https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/rss/2735 en-us http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/91544 Mon, 01 May 2023 01:01:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/91544-more-than-just-a-roof http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/91405 Wed, 01 Mar 2023 00:01:00 -0500 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/91405-ceu-high-performance-cold-storage-roof-design Rainwater mitigation and insulating goals can both be achieved in low-slope or flat roofs with optimized, project-specific tapered polyisocyanurate insulation panel designs and systems.

]]> http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/91075 Mon, 03 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/91075-ceu-go-with-the-flow-tapered-insulation-fundamentals When Very Severe Hail requirements were introduced to the roofing industry, it was as if all hail was about to break loose!

]]> http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90923 Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90923-designing-for-the-impacts-of-very-severe-hail For roofs with large surface areas, the potential for large overburden installations, such as solar, vegetative roofing, or amenity decks can be exceptional.

]]> http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90727 Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90727-ceu-all-of-the-above-unburdening-overburden-considerations-for-commercial-roofing Sustainability is too often seen as an afterthought to how we design and construct buildings.

]]> http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90586 Fri, 11 Mar 2022 14:49:43 -0500 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90586-commercial-roofing-as-a-sustainability-benefit-multiplier http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90285 Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90285-roofs-for-cold-storage-buildings Cover-Photo-BNP-Media.jpg High-performing cold storage roof assemblies often begin with mechanically attached polyiso (shown here) under an adhered coverboard and an adhered single-ply membrane. Photo courtesy of GAF. How breakthroughs in weather-resistant barriers can improve occupant well-being in all climates.

]]> http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90140 Thu, 02 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90140-ceu-advanced-threats-met-with-advanced-technology 20180629_110400_nologos_flat.jpg WRBs are vital to the construction of new residential and light commercial, multifamily, and mixed-use buildings to achieve occupant well-being, safety and comfort. New WRB technology can meet and exceed evolving standards for healthier buildings and homes. All photos courtesy of TYPAR James.Kirby@Siplast.com (James R. Kirby AIA) http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90134 Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/90134-ceu-low-slope-roofing-air-barriers-and-vapor-retarders http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/87651 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/87651-ceu-green-roofs-integrating-blue-and-gray Green-roof-integration-2.jpg Building the ideal green roof is not always about maximizing vegetation. It is often about maximizing rainwater storage and functional space that can be enjoyed. Green-roof-integration-7.jpg Vegetation is often interspersed with paved or other hardscaped areas on a green roof, though strong water retention is still possible with the right design. Green-roof-integration-3.jpg There are four main drainage material types used in green roof construction: cuspated sheets, entanglement sheets, granular material and structural drainage. Green-roof-integration-9.jpg Cuspated sheets, or “molded drainage,” provide built-in storage for water via molded cups in the material. They are categorized into drainage plates and drainage mats.  Green-roof-integration-10.jpg Entanglement drainage may not have the same level of sheet flow as molded drainage, but it is easier to install and offers some degree of capillarity. Green-roof-integration-11.jpg Granular drainage material is comprised of porous, expanded shale that can absorb water and provide a good growing environment for roots. Green-roof-integration-12.jpg Drainage conduits are arranged into networks that mitigate slow flow in granular drainage layers and direct water into roof drains. Green-roof-integration-17.jpg The blue roof allows you to balance vegetation, hardscape and water-retention needs through a customized, multilayered structure. James.Kirby@Siplast.com (James R. Kirby AIA) http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89868 Tue, 01 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89868-ceu-wind-design-for-roof-systems-and-asce-7 The parapet is so much more than the intersection of roof and wall. It’s also the junction where building aesthetics meets structural performance, air and moisture management, energy efficiency, construction trade sequencing and operational maintenance.

]]> http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/88782 Wed, 05 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/88782-ceu-at-the-roof-edge-water-air-thermal-and-vapor-control http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89718 Thu, 01 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89718-ceu-moisture-durability-roofing-and-green-standards http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89371 Mon, 02 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89371-ceu-commercial-rooftop-solar-design-explained http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89233 Wed, 02 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89233-ceu-evaluating-real-world-performance-of-field-aged-tpo-roofs James.Kirby@Siplast.com (James R. Kirby AIA) http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89150 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/89150-ceu-roofs-for-cold-storage-buildings http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/88869 Wed, 25 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/88869-ceu-the-architects-guide-to-specifying-sustainable-single-ply-roofing-membranes-nsfansi-347 mdavis@soprema.us (Matt Davis) http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86618 Mon, 13 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86618-ceu-sbs-modified-bitumen-roofing sBS modified bitumen What you need to know about SBS-modified bitumen roofing. CEU2_900x550.jpg What do all four of these items have in common? They provide safety and protection through redundancy, much like a multi-ply roofing system. sBS modified bitumen By 2018, data collected and combined from the Single-Ply Roofing Industry (SPRI) and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) showed SBS-modified bitumen had dropped to 12 percent of the market share while single-ply jumped to 83 percent. CEU4_900x550.jpg U.S. low-slope roof history. Heat transfer with minimal insulation—Pre-WWII. When there is minimal insulation installed near the roofing surface, heat transfers more smoothly to the structure, reducing the heat load on the roofing membrane. CEU5_900x550.jpg Heat transfer with significant insulation—Post-WWII. The addition of more insulation near the roof means that heat cannot transmit as well to the structure, and therefore the temperature differential experienced by the roofing membrane is much higher. CEU6_900x550.jpg Asphalt is the key ingredient. When crude oil is refined and distilled, there are a large number of byproducts that result. The one we are most interested in from a roofing perspective is asphalt flux. CEU7_900x550.jpg Here you can see the properties of various types of asphalt, both modified and unmodified, to give you a better understanding of how they perform in roofing applications. CEU8_900x550.jpg This chart shows the properties of various reinforcement materials. The right choice will depend largely on the needs of your application. CEU9_900x550.jpg This graph shows a conventional roof system versus a mechanically fastened system. You will notice that with the mechanically fastened system, cover board is not required. sBS modified bitumen Heat welding. sBS modified bitumen Cold adhesive. sBS modified bitumen Self-adhered adhesive. sBS modified bitumen Mechanically fastened. http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/88046 Fri, 01 Feb 2019 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/88046-ceu-innovation-and-resilience-with-precast-concrete 1.jpg The Cortex Innovation Community is home to a vibrant 200-acre innovation hub and technology district in the historic Central West End of St. Louis. When the owners decided to build an additional mixed-use structure that could act as a gateway to the hub, they wanted to create a building that would measure up to the nationally ranked universities and medical centers in the surrounding neighborhood while achieving pedestrian scale to invigorate a walkable community. Photo courtesy of Architectural Imageworks 2.jpg Owners of the newly expanded Girls Inc. health and wellness facility in Omaha, Neb., wanted a design to reflect their mission of being “strong, smart, and bold.” From the beginning, the architect felt the project’s scale, durability, and budget requirements made insulated architectural precast concrete wall panels the obvious choice. The enclosure provides an R-value nearly double what is required by building codes, while the exposed interior wythe of the panel matches the white exterior, eliminating the cost and continual maintenance of painting. Photo courtesy of Kessler Photography 3.jpg Constructed with precast concrete, Sandy Grove Middle School in Hoke County, N.C., features rooftop solar panels and solar trees along with several other energy-efficient systems. Photo courtesy of SfL+a Architects/Firstfloor 4.jpg A team of architecture and engineering students from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) and Rutgers University entered the eNJoy House, Washington, D.C., in the 2013 Solar Decatholon, where collegiate teams design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient and attractive. To meet the criteria for the decathlon, the house had to be solar powered and no more than 1,000 square-feet. The team chose a precast concrete home because it is low maintenance and durable; it can resist weather, chemicals, and moisture; it can contain natural materials and recycled byproducts to reduce its carbon footprint; and it has low to negligible levels of VOCs, making it a healthier alternative to standard construction. To meet aesthetic and energy goals, the precast concrete roof was designed in a bowl shape and calibrated for optimal sun angle and rain collection while hiding the photovoltaics and solar collectors. Photo courtesy of Solar Team NJ 5.jpg Inspired by Ohio’s tradition of pottery production, the new Mercy Health – West Hospital in Cincinnati is clad with thin-brick veneer embellished with thousands of blue and green tiles. Photo courtesy of High Concrete Group 6.jpg At the Coast Transit Authority Beach Comfort Stations in Biloxi, Miss., an all-precast concrete solution helped meet challenging design requirements while providing a functional and attractive building for the beach-going public. The precast structures withstand 200-mph winds and the high loads resulting from storm surge. Using a total-precast structure gave the team the ability to avoid maintenance on a regular basis due to the precast concrete’s durability. Photo courtesy of Gate Precast Company 7.jpg The Canadian Valley Technology Center in El Reno, Okla., features precast concrete in two different colors and three different finishes. Photo courtesy of Simon Hurst Photography 8.jpg The Dior store in Miami was designed to reflect the couture brand’s luxury image of refined elegance, innovation, and a sense of delight. Along with providing the flexibility to achieve the curved panel design, precast concrete also delivered hurricane-resistant performance, which is critical for the waterfront community that regularly faces strong winds, salt air, and heavy rains. Photo courtesy of Alessandra Chemollo 9.jpg The final design of the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis features more than 5,000 precast concrete elements that would stretch 27 miles laid end-to-end. All of these pieces were cast at a local Minnesota plant and shipped to the jobsite in more than 1,500 truckloads. Photo courtesy of Wells Concrete 10.jpg For the Capitol Federal Hall at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan., a mix of cream-colored precast concrete panels and copper panels add visual appeal. Photo courtesy of Jacia Phillips Photography 11.jpg At the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, long precast beams were utilized to minimize the need for columns and beam lines, ensuring great site lines from all seats. Photo courtesy of Wells Concrete http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/88021 Fri, 18 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/88021-ceu-understanding-single-ply-roofing-systems Jan-JM-2.jpg SBS can be cold applied, as shown, but it is also suitable for heat welded, self-adhered, mechanically fastened and hot applied applications. Jan-JM-1.jpg Rubber roofing membrane, known in the industry as ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, or EPDM, is a durable and popular single-ply roofing membrane which can stand up to temperature extremes and moisture. Jan-JM-homepage-885.jpg TPO systems can be mechanically fastened or fully adhered using adhesives. http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/87655 Fri, 01 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/87655-ceu-utilizing-utility-rebates-to-drive-energy-efficient-roofing Duro-Last4.jpg Reflective membrane installations not only increase a building’s efficiency and offer rebate incentive opportunities, but they also work to combat the heat island effect commonly found in urban settings where temperatures are often significantly hotter than surrounding areas due to dense populations of nonreflective surfaces (such as asphalt parking lots and dark roof surfaces). Photo courtesy of Duro-Last. Duro-Last6.jpg Enhanced insulation rebate incentives are typically available for existing construction projects looking to add R-value to a structure heated with natural gas. The increased R-values from added insulation reduce the stress on this nonrenewable resource. Photo courtesy of Duro-Last. Duro-Last2.jpg Educational facilities often face challenging utility bills as they work to regulate the climate for the student body within a restricted budget. By investing in reflective “cool” roofing, schools can utilize rebate incentives to offset the initial cost of the installation while enjoying more manageable utility bills for years to come. Photo courtesy of Duro-Last. Duro-Last7.jpg Infrared imaging shows the cost-saving power of enhanced insulation and reflective “cool” roofing. By deflecting heat away from the rooftop through high reflectivity and containing the controlled climate within the structure through increased R-values, utility consumption drops dramatically and overall energy strain is reduced. Rebate programs that encourage the adoption of these materials and practices are an incentive for building owners to make the investment. Image courtesy of Duro-Last. Duro-Last9.jpg Product manufacturers offer a wealth of information and opportunity to discover savings through utility rebate incentives. Additionally, they can be helpful in the application process and provide needed information to secure rebate funds. Photos courtesy of Duro-Last. Duro-Last3.jpg Product manufacturers offer a wealth of information and opportunity to discover savings through utility rebate incentives. Additionally, they can be helpful in the application process and provide needed information to secure rebate funds. Photos courtesy of Duro-Last. djoverbey@bsu.edu (Daniel Overbey) http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/87360 Wed, 31 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/87360-ceu-emerging-building-envelope-solutions building-envelope-solutions-1.jpg The Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay in Indianapolis, Ind. Photo courtesy of Douglas Adams and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. building-enclosure-rainscreen-pressurized-equalized-rainscreen.jpg Diagrams of a Drained/Back Vented (Open) Rainscreen and a Pressure Equalized Rainscreen (PER). Illustration courtesy of author. Simon-Skjodt-Orangutan-Center.jpg Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center (IOC) at the Indianapolis Zoo. The primary wall assembly of the exhibit structure is protected by a D/BV (open) rainscreen comprised of GFRC panels. Photos courtesy of author and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. Simon-Skjodt-International-Orangutan-Center-2.jpg Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center (IOC) at the Indianapolis Zoo. The primary wall assembly of the exhibit structure is protected by a D/BV (open) rainscreen comprised of GFRC panels. Photos courtesy of author and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. Irsay-YMCA-CityWay.jpg Among other envelope systems employed at the Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay in Indianapolis, Ind., the facility utilizes a PERs system in the form of a metal panel cladding along the fascia and soffit of the signature roof feature. Photo courtesy of Douglas Adams and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. Minneapolis-Central-Library.jpg Aesthetics and energy efficiency prompted the use of silkscreened images on insulated glass units at the Minneapolis Central Library. Photos courtesy of author. Minneapolis-Central-Library-insulated-glass.jpg Aesthetics and energy efficiency prompted the use of silkscreened images on insulated glass units at the Minneapolis Central Library. Photos courtesy of author. Indianapolis-Museum-of-Art.jpg Exterior sunshades installed at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Photo by Keith Clark and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. Indianapolis-Museum-of-Art-2.jpg The Indianapolis Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of Greg Murphy and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. California-Academy-of-Sciences.jpg An undulating extensive green roof atop the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, Calif. Photo courtesy of author. Pulliam-Square-Indianapolis1.jpg Pulliam Square in Indianapolis, Ind., features an outdoor living wall system. Photo courtesy of Barth Hendrickson and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. Pulliam-Square-Indianapolis-2.jpg Pulliam Square in Indianapolis, Ind., features an outdoor living wall system. Photo courtesy of Douglas Adams and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. Stages-of-Design-and-Types-of-Energy-Models.jpg Stages of Design and Types of Energy Models Figure adapted from An Architect’s Guide to Integrated Energy Modeling in the Design Process, p. 8. Original image courtesy of the American Institute of Architects. design-performance-modeling.jpg Design performance modeling can help design teams go beyond oversimplified rules-of-thumb toward better informed decision-making based on predicted performance outcomes. Figure courtesy of author and Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf. NIBS-guideline-3-BECx.jpg NIBS Guideline 3 for BECx is available for free through the online WBDG. Image courtesy of NIBS. BECx-thermal-imaging.jpg BECx can help project teams identify issues in the field related to a range of damage functions and rectify them before the project is complete. Pictured here is an infrared thermal imaging scan of an exterior envelope condition. http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/87049 Thu, 07 Sep 2017 15:30:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/87049-ceu-below-grade-waterproofing-systems-and-design CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-1-Cover.jpg Construction at the Denver Union Station. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-2.jpg Hydrostatic pressure is determined by multiplying liquid density by gravitational force by depth-related pressure. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-3.jpg Water migrating into and through a foundation from water saturated soil can cause the structure to become vulnerable with expensive repairs. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-4.jpg When working at or below the ground water level, waterproofing must take the place of damp proofing. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-5.jpg Waterproofing materials are placed on the outside of the building to block the supply of water in positive-side waterproofing. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-6.jpg When outside factors prevent adequate excavation to allow installation of waterproofing layers on the exterior of a foundation, it may be necessary to install the waterproofing layer before the foundation is poured via blindside waterproofing. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-7.jpg The $1.4 billion Atlantis Resort & Residences in Dubai was built using SBS-modified bitumen blindside waterproofing membrane. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-8.jpg With negative-side waterproofing, membranes are installed on the interior side of the wall, preventing moisture from penetrating inside the space, but potentially allowing damage within the wall. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-9.jpg Improper installation techniques can add up to costly fixes that are not within the original scope of projects. CEU-Below-Grade-Waterproofing-10.jpg Improper substrate preparation can lead to loss of adhesion during assembly. http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86724 Fri, 21 Apr 2017 15:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86724-ceu-vegetated-roof-systems Vegetative-roofing-Cover.jpg An overview of vegetated roof systems. 1Vegetative-roofing-1.jpg Example of an intensive vegetated roof system. Notice the landscape structure on top of Millennium Park in Chicago. Below is all occupied space. Vegetative-roofing-1.jpg The first vegetated roofing systems date as far back as 2020 BCE in Mesopotamia with the hanging gardens of Babylon. Vegetative-roofing-2.jpg The modern trend of green roofs began in Germany with green roofs like this one in Stuttgart—Weilimdorg, Germany. Vegetative-roofing-3.jpg This green roof at the Hotel New Otani in Tokyo, Japan, is another example of a vegetated roof found overseas. Vegetative-roofing-4.jpg Modern green roofs in the United States have started to take off with roof systems like this one found on top of Chicago City Hall. Vegetative-roofing-5.jpg Rainwater management is one of the most important benefits of vegetated roofing systems. Green roofs reduce the amount and rate of rainwater runoff. Vegetative-roofing-6.jpg This graph illustrates how the amount of water collected during a six-hour storm event (measured in gallons) will differ when vegetated and conventional roofing systems are in use. Vegetative-roofing-7.jpg Vegetated roofs will convert carbon dioxide to oxygen, which helps to sustain human and animal life. Vegetative-roofing-8.jpg This chart illustrates how green roofs modify temperature fluctuations of roofing membranes, reducing thermal stress. Vegetative-roofing-9.jpg Two examples of extensive vegetated roof systems. 1Vegetative-roofing-0.jpg Three examples of semi-intensive vegetated roof systems. Vegetative-roofing-12.jpg Root barriers are needed to avoid situations like shown in this picture where roots have penetrated the roof of the structure. http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86723 Fri, 21 Apr 2017 14:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86723-ceu-designing-with-metal-ceilings Cover.jpg Quinnipiac School of Law features a torsion spring concealed metal panel ceiling system with Satin Silver finishes and increased acoustical performance. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON/Nathaniel Riley Photography. Metal-Ceilings-1.jpg Burlington shopping mall’s metal ceiling system presents a continuous, cubed, open cell appearance, and the ease of accessibility to the plenum for frequent changes in retail lighting. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON. Metal-Ceilings-2.jpg Torsion spring metal panels integrate seamlessly with factory-slotted suspension systems to provide a clean-monolithic concealed ceiling solution with ease of accessibility for Quinnipiac School of Law. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON/Nathaniel Riley Photography. Metal-Ceilings-3.jpg Christiana Mall’s corridors showcase linear metal ceiling with wood-look painted finishes. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON. Metal-Ceilings-4.jpg The University of South Florida Marshall Student Center’s ceiling design unifies and connects the interior and exterior spaces with linear metal planks. Photos courtesy of ROCKFON. Metal-Ceilings-5.jpg The University of South Florida Marshall Student Center’s ceiling design unifies and connects the interior and exterior spaces with linear metal planks. Photos courtesy of ROCKFON. Metal-Ceilings-6.jpg O’Hare International Airport Terminal 5 in Chicago uses round base metal baffles to conceal the plenum, provide visual interest and enhance acoustics. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON/Hedrich Blessing, courtesy of Epstein. Metal-Ceilings-7.jpg Cranbrook Kingswood Middle School for Girls relies on metal panel ceiling system with increased acoustic performance for an optimized learning environment. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON/Saari Photography. Metal-Ceilings-8.jpg Benefis Health System’s snap-in metal plank and curved metal ceiling systems are finished to achieve the look of wood for a warm, comforting space, without the demanding maintenance of real wood. Photos courtesy of ROCKFON/J.K. Lawrence Photography. Metal-Ceilings-9.jpg Benefis Health System’s snap-in metal plank and curved metal ceiling systems are finished to achieve the look of wood for a warm, comforting space, without the demanding maintenance of real wood. Photos courtesy of ROCKFON/J.K. Lawrence Photography. Metal-Ceilings-10.jpg Scioto Downs Casino selected open plenum metal ceiling to mask the lighting, HVAC and security systems, and a custom pattern design to accentuate the gaming area. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON/Feinknopf Photography. Metal-Ceilings-11.jpg The lobby of John Michael Flaherty Building in Ottawa, Canada. Plank hook-on metal panels have an acoustic backer and closely spaced perforations to optimize acoustics, while mimicking the look of natural wood with painted finishes. Photos courtesy of ROCKFON/Bochsler Creative Photography. Metal-Ceilings-12.jpg The lobby of John Michael Flaherty Building in Ottawa, Canada. Plank hook-on metal panels have an acoustic backer and closely spaced perforations to optimize acoustics, while mimicking the look of natural wood with painted finishes. Photos courtesy of ROCKFON/Bochsler Creative Photography. Metal-Ceilings-13.jpg Metal perimeter trim provides a neat, clean edge for the ceiling clouds suspended within a LEED Gold-certified office in Ontario, Canada. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON/Bochsler Creative Photography. Metal-Ceilings-14.jpg Enhancing both acoustics and aesthetics, Bradley Central High School Fine Arts Center’s ceiling is composed of curved two-dimensional metal ceiling system with metal perimeter trim and suspension systems. Photo courtesy of ROCKFON/Pepple Photography. http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86722 Wed, 19 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86722-ceu-air-vapor-barrier-elements 1.jpg The difference in water transmission rate brought about by use of barrier material for vapor diffusion is substantial, to say the least. 2.jpg Air barriers are intended to control the movement of air, but may allow moisture vapor to pass through. 3.jpg The drying rate of a wall system is affected by permeance of a membrane, but major increases in perms does not equate to major increases in drying rate. 4.jpg Impermeable vapor barriers control the movement of moisture by diffusing vapor, preventing it from moving through the wall system. 5.jpg Hot, moist air outside can easily infiltrate an air-conditioned interior when no air or vapor barrier is in place. 6.jpg Vapor drive can occur just as easily in cold weather as in warm weather if no barrier membranes are in place. 7.jpg Condensation forms within insulation layers when hot, humid air contacts a cool, dry surface. 8.jpg When structural degradation occurs, finding the source of the problem is not always as easy as looking on the opposite side of the wall. 10.jpg It is critical that there be a physical transition from waterproofing to wall systems to the roof to protect a building. 14.jpg Vapor drive from warm air in the building could create condensation within the insulation depending on the R-value and dew point location. 15.jpg Warm, conditioned air is kept inside the building without collecting in the insulation, and vapor from the outside can enter and exit the assembly through the permeable membrane. 16.jpg This type of double-barrier assembly is a good option for hot climates as it keeps hot, moist air out, but allows the wall to "breathe." 17.jpg Rigid insulation is placed in the exterior cavity, and a vapor barrier keeps moisture vapor from escaping the building without allowing condensation. 18.jpg The "perfect wall" is not only perfect in cold temperatures, but performs strongly in hot climates, too. 19.jpg Moisture permeates the air barrier, then collects on the concrete wall where it cannot dry due to the high humidity. 20.jpg An impermeable vapor barrier will be more successful in keeping out water vapor that has a hard time drying in humid climates. 21.jpg In temperate conditions, vapor drive is limited between the interior and exterior of the building. lewisl@bnpmedia.com (Lindsay Lewis) http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86721 Tue, 18 Apr 2017 16:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86721-earn-your-ceus http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86719 Mon, 17 Apr 2017 16:00:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86719-ceu-envelope-based-solutions-for-metal-buildings CoveCEU-metal-buildings-r.jpg Building with metal can offer many financial incentives for architects and owners, however understanding how to navigate the increasingly restrictive industry standards and requirements requires knowledge, patience and the right tools. CEU-metal-buildings-1.jpg Building with metal can offer many financial incentives for architects and owners, however understanding how to navigate the increasingly restrictive industry standards and requirements requires knowledge, patience and the right tools. CEU-metal-buildings-3.jpg COMcheck CEU-metal-buildings-4.jpg ASHRAE vs IECC CEU-metal-buildings-5.jpg The winery is a mixed-use facility that includes office space, a tasting room, a crush pad area, a fermentation room and spacious barrel storage. This project consists of a custom-engineered metal building system and IMPs. CEU-metal-buildings-6.jpg The winery is a mixed-use facility that includes office space, a tasting room, a crush pad area, a fermentation room and spacious barrel storage. This project consists of a custom-engineered metal building system and IMPs. CEU-metal-buildings-2.jpg IECC 2009 vs IECC 2015 CEU-metal-buildings-7.jpg ASHRAE 90.1-2013/IECC 2015 sets goals as a 15 percent improvement over current 2010/2012 code with full insulation, air infiltration improvements, daylighting required and increased HVAC efficiency. ASHRAE 90.1-2025 IECC 2027 set net-zero as the goal, with alternative energy sources and supporting green energy. http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86285 Mon, 03 Oct 2016 10:30:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86285-the-evolution-of-continuous-insulation CEU2_1.jpg University of Mississippi Student Housing Phase II in Oxford, Miss. CEU2_2.jpg TABLE 1 ASHRAE Standard 90.1 Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc., Atlanta, GA.   * Prescriptive R requirements are approximate for illustration purposes only.  ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999 had 26 climate zones.  In 2004 and thereafter the number of zones were reduced to 8.  Since there is not a direct conversion from 1999 to 2004, the 1999 columns are an approximation based roughly on the boundaries as defined by CDD50 and  HDD65 for each region.    Prescriptive R (minimum) Requirements for Steel Framed Walls, Above Grade CEU2_3.jpg TABLE 2 * Prescriptive R requirements are approximate for illustration purposes only.  ASHRAE 90.1-1999 had 26 climate zones.  In 2004 and thereafter the number of zones were reduced to 8.  Since there is not a direct conversion from 1999 to 2004, the 1999 columns are an approximation based roughly on the boundaries as defined by CDD50 and HDD65 for each region.    Prescriptive R (minimum) Requirements for Mass Walls, Above Grade   CEU2_4.jpg FIGURE 1 United States Climate Zone Map (Figure B1-1, ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2013) CEU2_5.jpg FIGURE 2 Life Cycle Cost Analysis CEU2_6.jpg FIGURE 3 Thermal Imaging of a Building with Cavity Insulation, but No CI CEU2_7.jpg FIGURE 6 NFPA 285 Test Apparatus, Side Section CEU2_8.jpg FIGURE 4 Thermal Imaging of a Building with Cavity Insulation, and CI CEU2_9.jpg FIGURE 5 NFPA 285 Test Apparatus, Front Elevation CEU2_12.jpg FIGURE 7 NFPA 285 Test Wall Under Construction CEU2_13.jpg FIGURE 8 Fire Plume Exiting 1st Story Window CEU2_14.jpg FIGURE 9 Wall Showing Limited Fire Spread After Brick Veneer Has Been Stripped CEU2_15.jpg FIGURE 10 Extruded Polystyrene Cell Structure CEU2_16.jpg FIGURE 11 Polyisocyanurate Cell Structure http://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86284 Mon, 03 Oct 2016 10:30:00 -0400 https://www.buildingenclosureonline.com/articles/86284-high-performance-building-enclosure-design-for-a-net-zero-ready-habitat-for-sub-zero-wildlife CEU1_1.jpg The Polk Penguin Conservation Center is a high-performance building that houses two very different users—a challenging enclosure design. Photo courtesy of Maconochie Photography. CEU1_2.jpg Sunshades, solar shelves, and overhangs on the building’s exterior, as well as their effective system controls are some of the ways to achieve a high-performance building. Image courtesy of Albert Kahn Associates Inc. CEU1_3.jpg Under construction, in the middle of the building is the two-level exhibition space. To the left (west) is the lobby and gift shop, and to the right (east) is the ramp that leads to the lower level. To the back (north) is staff facilities. Site orientation is an important passive design element that will help control heat gain. Photo courtesy of Albert Kahn Associates Inc. CEU1_4.jpg To achieve a successful design, the design process must be fluid. The project team evaluate options, model for effectiveness, and then redesign until the design meets all unique project criteria. Illustration courtesy of Albert Kahn Associates Inc. CEU1_5.jpg Uniquely designed skylights in the penguin habitat allowed in UV light rays needed by the birds to maintain their natural biorhythms and limited the formation of infrared rays. Photo courtesy of Maconochie Photography. CEU1_6.jpg FIGURE 1 The Habitat section diagram. You can see how the two user groups, penguins and people, share this facility. The human habitat wraps around the penguin habitat—one climate surrounding another climate. Illustration courtesy of Jones and Jones Architects and Landscape Architects. CEU1_7.jpg FIGURE 2 All around the pool we have a separation, with exception of the visitor’s tunnel/tube which is acrylic. Where it is a wall, it is a cavity wall to prevent thermal transmission and keep the water temperature cold. Illustration courtesy of Albert Kahn Associates Inc. CEU1_8.jpg Acrylic glazing was used to separate the users’ habitats in the viewing tunnels on the lower level because of its higher thermal performance compared to glass. The panels varied in width, some 9 inches thick. Photo courtesy of Maconochie Photography. CEU1_9.jpg The entire foundation was encapsulated with a vapor barrier, water proofing, and insulation to protect against thermal transmission. Photo courtesy of Albert Kahn Associates Inc. CEU1_10.jpg Thousands of custom, insulated metal scales cover the exterior of the PPCC. They are an integral part of the layered, energy-efficient building enclosure system. Photo courtesy of Maconochie Photography. CEU1_11.jpg FIGURE 3 Enclosure wall design at the lobby and above the penguin habitat. Illustration courtesy of Albert Kahn Associates Inc. CEU1_12.jpg FIGURE 4 Two walls were used in the animal husbandry area, to ensure control of their wide range on temperature requirements. Illustration courtesy of Albert Kahn Associates Inc. CEU1_13.jpg This series of photos show the enclosure being constructed. First, insulation panels are going up and being sealed off in between the panels. Photos courtesy of Albert Kahn Associates Inc. CEU1_14.jpg Next, the waterproof membrane is installed over the top of the panels. CEU1_15.jpg Lastly, the metal tiles are installed over the membrane.