Commercial R-Value Requirements by Climate Zone (ASHRAE 90.1)
Quick answer: ASHRAE 90.1 sets minimum R-values for walls, roofs, and floors in each of its eight climate zones, with separate targets for continuous insulation and cavity insulation. For most […]
Continuous Insulation for Community Centers and Public Works
Community centers, libraries, and water treatment facilities are built to serve the public for decades and beyond. That longevity depends heavily on the building envelope — and traditionally, architects and […]
Finally, Continuous Insulation That Keeps Up with the Speed of Modular Construction
The 2021 IECC now requires continuous insulation across all building types, and that requirement applies to modular construction. For manufacturers whose workflows were built around older code, this isn’t a […]
4 Essential ASTM Tests for Continuous Insulation Systems
Every building material decision impacts the structural performance of the building envelope. When untested or inadequately validated materials fail, the consequences extend far beyond repairs: they compromise the structural integrity […]
What Is a Building Enclosure? Components and Performance
Commercial buildings account for considerable energy use, making them prime candidates for innovative efficiency solutions through building enclosure system improvements. And, as energy codes tighten and sustainability becomes non-negotiable, design […]
Cladding Support Systems for Multiple Cladding Types on One Building
Projects with multiple different cladding types need thermally broken cladding support systems that will remain durable and energy efficient, without having to sacrifice other performance requirements necessary for the building […]
ASCE 7 Compliance for Continuous Insulation and Cladding Support
Buildings across diverse climate zones are subjected to significant external forces, directly challenging their structural integrity. Structural integrity is essential for the safety, durability, and longevity of a building, and […]
ASTM E84 & NFPA 285: Fire Testing for Continuous Insulation Systems
Fire safety compliance represents a critical design parameter in modern building envelope engineering. The NFPA 285 and ASTM E84 test standards establish quantifiable performance criteria that determine how exterior wall […]
Continuous Insulation for Energy-Efficient Airports
Energy efficiency is essential for reducing energy use and operating costs in traffic-heavy buildings such as airports. With large interior volumes, long operating hours, and constant exterior exposure, airport terminals […]