When it comes to improving the energy efficiency of a building, the building envelope (walls, windows, roofs, etc.) should be given the first attention, and this is the spirit of newly introduced British Columbia Energy Step Code. This demands specific attention to insulating strategies and air tightness methods so that heat loss through the building envelope is reduced to the desired level. But there is a catch: Increasing the energy efficiency of the building envelope should be done in such a way that it will not compromise other aspects such as moisture management, durability, etc. So how can we be sure this does not happen? By taking a holistic approach!
This blog post highlights seven wood-framed wall mock-ups, ranging from exterior insulated (insulation outboard of wall sheathing), split-insulated (insulation inboard and outboard of wall sheathing), and interior insulated (insulation inboard of wall sheathing). It also showcases three wall-to-window mock-ups, and associated wall penetrations. These 10 mock-ups cover a wide-range of wall solutions ranging from those that meet the intent of the National Building Code of Canada, to those that offer superior performance well beyond the Building Code. They are developed with specific focus on the holistic understanding of various walls’ performance in terms of energy efficiency, moisture management, thermal comfort, long-term durability, accessibility, & adaptability to future repair/renovation. The cost-associated aspect is currently under development and will be covered in future blog posts.
This blog post intends to prepare the industry for the adoption of BC Energy Step Code by reinforcing the importance of taking a holistic approach when it comes to improving energy efficiency of the building envelope. The information presented here can be used by builders, architects, energy advisors, building owners, etc. in brainstorming various wall options during the design phase, and it can assist in selecting wall options that would be the optimum fit for a project’s specific needs. While the necessary aspects of wall design are presented here, when it comes to project’s specific needs and environmental loads, it is recommended to consult with a building envelope professional.
The wall mock-ups presented here are designed & built for “Building A Legacy”, a project of the Regional District of the East Kootenay (RDEK). Initiated by the leadership of Mrs. Megan Lohmann and her dedicated team from the Community Energy Association, this project takes an integrative, collaborative, and hands-on approach in developing an intuitive understanding of building energy efficiency and how it relates to long-term impacts. This project would not have been possible without the support of the Regional District of the East Kootenay, The Real Estate Foundation of BC, BC Hydro, FortisBC, Columbia Basin Trust and the Community Energy Association. The future phases of the “Building A Legacy” project will focus on mock-ups for below grade assemblies, roofs and decks. Stay tuned!
Thinking holistically is the only reliable way to achieve long-term satisfactory performance of a building as a whole. Let’s aim for it!
