.
2. Understand performance issues associated with the ventilation of high-rise multi-unit residential buildings including the impacts of stack effect, wind, and airtightness.
3. Learn about how the theory of airflow relates well to what is
measured in-service, but that the well understood theory is not always taken into account in design.
We have compiled the most important slides from each speaker's presentation. This year’s compilation, available for free, captures the key insights and contributions shared during the DfMAy 2024 conference.
KuberTENes Birthday Bash Guadalajara - K8sGPT first impressionsVictor Morales
K8sGPT is a tool that analyzes and diagnoses Kubernetes clusters. This presentation was used to share the requirements and dependencies to deploy K8sGPT in a local environment.
6th International Conference on Machine Learning & Applications (CMLA 2024)ClaraZara1
6th International Conference on Machine Learning & Applications (CMLA 2024) will provide an excellent international forum for sharing knowledge and results in theory, methodology and applications of on Machine Learning & Applications.
Using recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) for pavements is crucial to achieving sustainability. Implementing RCA for new pavement can minimize carbon footprint, conserve natural resources, reduce harmful emissions, and lower life cycle costs. Compared to natural aggregate (NA), RCA pavement has fewer comprehensive studies and sustainability assessments.
Energy Efficient Building Enclosure Design Guidelines for Wood-Frame Buildings
1. Energy-Efficient Building Enclosure Design
Guidelines for Wood-Frame Buildings
! Graham Finch, MASc, P.Eng
Principal, Building Science Research Specialist
RDH Building Engineering Ltd.
October 29, 2013 – Wood WORKS! Vancouver
3. Program Education Credit Information
Canadian Wood Council, Wood WORKS! and the Wood Solutions Fair is a Registered Provider with
The American Institute of Architects Continuing Education System; the Architectural Institute
of British Columbia and the Engineering Institute of Canada. Credit earned on completion of
this program will be reported on behalf of members of each CES provider for those who
complete a participation form at the registration counter. Certificates of Completion for non-
AIA, AIBC or EIC members are available on request.
This program is registered with the AIA/CES for continuing professional education. As such,
it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or
endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling,
using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. Questions related to specific
materials, methods, and services will be addressed at the conclusion of this presentation.
4. Learning Objectives
1. Learn about the new wood-design resource for architects, builders, and
engineers: the Guide for Designing Energy Efficiency Building Enclosures
for Wood-Frame Multi-Unit Residential Buildings
2. Understand how upcoming building and energy code changes will
impact typical wood-frame construction practices, and learn the best
strategies to design, insulate, air-seal, and detail new wood frame wall
and roof assemblies.
3. Learn about the building enclosure design considerations for heavy
timber structures utilizing CLT and post-and-beam components.
4. Understand the importance of “critical barriers” in building enclosure
detailing with examples of wall, roof and window details for highly
insulated wood buildings.
5. Overview
! Background
! Overview of the new Guide for
Designing Energy Efficient
Building Enclosures for
Wood-frame Buildings
! Available as free download
from FP Innovations
6. Evolution Wood-frame Building Enclosure Design Guides
! Original 1999/2011 Wood Frame
Envelopes in the Coastal Climate of
British Columbia - Best Practice Guide
(CMHC)
! Emphasis on moisture control on the
west coast
! 2011 Building Enclosure Design Guide –
Wood-frame Multi-Unit Residential
Buildings (HPO)
! Emphasis on best practices, moisture and
new energy codes
! 2013 Guide (FP Innovations)
! Focus on highly insulated wood-frame
assemblies to meet current and upcoming
energy codes
! Passive design and green buildings
7. Why a New Building Enclosure Guide?
! Energy Codes across North America have
incrementally raised the bar to the point where
conventional wood-frame assemblies (i.e. 2x6 walls)
no longer provide enough insulating value
! Increased awareness of passive design
strategies and green building programs dictate
even higher enclosure performance
! Little guidance on building durable and highly
insulated enclosure assemblies and details
! Desire to build taller and taller more exposed wood-frame
buildings (4-6 stories and higher)
! Increased use of cross-laminated timber & other
engineered wood products dictates alternate
assemblies
8. What Types of Buildings & Structures is the Guide For?
! Multi-Unit Residential
Buildings are the
focus of the guide
(and one of most
challenging building
types)
! Relevant for other
building types as well
utilizing platform
framing, cross
laminated timber,
wood frame infill, &
post and beam.
! Also applies to houses
9. Where is the Guide Applicable
! North American Guide
! Marine, Cold and Very
Cold Climate Zones
! Energy Code Climate
Zones 4 through 7
! Details used as examples
are west coast focused
(i.e. rainscreen)
! Guidance can also be
applied to other climate
zones (i.e. Far-North or
Southern US) with
engineering judgement &
local experience
10. Overview: What is in the Guide
! Chapter 1: Introduction
! Context of Guide
! Chapter 2: Building and
Energy Codes across
North America
! Canadian Building and
Energy Codes
! US Building and Energy
Codes
! Performance Rating
Systems & Green
Building Programs
! Differences between
NECB & ASHRAE 90.1
11. Overview: What is in the Guide
! Chapter 3: Moisture, Air and Thermal Control
! Building as a System
! Climate Zones
! Interior Climate, HVAC Interaction
! Critical Barrier Concept
! Control of Rainwater Penetration
! Control of Air Flow
! Controlling Condensation
! Construction Moisture
! Controlling Heat Flow and Insulation
! Whole Building Energy Efficiency
! Computer Simulation Considerations for Wood-frame
Enclosures
12. Overview: What is in the Guide
! Chapter 4: Energy Efficient Wall and Roof Assemblies
! Above Grade Wall Assemblies
• Split Insulated, Double Stud/Deep Stud, Exterior Insulated
• Infill Walls for Concrete Frame
! Below Grade Wall Assemblies
• Interior and Exterior Insulated
! Roof Assemblies
• Steep Slope & Low Slope
! Chapter 5: Detailing
! 2D CAD (colored) and 3D build-sequences for various
typical enclosure details
! Chapter 6: Further Reading & References
13. Chapter 2: Building and Energy Codes
! Review of effective R-values &
Consideration for Thermal Bridging
! Energy Use in Wood-frame MURBs
! Enclosure R-value Targets and
Airtightness Requirements
! Canadian Building Codes
• 2010 NBC
• 2011 NECB
• ASHRAE 90.1 (2001 through 2010
versions)
! US Buildings Codes
! Performance Rating and Green
Building Programs
14. Canadian Energy Codes –NECB 2011 vs ASHRAE 90.1
Climate
Zone
and
HDD(°C)
Wood-‐frame,
above-‐grade
wall
Wood-‐frame
roof,
flat
or
sloped:
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
Zone
4:
<3000
HDD
18.0
(3.17)
25.0
(4.41)
Zone
5:
3000
to
3999
HDD
20.4
(3.60)
31.0
(5.46)
Zone
6:
4000
to
4999
HDD
23.0
(4.05)
31.0
(5.46)
Zone
7a:
5000
to
5999
HDD
27.0
(4.76)
35.0
(6.17)
Zone
7b:
6000
to
6999
HDD
27.0
(4.76)
35.0
(6.17)
Zone
8:
>7000
HDD
31.0
(5.46)
40.0
(7.04)
NECB 2011
Climate
Zone
Wood-‐frame,
above-‐grade
wall
NECB has higher
effective R-value
requirements
Wood-‐frame
roof—insulation
entirely
above
deck
Wood-‐frame
roof—attic
and
other
Effective
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
Nominal
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
Effective
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
Nominal
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
Effective
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
Nominal
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
Zone
1
(A
&
B)
11.2
(2.0)
13.0
(2.3)
20.8
(3.7)
20.0
ci
(3.5
ci)
37.0
(6.5)
38.0
(6.7)
Zone
2
(A
&
B)
11.2
(2.0)
13.0
(2.3)
20.8
(3.7)
20.0
ci
(3.5
ci)
37.0
(6.5)
38.0
(6.7)
Zone
3
(A,
B,
&
C)
11.2
(2.0)
13.0
(2.3)
20.8
(3.7)
20.0
ci
(3.5
ci)
37.0
(6.5)
38.0
(6.7)
Zone
4
(A,
B,
&
C)
15.6
(2.7)
13.0
+
3.8
ci
(2.3
+
0.7
ci)
20.8
(3.7)
20.0
ci
(3.5
ci)
37.0
(6.5)
38.0
(6.7)
Zone
5
(A,
B,
&
C)
19.6
(3.5)
13.0
+
7.5
ci
(2.3
+
1.3
ci)
20.8
(3.7)
20.0
ci
(3.5
ci)
37.0
(6.5)
38.0
(6.7)
Zone
6
(A
&
B)
19.6
(3.5)
13.0
+
7.5
ci
(2.3
+
1.3
ci)
20.8
(3.7)
20.0
ci
(3.5
ci)
37.0
(6.5)
38.0
(6.7)
Zone
7
19.6
(3.5)
13.0
+
7.5
ci
(2.3
+
1.3
ci)
20.8
(3.7)
20.0
ci
(3.5
ci)
37.0
(6.5)
38.0
(6.7)
Zone
8
27.8
(4.9)
13.0
+
15.6
ci
(2.3
+
2.7
ci)
20.8
(3.7)
20.0
ci
(3.5
ci)
47.6
(8.4)
49.0
(8.6)
ci
=
continuous
insulation,
where
denoted
ASHRAE 90.1 - 2010
15. ASHRAE 90.1-2010 vs NECB 2011 – Effective Dec 20, 2014
Climate
Zone
Wall
–
Above
Grade:
Min.
R-‐value
(IP)
Roof
–
Sloped
or
Flat:
Min.
R-‐value
(IP)
Window:
Max.
U-‐value
(IP)
8
31.0
40.0
0.28
7A/7B
27.0
35.0
0.39
6
23.0
31.0
0.39
5
20.4
31.0
0.39
4
18.6
25.0
0.42
NECB 2011
ASHRAE 90.1-2010 –
Residential Building
Climate
Zone
Wall
(Mass,
Wood,
Steel):
Min.
R-‐value
(IP)
Roof
(ASc,
Cathedral/Flat):
Min.
R-‐value
(IP)
Window
(Alum,
PVC/fiberglass):
Max.
U-‐value
(IP)
8
19.2,
27.8,
27.0
47.6,
20.8
0.45,
0.35
7A/7B
14.1,
19.6,
23.8
37.0,
20.8
0.45,
0.35
6
12.5,
19.6,
15.6
37.0,
20.8
0.55,
0.35
5
12.5,
19.6,
15.6
37.0,
20.8
0.55,
0.35
*7A/7B
combined in
ASHRAE 90.1
No Zone 4 in
ASHRAE 90.1
16. US Energy Codes – IECC vs ASHRAE 90.1
! Adoption of IECC and
ASHRAE 90.1 varies
by State
! Effective R-value
tables provided
! Airtightness
requirements covered
! Washington State
and Seattle (<0.40
cfm/ft2 @75Pa)
! US Army Corps (<0.25
cfm/ft2 @75Pa)
17. Performance Rating Programs & R-value Targets
! Consideration for “above-code” enclosure
performance & green building programs
! Performance rating and energy modeling
considerations
! Target “high-performance” building
enclosure R-values by climate Zone
Climate
Zones
Wood-‐frame,
above-‐grade
wall
Wood-‐frame
roof—insulation
entirely
above
deck:
Wood-‐frame
roof—attic
and
other:
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
[R-‐value
(RSI)]
Zones
1
to
3:
hot,
cooling
dominated
R-‐16
to
R-‐22
(2.8
to
3.9)
R-‐25
to
R-‐30
(4.4
to
5.3)
R-‐40
to
R-‐50
(7.0
to
8.8)
Zones
4
to
5:
mixed,
heating
and
cooling
R-‐22
to
R-‐28
(3.9
to
4.9)
R-‐30
to
R-‐40
(5.3
to
7.0)
R-‐50
to
R-‐60
(8.8
to
10.6)
Zones
6
to
8:
cold,
heating
dominated
R-‐28
to
R-‐40
(4.9
to
7.0)
R-‐40
to
R-‐50
(7.0
to
8.8)
R-‐60
to
R-‐80
(10.6
to
14.1)
18. Chapter 3: Climate Considerations
! Exterior Climate
! Temperature &
Humidity
! Rainfall
! Interior Climate
! HVAC systems
! Ventilation
! Architectural Form
& Enclosure
Design
19. Chapter 3: Building Science Fundamentals
! Deflection, Drainage,
Drying and Durability
! Wetting and Drying
Mechanisms
! Critical Barriers &
Continuity
! Water Shedding Surface
! Water Resistive Barrier
! Air Barrier
! Thermal Insulation
! Rainwater Penetration
control fundamentals
20. Chapter 3: Air Flow Control – Air Barrier Strategies
! Air Barrier Systems
(Fundamentals, Materials,
Performance, testing)
! Sealed Poly/Sheet
Membranes
! Airtight drywall
! Sprayfoam
! Sealed-Sheathing Approaches
• Unsupported sheet membranes
• Supported sheet membranes with
vertical strapping
• Sandwiched membranes behind
exterior insulation
• Self-Adhered and liquid applied
membranes
! Other Approaches
21. Chapter 3: Condensation Control
! Relative Humidity control
! Maintaining high interior
surface temperatures
! Reducing thermal bridging
! Use of better windows
! Controlling air movement
(air barrier systems)
! Controlling vapour diffusion
(vapour retarders)
22. Managing Construction Moisture & Wood Shrinkage
! Keeping wood dry during
transportation and construction
and limiting built-in moisture
! Careful use of impermeable
materials/membranes
! Controlling and accounting for
wood-frame shrinkage
! Detailing for differential shrinkage
23. Chapter 3: Heat Flow Control & Insulation
! Control of Heat Flow
! Solar Control, Minimizing
Conductive Losses,
Minimizing Air Leakage
! Placement of Insulation
within assemblies
! Wood framing factors
! Types of insulation, R-values
and typical uses
! Thermal bridging and
effective R-values
24. Chapter 3: Effective R-values
! All Energy Codes now consider
effective R-values
! Nominal R-values = Rated R-values of
insulation which do not include
impacts of how they are installed
! For example R-20 batt insulation or
R-10 foam insulation
! Effective R-values include impacts of
insulation installation and thermal
bridges
! For example nominal R-20 batts within
steel studs becoming ~R-9 effective, or
in wood studs ~R-15 effective
29. Cladding Attachment through Exterior Insulation
Longer cladding
Fasteners directly
through rigid
insulation (up to 2”
for light claddings)
Long screws through
vertical strapping and rigid
insulation creates truss
(8”+) – short cladding
fasteners into vertical
strapping Rigid shear block type connection
through insulation, cladding to
vertical strapping
33. Chapter 3: Whole Building Energy Efficiency
! Whole building energy
efficiency considerations
! Impact of Wall, Window and
Roof R-values on overall heat-loss
and energy consumption
! Example calculations of
whole building R-values
! Thermal mass impacts of
Heavy timber structures
! Hygrothermal and Thermal
simulation guidance
35. Exterior & Split Insulated Wood Assemblies
! Wood-frame and Heavy Timber
Building Wall R-value Targets
! R-19.6 ASHRAE 90.1
! R-18.6 to R-20.4 NECB
! Can only get ~R-16 effective
within a 2x6 framed wall
! Industry shift towards split and
exterior insulated wood-frame walls
37. Double/Deep Stud Insulated Walls
! Double 2x4/2x6 stud, single deep 2x10, 2x12, I-Joist etc.
! Common wood-frame wall assembly in many passive houses (and
prefabricated highly insulated walls)
! Often add interior service wall – greater control over airtightness
! Inherently at a higher risk for damage if sheathing gets wet (rainwater,
air leakage, vapor diffusion) – due to more interior insulation
42. CLT Panel Details Requiring Attention – Panel Joints
Sealants, tapes, & membranes applied on either side can’t
address this type of airflow path through the CLT lumber gaps
43. CLT Panel Details Requiring Attention - Parapets
Airflow increased by stack
effect and pressures at parapet
corners
Roofing membrane applied,
path becomes longer – but
doesn’t go away – even if
clamped, sealed etc.
44. CLT Panel Details Requiring Attention - Corners
Airflow path more
convoluted – lower
leakage rates, but still a
consideration
45. Guidance for CLT Assembly Air Barriers
! CLT panels air-tight as a material,
but not as a system
! Recommend use of self-adhered
sheet product air barrier
membranes or thick liquid
applied membrane on exterior of
panels (exterior air-barrier
approach)
! Use of loose-applied sheets
(House-wraps) not generally
recommended – more difficult to
make airtight, perforating
attachment, billowing, flanking
airflow behind membrane
46. CLT Assembly Air Barrier Considerations
! Structural connections can interfere with air-barrier
membrane installation/sequencing and sharp parts can
damage materials (applied before or after)
47. Infill Walls – Post & Beam or Concrete Floor Slabs
Post and Beam with
wood-frame infill
Concrete frame with
wood-frame infill
53. Chapter 5: Detailing
! 2D CAD details (colored)
provided for typical details
for each wall assembly
type (split insulated,
double stud, exterior
insulated) plus some for
infill walls
! 3D sequence details
provided for window
interfacing (split insulated,
double stud, exterior
insulated)
54. Detailing – Materials & Critical Barrier Discussion
! Thermal Continuity
! Air Barrier Continuity
! Water Shedding Surface and Water Resistive Barrier
55. Detailing – From Roof to Grade
! Details provided for
each main wall
assembly included
! Split insulated
! Double Stud
! CLT
! And roofs
! Sloped
! Low-slope
61. Chapter 6: Further Reading, References & Glossary
! Further reading
! Builder & Design Guides
! Building Science Resources
! Energy Codes and Standards
! Other Research Organizations
! Design Software
! References
! Glossary of Building Enclosure, Energy Efficiency and
Wood terms
62. Questions?
! gfinch@rdhbe.com - 604-873-1181
! Guide Available from FP Innovations:
http://www.fpinnovations.ca/ResearchProgram/
AdvancedBuildingSystem/designing-energy-efficient-building-enclosures.
pdf
! Google: energy efficient building enclosure design guide
63. Questions / Comments?
This concludes the:
American Institute of Architects
Architectural Institute of British Columbia
Engineering Institute of Canada
Continuing Education Systems Program
Energy-Efficient Building Enclosure Design Guidelines for Wood-
Frame Buildings