Solplan Review No 132

6 MB·English

by  Richard Kadulski

Nso. Y6Z oln plnm an rev^i eJawnuary 2007
B
the independent journal of energy conservation, building science & construction practice
Inside . ..
Thermal Comfort....................................................3 Letters to the Editor.............................................12
eKOCOMFORT Performance Monitoring...........6 BC Building Code Change Seminars...................14
Accessory Apartments............................................8 You Asked Us About:
HRV Safety Recall.................................................9 Ventilation and Humidity...........................15
Technical Research Committee News..................10 Energy Answers....................................................16
Window Installation Details; New Design Guide for Controlling
Certified Heating Technician Flanking Sound..........................................18
Calgary Incentives for Green Building
Thermal comfort
2 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 3
From the Editor . . . Thermal Comfort
Recently the media has been full of reports about the environ­ tant, but it only deals with a small portion of the housing stock.
ment and climate change, and it has emerged as the top issue of By eliminating the Energuide program, the momentum of an What is comfort? Temperature and Humidity
the year. We are now coming to terms with the consequences existing building upgrading initiative has been broken, as
of human industrial activity over the past two centuries since has the infrastructure that provided the independent advice to To be thermally comfortable, a person wear­ Many combinations of air temperature, surface
the start of the Industrial Revolution. We are learning that our builders and homeowners. ing a normal amount of clothing feels neither too temperatures, air movement and humidity that
actions can have an impact on the global ecosphere, often with Ostensibly, the newly announced replacement is ecoEN- cold nor too warm. Thermal comfort is important create comfortable conditions are possible, but
unknown consequences. ERGY Retrofit, which looks a lot like repackaging of the both for one’s well-being whether in the work­ all are interrelated. That is why merely maintain­
It is difficult for an individual to grasp how our seemingly Energuide for Houses program. But despite all the fanfare, place, or in the home. ing a set air temperature will not always ensure
small actions can become something so much larger. How is it there are no details and no start date, although it will probably Home heating systems are really a solution to comfort.
that driving to the comer store, keeping the heater or air con­ coincide with the start of the new fiscal year, April 1. Unfortu­ a body cooling problem because the human body Temperature is a measure of heat intensity.
ditioner on for the extra few hours, or using those disposable nately, it smacks of a bad April Fools joke, although the issue is warm-blooded and must maintain a body tem­ Dry-bulb temperature, usually known as the
convenience items can be so bad for the environment? Un­ is no joking matter. perature within very close limits. Our body burns air temperature, is the temperature taken with a
fortunately, small individual actions, taken together, add up to The strength of the Energuide program is that it provides food to provide energy and this always produces thermometer not affected by contact with water
something much more significant. an energy use rating, developed by an independent third party. heat, so the body must be cooled to remain or radiation. Wet bulb temperature is measured
I have observed the impact the BC Hydro has had with their The rating is equally applicable to new construction, and is comfortable. Our body temperature has to be with a wetted thermometer in rapidly moving air.
energy conservation programs over the years. They found a way being used as a benchmark by the Built-Green program in maintained at a constant 97-99°F (36.1 - 37.2°C) The relationship between “dry bulb” and “wet
to break down electrical energy use into small applications, and western Canada, and by the Ontario building code, which has so we are always giving off heat. bulb” temperatures is used to establish the rela­
focused on them. For example, who would think that changing identified a target of 80 for new construction in 2012. How­ The thermal environment around us will have tive humidity.
a 40-watt fluorescent bulb for a 32-watt unit, saving 8 watts, ever, there is no reason why all new homes should not be built an effect on the human body to maintain a suit­ The optimum values for each of these may dif­
to that standard right now.
is anything worth bothering about? But when you add up the able rate of heat loss. Comfort may be regarded fer from place to place, and be variable over time
numbers of 40-watt bulbs out there, it certainly can make a dif­ If we really want to show our commitment to do the right both physically and physiologically as a condi­ and between people because different people
thing, we should be trying to achieve at least an Energuide 80
ference. A similar breakdown was done for many other electrical tion under which the body doesn’t need to make respond differently to the same conditions.
level now for renovation work, and much more in new con­
applications. a great effort to reduce or increase heat loss. For thermal comfort, the relative humidity
struction, where decisions are made from scratch. The Net
With the climate change issue, we are overwhelmed by the
The most commonly used criteria for comfort should be more than 30% but less than 60%.
Zero Energy House initiatives in various parts of the world,
enormity of the situation. We need to remember that buildings
is air temperature. However, there are a number Very low humidity can lead to increased static
including Canada, are trying to showcase how that can be
account for a significant amount of resource use, both for con­
of other factors involved. These include: electricity and health problems, including skin
done. The buildings we are building and renovating today will
struction and operation. The embodied energy of a building is
Air temperature (Dry-Bulb), irritation. At low humidity levels, our mucous
be standing for many generations to come. We should make
much less than the energy and resources needed to maintain the
Relative Humidity membranes dry out and we become more sus­
every effort possible to ensure that their impact is as small as
building over its life. And since there are so many buildings, a
Air Velocity ceptible to viruses and other agents, as the body
possible.
lot of small, seemingly inconsequential actions add up.
^ Mean Radiant Temperature filtering mechanisms deteriorate.
That is why it is disconcerting to see the cutbacks in environ­ ^ Metabolic Rate As well, at high humidity levels there is a
mental programs. One cutback that has received attention was ^ Clothing Insulation greater potential for condensation on colder sur­
the cancellation of the Energuide for Houses program, which
faces and mould growth. The humidity that can
Richard Kadulski,
addressed the vast majority of housing stock into the year 2025, Comfort conditions vary from person to be maintained in a house during winter will de­
Editor
2040 and beyond. The buildings are already in place, and have person within a narrow range. Our feeling of pend on its construction characteristics, including
been for many years. The impact of new construction is impor­ comfort is influenced by our activity level, the window properties. Lower performance windows
clothing we are wearing, the temperature, air will have a cooler surface temperature, allowing
movement, humidity and the surrounding surface
/olplan review Postage paid in Vancouver, BC.
copy all information off label for faster, accurate What temperature is 'right' for various activities?
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to temperatures. A comfortable environment is one
processing.
^ ft* U /xsnsl o/ccmi*vaicn buZing cc*nc« t constructor* prmcM PO Box 86627, North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2 CONTRIBUTIONS: Unsolicited contributions and in which these factors are in an appropriate mix. Optimal for bathing, showering. Sleep is disturbed 78T 25°C
Editor-Publisher: Richard Kadulski COPYRIGHT 2007 by The Drawing-Room Graphic manuscripts welcome. Include self-addressed The mix is complex, as a change in one will af­ People feel warm, lethargic and sleepy. Optimal for 75T 24°C
Illustrations: Terry Lyster SReerpvriocdeusc Ltitodn. Awll irthigohutts rwersiettrevne dp.ermission of the pnoret -rsetsapmopnesdib mlea filoerr liof rsest uorrn d raemquaegsete odf. sPaumblei.s her fect another. Understanding the subtlety of these unclothed people.
Contributors: Geoff McDonell, Jon Eakes, Rob
Dumont, Trevor Nightingale, Janet Ansell publisher is strictly forbidden. Transgressors who While every effort is made to provide accurate factors goes a long way to understanding the Most comfortable year-round indoor temperature for 72°F 22°C
ISSN: 0828-6574 don’t take heed note: the wet spot will be the result and complete information, we do not warrant or qualities of different heating systems. sedentary people.
Date of Issue: February 2007 of more than an accidental storm event. guarantee the accuracy and completeness of One estimate for the weighting of factors that
SOLPLAN REVIEW is published 6 times per year by: A license for photocopying or other reprographic such information. Optimum for performance of mental work. 70°F 21°C
the drawing-room graphic services ltd. copying can be also be obtained from Access ADVERTISING POLICY: Publisher’s discretion affect human comfort is 15% is accounted for by Physically inactive people begin to shiver. Active people 64°F 18°C
Copyright (Canadian Copyright Licensing Agency, 1 in the acceptance of any advertisement. the humidity conditions, 35% by air movement
TPeOl: B60o4x -8668692-178, 4N1o rFtha xV:a 6n0c4o-u6v8e9r,- 1B8C4 1V 7L 4L2 Yonge St., Suite 800, Toronto, ON M5E 1E5). No endorsement is stated or implied by the and 50% by radiant heat exchange. are comfortable.
SUBSCRIPTIONS: In Canada 1 year $51.94 (incl
e-mail: [email protected] publisher. Source: National Research Council (Canada) Indoor Air Quality and Thermal Comfort in Open-Plan Offices,
Street address: GST) (NB, NS, NF $55.86 includes HST); 2 years PRINTED IN CANADA Construction Technology Update No. 64 , October 2005
#204 - 1037 West Broadway $93.28 (incl GST) (NB, NS, NF $100.32 includes GST Registration: R105208805
HST). USA and other foreign payable in US $ 1
Vancouver, BC V6H 1E3 SOLPLAN is a registered trademark of the
year $56.00, 2 years $102.00.
Publications Mail Agreement No. 40013363 Drawing-Room Graphic Services Ltd.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: include a mailing label or
4 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 5
condensation on the window. You very quickly to radiant heat. For example, at A simple formula has been developed that they are more expensive and not as readily avail­
could think of condensation as a 50°F (10°C) it may feel warm in the sunshine, as allows normal comfort level of a room to be able as the standard residential thermostat which
natural dehumidifier of the house, the body responds to the hot sun. However, when calculated by adding the two primary heating measures air temperature. As a result, we do not
but at a cost to the structural and a cloud moves in front of the sun, you instantly components: air temperature and mean radiant often see them installed.
health integrity of the finishes. feel cooler, although the air temperature has not temperature (average room surface temperature).
changed. The formula is: air temperature (°F) + mean radi­ Air Movement
Mean Radiant Windows are usually the coolest surfaces. ant temperature (°F) = 140 (°F).
Temperature Thus the radiant temperature of a window at For example, with a conventional forced Moving air generates convection heat loss and
night will be significantly different from that of warm air heating system we can maintain com­ a cooling sensation on our skin. Air movement
Although air temperature and an insulated outside wall, which may be different fortable conditions at an air temperature of about over the skin evaporates moisture (our perspira­
relative humidity are well un­ from the floor. Distance to the element will also 72°F (22°C) with a mean radiant temperature tion) into the air, cooling the body. As moisture
derstood, the concept of mean affect the temperature that is felt. of 68°F (72 + 68 = 140). With a radiant heating evaporates energy is required. To evaporate
radiant temperature is less well The qualities of the surrounding surfaces are system, comfort is achieved at 68°F air tempera­ sweat, energy is drawn from our body, thus
understood, yet it is a very sig­ also important, as they determine how good a ture if the mean radiant temperature is 72°F (68 creating a cooling effect. The rate of evaporation
nificant criteria for determining reflector the surfaces are. With a perfect reflector, + 72 = 140). The fact that the air temperature in a (and heat loss) is directly related to the rate of air
comfort conditions. Mean Radiant the radiant energy loss from a person is reflected room is 68 or 72°F is no guarantee of comfort. A movement. An example is the “cooling” that we
Temperature (MRT) is a measure of the surface back at the same body temperature as the person room with a temperature of 67°F (19°C) may feel feel when we walk out of a hot shower or when a
temperatures of surfaces surrounding a person. and there will be little discomfort. Of course, warmer than a room in which the air temperature summer breeze passes over us.
It is also a measure of the radiant heat exchange there is no such thing as a perfect reflector. When
is 72°F if the radiant losses are balanced. In hot weather a fan is used to stimulate air
between a person and their surroundings. It there are several surfaces at different tempera­
Drapes in front of large picture windows movement to cool us. When you are seated near
describes the radiant environment for a point in tures, as is the usual case, the effect of the mean
at night can improve comfort by reducing the a fan, you may feel a cool draft even though the
space. Within the building, the MRT is an aver­ radiant temperature becomes more significant
radiant heat loss, because the surface of the air temperature may be high - in the 77-86°F (25-
age of all surfaces in a room. and can contribute to significant discomfort.
fabric now becomes the radiant surface and the 30°C) range. This is because the high velocity
The mean radiant temperature is dependent It is the mean radiant temperature in a cold
temperature of the fabric is warmer than the cold of air sweeping over the body produces a higher
on the relationship of the surface to the person building that may make it feel much cooler than
window surface so we do not loose as much radi­ than normal rate of convective body heat loss.
and can vary from point to point. Radiant heat if just the air temperature were being read. The
ant heat. In the winter, when heating is wanted, too
transfer is always from hot to cold. It can move discomfort many people experience in front of
through the vacuum of space, as the sun heats the large windows may not be just a draft from the Heating registers and radiators are typically much air movement leads to discomfort. How­
placed against the outside wall under windows to ever, because the heat storage capacity of air
earth through the vacuum of space. How much window or convection currents off the window,
heat the coolest part of the envelope (the win­ is small, it takes much air to move even small
body heat is lost by radiation depends on the sur­ but also the radiant heat loss from the individual
dows), thus reducing the radiant heat loss, and quantities of heat. At times and at certain points
face temperatures in the room. This is one of the to the glass. For instance, after the sun has set,
also reducing cold convective air currents wash­ in a room, such as near a forced air register, air
most important elements affecting comfort. a person may feel coolness, even though the
ing down the wall. movement may be at very high velocities. One
Heat transfer from a body to its surround­ temperature in the room is unchanged as the
A building that has been allowed to cool for reason that forced air heating systems have to
ings happens when the surface of the body is at radiant temperature of the glass is lower than the
a few weeks will feel very uncomfortable even circulate hotter air is that the air movement does
a higher temperature than its surroundings. That insulated surfaces.
after the air temperature has been brought up to not chill us. In a poorly laid out or oversized
is why surface tempera­
a seemingly comfortable 22-23°C. As long as forced air heating system, large volumes of air
tures of a room have a big Acceptable Ranges of Operative Temperature
the mass of the house remains cooler, the mean movement will create this discomfort. It will feel
impact on comfort. A room (a combination of air and radiant temperatures)
radiant temperature remains lower and the space like unwanted drafts.O
has several surfaces, each Summer
is not comfortable. This is what we experience
of which can be at different
Relative humidity 30% 24.5 - 28°C 76 - 82°F when we arrive home after a winter vacation.
temperatures, depending
The tendency is to crank up the heat. How­
Relative humidity 60% 23 - 25.5°C 74 - 78T
on the room’s finish and
ever, it remains somewhat uncomfortable even
thermal insulation. Winter
when the air temperature has been brought up
The warm human body Relative humidity 30% 20.5 - 25.5°C 69-78T to the setting, and full comfort conditions won’t
“sees” cold surfaces, so it
Relative humidity 60% 20 - 24=C 68 - 75"F be achieved until the mass of the air has been
will radiate heat to them, warmed up.
Examples of acceptable operative temperature ranges based on comfort zone
thus creating a cooling diagrams in ASHRAE Standard-55-2004. Recognizes insulation impact of Although mean radiant temperatures can be
sensation. Skin responds clothing worn at different times of the year. measured and controlled with MRT thermostats.
6 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 7
eKOCOMFORT Performance Monitoring
Manitoba Monitoring Findings not address the Building Code requirement for
bathroom and kitchen exhausts.
The Advanced House initiative in the early Easy and efficient maintenance. Only one
The Winnipeg study looked at three systems The average boiler combustion efficiency
1990s set out to showcase energy efficient, envi­ service company covers heating, domes­
manufactured by Vebteck that were installed in was consistently in the range of 83-84%. This
ronmentally responsive homes that had an energy tic water heating and ventilation; modular
three inner-city low-income homes. Energy use efficiency is on par with that of the best non­
consumption target at least 50% more stringent systems simplify maintenance, thus reducing
and energy efficiency of the various components condensing residential gas-fired appliances and
than the R-2000 target. Ten houses were built repair costs.
in the heating systems were recorded over a is similar for both space heating and domestic
across Canada, each unique and responding to Continuous low-speed operation gives im­
two-year period. These compared to that of more hot water heating applications. This is similar to
regional concerns. One common feature in all proved thermal comfort
conventional heating systems. the energy efficiency of a mid-efficiency furnace,
the houses was integrated mechanical systems. ®" Continuous low-speed operation provides
The systems were advanced prototype units, but considerably more efficient than standard
Over the past decade, both builders and home- continuous ventilation and air filtration to
owners have become increasingly interested in improve indoor air quality. so the observations noted may not be fully ap­ gas-fired water heaters. The lower efficiency is
systems that use a single water-heating device to Integrated controls provide a smoother/sim­ plicable to production units when they are used explained by the inability of the system to oper­
provide space heating and domestic hot water. pler homeowner interface. in greater numbers. The manufacturer will likely ate in condensing mode most of the time.
Known as “combo systems,” these devices can Electricity use is reduced through an elec­ be fine-tuning the design, and resolving some of The electrical energy used by the fan, pump
the problems noted.
provide improved comfort and have the ability tronically commutated motor (ECM) circula­ and burner for space heating varied from an aver­
to provide forced-air heating, in-floor radiant tion fan for continuous low-speed operation. The first unit delivered, the boiler, was found age low of 550 watts to a high of 750 watts. By
heating, baseboard heating or any combination of Energy efficient. Improved overall heating to be much heavier than a conventional furnace comparison, the power draw of half-horsepower
these from a single heating appliance. performances saves natural gas relative to and the air-handling unit was bulkier than a PSC motors in furnaces manufactured between
In response to this growing interest, and as separate space and water heating appliances. furnace. Locating the unit to meet clearances 1990-1994 is in the range of 450 to 800 watts.
a follow-up to the Advanced Houses program, Space efficient. Uses less space than the three needed for servicing and to minimize intrusion The ventilation components did not function
manufacturers, trade associations, utilities and appliances it replaces. into the basement took a lot of planning, in part correctly at any time. The system design is for
the Government of Canada formed a unique because the houses are very small and the equip­ the fan in the air handling unit to operate at a low
consortium to test and set minimum performance But do these systems really deliver? To ment is quite large. speed when the thermostat is set to the “fan on”
requirements for products that combine not only find out, Manitoba Hydro sponsored a research While the eKOCOMFORT appliance may be position, and the outdoor air supply ducts of the
space and water heating, but also mechanical project to assess the potential benefits of eKO­ simple in concept, the apparent simplicity did not HRV to open to allow heat recovery ventilation.
ventilation. COMFORT systems to curb the ongoing trend translate into it being easily understood for the The ECMs driving the ventilation fans drew 100
eKOCOMFORT is a new class of residential in the industry that is seeing a move from gas to trades working with the equipment. Its simplic­ to 155 watts when operating at low (ventila­
appliances that combine space heating, water electric domestic water heaters in Manitoba. ity was lost in the efforts to coordinate the trades tion) speed. If the ventilation component of the
heating and mechanical ventilation. Advantages Although the products monitored experienced and have them correctly install an appliance that system had operated as intended, the electrical
of eKOCOMFORT systems include potentially some set-up and control function problems, the was not well understood by any of them. energy use for ventilation would have been com­ Evaluation of the
simpler installation, easy and efficient mainte­ systems have the potential to be at least as reli­ The installing contractor, who is representa­ parable to that of a typical stand-alone HRV. Performance of
nance, reduced electric consumption and im­ able as conventional space and water heating tive of residential heating contractors, did not Newer eKOCOMFORT products use a ven­ eKocomfort Heating
proved energy efficiency. appliances. However, since eKOCOMFORT is feel qualified to commission the boiler unit so a tilation fan in addition to the air handler fan to Systems for Manitoba
Many of the benefits claimed for eKOCOM­ a new concept that installing contractors did not boiler mechanic was retained to complete the gas provide ventilation. This is equivalent to adding Hydro by Bert Phillips,
FORT systems are not exclusive to eKOCOM­ fully understand, nor were fully trained in, there hookup and fire the units. The installing contrac­ a conventional HRV to the furnace. O Unies Ltd.
FORT systems (e.g., continuous ventilation, were some problems and increased costs. tor maintained responsibility for the airside of
energy efficient fans, variable output space In general, it does not appear that eKOCOM­ the system, while the boiler mechanic assumed
The eKOCOMFORT product used in these dwellings has a low-mass
heating). These same benefits are available with FORT products will be universally more efficient responsibility for connecting the various com­
direct-vent boiler, an air handler with a hot water fan coil to provide
conventional residential heating, ventilating and than conventional residential mechanical sys­ ponents inside the Vebteck, getting the units
space heating and an integral HRV to provide ventilation. An instan­
air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Increasingly, tems. Energy-use comparisons to conventional through gas inspections and firing them up. This
taneous boiler to domestic hot water heat exchanger is used to supply
site-assembled integrated mechanical systems are residential mechanical systems will vary de­ division of work caused some problems later in
domestic hot water.
being used, especially in upscale houses. pending on the specific space and water heating the project.
The air handler is a variant of the Lifebreath Clean Air Furnace, with
load profiles and the efficiency of the appliances In order for these systems to be properly in­
an ECM to drive the air circulation blower. The gas boiler is operated to
The benefits of a eKOCOMFORT system against which a eKOCOMFORT product is stalled and maintained, a detailed trades training
maintain water temperature within a defined temperature range. When
include: evaluated. It was found that eKOCOMFORT effort will be required.
the thermostat calls for heat, the hot water circulation pump is enabled
products can’t operate in condensing mode for The integral heat recovery ventilator (HRV)
Simplified installation. A single appliance and a three-way valve in the hot water circuit directs water from the
most space heating applications so they will de­ seemed to be an especially abstract concept for
package - covered by one warranty, installed boiler to the fan coil in the air handler. The air-handling unit has a flat
by one installer - provides heating, cooling, liver space heating at an efficiency similar to that the installing contractor to comprehend and a plate air-to-air heat exchanger core. Negative pressure at the circulation
ventilation and domestic water heating, and of mid-efficiency gas furnaces. number of errors were made in the installation fan intake draws air from the outdoors through the supply side of the
of the ductwork and controls to provide ventila­
requires only one gas and one electric con­ HRV core, and into the circulation airstream.
tion to the house. As well, the integral HRV did
nection. Information: mmekocomfort.com
8 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 9
Accessory Apartments HRV Safety Recall
Accessory apartments or secondary suites lowed accessory apartments either in the entire There have been six reported fires with heat Holdings Inc. and Venmar Ventilation.
are an affordable housing option that allows the municipality or in parts. The study found that recovery installations, but the cause has not yet Nutech manufactures HRV equipment un­
maximum use of existing housing stock and core cities in 14 CMAs do not allow accessory been determined. The fires in Ontario homes der the following brand names: Lifebreath,
infrastructure. They are a good way that resi­ apartments. These include Calgary, Winnipeg, caused some property damage, although there are Tradewinds, Honeywell, Lennox, Fresh-X-
dential density cam be increased in a sustainable Saint John, the former city of Hamilton, King­ no known injuries. It is thought that the cause Clt anger, American Aides, Ray dot, Standex,
way and in a way that can allow for community ston, Kitchener, London, Oshawa, Peterbor­ may be the result of fan motor failure. Sears Authorized Indoor Clean Air Services,
buy-in. However, no matter the technical ways ough, the former city of St.Catharines, Windsor, The problem has never shown up in any tests Nutone and Airflow.
to achieve it, municipal zoning bylaws dictate Saguenay (formerly the CMA of Chicoutimi- done by Canadian Standards Association Interna­ This recall applies to Nutech HRV units
whether, and in what zones, accessory apart­ Jonquiere), the former city of Montreal, and the tional (CSA). However, in the interests of safety manufactured between 1992 and 1998 which
ments are permitted. former city of Sherbrooke. and because a small number of fires of an unex­ have fan motors that are white in color. If the fan
Many locations across the country already The 220 municipalities where accessory apart­ plained nature have taken place in homes with motor is not white, it does not need to be inspect­
allow secondary suites. They are known under ments are allowed have a total of 240 bylaws or these units, CSA, along with the manufacturers, ed under this program.
a variety of names, including secondary suite or regulations. Most allow secondary suites as of has announced a consumer alert and inspection Nutech is conducting the entire inspection
dwelling, accessory apartments, garden suite or right, with only 16% of bylaws regulating this program for fan motors in heat recovery ventila­ program, and as such all inquiries should be
granny flats, and sometimes as mortgage helpers. use by discretionary or conditional provisions. tors. Manufacturers involved are Nutech R. directed to Nutech at 1-866-557-0535 or www.
The expression “accessory apartment” is used Very few bylaws require a special municipal ap­ hrvinfolwe.com. It is estimated that about 59,000
when referring to a self-contained dwelling that proval or agreement to be signed. Venmar Model Numbers affected by units are affected by the inspection program.
is accessory in use to the principal dwelling, and Accessory apartments are permitted mostly the Safety Upgrade Program Venmar Ventilation is part of the American
which can be located either within the primary in a primary dwelling but some allow accessory multinational Nortek (manufacturers of products
Brand Model
dwelling or in an accessory building on the same apartments in an accessory building. About under the Broan and NuTone label). Venmar
lot as the primary dwelling. two thirds of the bylaws authorize accessory Venmar AEXX brands involved in the recall include: Venmar,
EARC
There are no universally recognized standards apartments in a specific type of building and in Flair, vanEE, NuTone, Guardian by Broan,
1XX
for these units. The National Building Code only specifically identified zones. 40X Sears, and Conformax. Only certain mod­
recognizes single dwelling units. However, some A little over half of the bylaws include some 40XXX els manufactured between 1991 and 2001 are
local codes have developed local regulations that form of restriction on the size of the accessory Venmar AVS 1.X covered by the recall as they may have mo­
make it easier to convert existing dwellings with apartment or impose a minimum lot size require­ 2.X tors that have a risk of overheating. Venmar’s
less stringent requirements than would apply to ment to allow an accessory apartment. Many 30XX web site http://www.venmar.ca/CustSuppNsup.
55XX
new construction. bylaws include some provision relating to the aspx?lang=en lists model numbers and serial
Accessory apartments appear under many dif­ architectural integration of the accessory apart­ Flair 30 number series which could be subject to recall.
30XX
ferent names in the regulations examined. There ment, mostly formulated in order to protect If an owner has an affected HRV, they should
55
were 24 distinct names used in English and 24 in the external appearance of the building and the 55XX unplug the unit and contact the manufacturer.
French. There appear to be two main categories: character of the neighbourhood. 85115
Prior to 1995, Ontario municipalities were Guardian by Broan 100X •
• names that refer to a dwelling in relation to required under the Planning Act to allow acces­ 200X More Information
its location, such as in a type of building (for sory apartments as of right. These provisions vanEE 10
The affected models are described on the manufacturers’ websites, which
example, garden suite, garage suite, second were repealed in 1995 and municipalities were 1XX
also include detailed information on the steps that should be followed:
house, coach house, accessory building or then allowed to permit accessory apartments and 100X
Accessory Apartment 20
within a given building, such as basement to require the registration of secondary suites. In
Regulations In Census 20XX Nutech/Lifebreath - http://www.lifebreath.com/(refer to the “1992-1998
Metropolitan Areas In suite or apartment in house). Toronto, as a result of a decision by the Ontario 90 Product Alert” section)
Canada Prepared for CMHC • names that refer to a dwelling in relation to Municipal Board (OMB) in 2000, the establish­ Sears OPTIMUM
Research Division by Monika the occupant (such as granny suite, in-law ment of a second living unit in any single-de­
NuTone NUTR130 Venmar - http://www. venmar. ca/CustSuppNsHp.asp.x?lang=en
Ruffolo and Chris Down, suite, family care suite, or nanny suite). tached or semi-detached home is permitted in the
Conformax 300, 350, 400
of the Intergovernmental newly enlarged city of Toronto.
Committee on Urban and The X digit used in the model number can be either
A CMHC study set out to identify current In Quebec municipalities have the authority
Regional Research (ICURR), a letter OR a number.
zoning regulations applicable to accessory apart­ to limit the occupancy of an additional dwelling
and David Grondin, under The unit's serial number begins with the letters
ments in municipalities within the Canada’s 33 to a relative, a dependant, or persons who are or
the direction of Catherine "SER." The 5th and 6th digits indicate the year of
Marc hand, Executive Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs). The study were related by blood or allied to the owner or manufacture, while the 7th and 8th digits indicate
Director of ICURR. found that about half of the municipalities al­ occupant of the principal dwelling. O the month.
10 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 11
Technical Research Committee News
classroom as well as on-site training. The pro­ to a higher level of overall construction quality,
fold marks on each end with the drawing gram includes core competency courses provid­ which requires less effort from the City's plans
templates. Snip out the corners. Place ing basic understanding of the field, plus special­ examination and inspection processes to achieve
the bending jig over the flashing and bend ist streams enabling participants to specialize in acceptable construction standards. In addition,
up the end dam with a pair of needle nose forced air, hydronic or geothermal streams, or to homes built to Built Green™ standards tend to
pliers. Then hammer it down flat against complete the full series for all technologies. cost more than conventionally built houses, so
the jig. The first students will start in the fall of 2007. the rebate strategy rewards the builders for their
Canadian The animation shows a ‘generic’jig Those who already have been in the industry for forward-thinking efforts.
Home Builders' with no dimensions since the siding some time will be able to challenge the course Calgary's rebate is not specifically referred to
Association thickness, strapping and window place­ material and earn their designation through a as a Built Green™ rebate, but rather as a rebate
ment details will determine the exact size combination of demonstrated work experience available to any contractor/owner who demon­
of the flashing material required. But
and a written exam. strates via an acceptable certification agency that
once a specific jig is made, it will work
The program has been spearheaded by the they have met specific energy and environmental
Window flashing jig for bending end dams. Full details at for all windows and doors installed with industry through TECA, the Thermal Environ­ design criteria. Thus an R-2000 home would
the same details.
www._joneakes. com/cgi-bin/getdetailscals. cgi ? id=2062 mental Comfort Association, which was formed merit the highest rebate.
The CSA window installation stand­
in May of 2006 when two BC trade associations The Built Green™ program concentrates on
ard requires that the flashing extend
—the Heating Ventilation Cooling Institute of four areas of environmental concern: Energy
Window Installation Details upward behind the wall sheathing membrane or
BC (HVCI) and Residential Hot Water Heating Efficiency, Indoor Air Quality, Resource Use
insulating sheathing at least 2 inches (50 mm)
Association (RHWIIA) — amalgamated. (including Waste Management) and Overall
Water leaking around windows and doors is a although in areas with wind-driven rain 3 or 4
The associations have built a solid reputation Environmental Impact.
major problem. The building code requires flash­ inches could be more appropriate. In those cases
ings that will help divert water away from the where a higher backside is required, the jia Coul^ in the province through the training courses they
building. Recent changes to the building code be made out of three pieces of 3/4 inch plywood' developed to provide practical trades training to Benefits to Municipalities include:
the industry. This was largely done through the * Every home uses less energy and produces
follow the CSA-A440.4-07 Window, Door and large enough to handle that high backside and ’
volunteer work of association members. At the lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Skylight Installation standard. Thus, window and strong enough to withstand banging.
outset, these organizations focused on basic code * Every home is third-party tested and certified
door flashings now have to have end dams. On the side, the flashing must extend not less
standards and requirements, and BC provincial for energy efficiency and air tightness.
There are several ways to bend the metal than 3/4 in (19 mm) beyond the face of the win­
regulatory issues. However, it became clear * Every builder must successfully complete the
flashings that will technically satisfy the code, dow or door frame below and have a drip ed<»e to
that training and education was a bigger issue, mandatory Builder Training before they can
but some of the possibilities are still prone to prevent the backflow or runoff of water onkvthe
and the associations worked on developing a start building Built Green™ homes. This helps
leakage because the way the metal folds doesn t window or door below and terminate at each end
more fundamental training program, which was the builders to understand the "house-as-a-sys-
totally block water flow. Doing it right is a bit with an end dam not less than 1 inch (25 mm)
recently approved. tem” building science approach.
like Japanese Origami only with sheet metal in height or 1/10 the value of the 1 in 10 driving
Information: The Thermal Environmental Com­ * Every builder must take steps to lower the
which is a bit more difficult than paper. rain wind pressure in Pa.
fort Association http://teca.ca amount of waste materials generated on the
Jon Eakes has developed a simple jig made
jobsite thereby reducing the amount of con­
from a 2x4 or 2x6 block. It makes it easy to fold Certified Heating Technician
Calgary Incentives for Green struction waste going into landfills.
ends dams in a way that requires no caulking
* Every home must lower water usage.
and diverts water outward. He estimates it will A Certified Heating Technician designation Building
The Technical Research take half an hour to make the jig, so that perfect, and training program has become a provincially * Every home addresses indoor air quality.
Committee (TRC) is the As of January 1, 2007 the City of Calgary is
industry’s forum for the leak proof end dams can be made on site within recognized designation for the heating and venti­ offering rebates of 10-30% for homes built to a Information: www. builtgreencanada. ca
exchange of information a minute. The construction of the jig, and how lation industry in the residential and small com­
certified Built Green™ standard. On an average
on research and devel­ to use it is shown in a short illustrated video mercial sector in BC. This program is designated
building permit of $1600, this can amount to
opment in the housing clip available on his web site: wwwjoneakes. to fill a void, providing credentials for those Built-Green™ Levels
sector. between $ 160 and $480 per home which could
Canadian Home Build­ com (search for Header Flashing End Dams for working in the residential and small commercial easily offset some of the incremental costs asso­ Level Bronze Silver Gold
ers’ Association, Suite Windows and Doors). heating and ventilation sector in the province. ciated with joining the Built Green™ Program. Energuide Rating 72 75 77
500, 150 Laurier Ave. In essence, the jib is a block of wood with a The Certified Heating Technician program
West, Otta5wJa4, Ont. K1P slot, cut at a slope to correspond to the slope of will encompass all aspects of the industry, edu­ socTiahteio Cn a(lCgaRrHy BRAeg) iohnas H hoamd ea Blounigld-setrasn’dAins­g, Bpouiinltt-sGreen Checklist 75 80 85
Tel: [phone] the flashing across the cavity (a minimum of 6%, cating and offering designations for forced air, pro-active relationship with the City of Calgary. Calgary City Permit
Fax: [phone] although 15% is more reliable) and deep enough hydronics and geothermal tradespeople. This Based on past experience, both the City and Rebate 10% 20% 30%
e-mail: [email protected] for the upstand of flashing. You draw the cut and multi-year program will be delivered by accredit­ the CRHBA have recognized that builders who
www.chba.ca R-2000 homes meet a minimum Energuide Rating of 80.
ed trades training organizations, and will include adopt the Built Green™ program tend to build
12
SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 13
Re: Solplan Review No. 131, Re: Editor's comments (Solplan heated economy, new code changes, design over
November 2006 building science/code, and limited inspections.
Review No. 131, November 2006)
Thanks for the comments. -(Oh ya, we have seen it — leaky condos)
Re: your editorial comments. We understand that Health Canada is look­ I hope that the BOABC, Building Policy
I’ve been mulling your editorial over for some
Building officials are enforcing a set of ing at developing radon potential maps, which Branch and HPO combine forces through the
time and for the most part I agree with you on
minimum standards. If an inspector is trying to should help identify potential hot spots. We do modernization strategy to regulate the builders,
the comments regarding permits and building
MI enforce his own standard it is fair game for the know that even in radon-rich areas the radon inspections. More regulations may not be the designers and inspectors rather than the day-
Letters to contractor to ask the inspector to provide the potential for any two adjoining houses can vary> to-day building practices. Unfortunately, Big
cure to construction woes and being flexible to
Building Code article that prohibits the type of significantly. Brother will be watching and enforcing in its
new ideas and materials does not rank near the
the Editor construction he has completed. In fact, it’s a As to depressurization, unfortunately plan cumbersome way until the industry really wants
top of the list for most inspection departments.
good idea for the builder to question any un­ review will not always spot the potential for or needs to pull up its socks.
However, it is unfortunate that we as inspectors
certainty he may have about a Building Code depressurization, especially since the level of I’ve been following what’s been happening
come by it honestly through a continual battle to
requirement. Building inspectors often make depressurization depends so much on how the in New Zealand for the past 5 years. They have
enforce minimum code and bylaws. Minimum
mistaken calls, in part because they are relying construction air sealing is accomplished during totally revamped their program to address better
being “the worst you can build to legally”.
on memory or on older, more familiar versions of construction. As well, the exhaust capacity of building practices, liability and professionalism.
It would be nice to see more contractors
the Code that have long since changed. appliances often is not specified on plans, but is Hopefully we are moving in the right direction
and developers lean to long-term, quality solu­
Every inspector should be prepared to defend simply installed during or after construction. and it will pay off for the “good people” in our
tions rather than cutting costs, but I do see that
his calls and acknowledge he may be wrong from The Building Code is not sufficiently explicit industry.
happening slowly through consumer education.
time to time. I know, because I am an inspector on allowable limits, and equipment standards
There are many great developers, designers and
who enjoys a contractor’s challenge. It’s what do not adequately address the issue. As a Ken Kunka
contractors out there but the game has. become
keeps me honest and flexible. Often there are result, large exhaust appliances such as range Acting Senior Building Inspector
too complex to be good at it all and-we as an
many different ways to interpret a Code article. hoods and downdraft barbecue cooktops are not Regional District Okanagan Similkameen
industry do not work well as a team. (See Lean
That’s why every builder should be encouraged designed to facilitate installation of make-up ait- Penticton, BC
construction initiative in US and Europe www.
to use the Building Code Appeal Board. It is at interlocks when required. Ed.
leanconstruction.org).
this committee that any person can defend his Thanks for you comments. It is a difficult
To see a team work together is magic but in
opinion and argue the inspector’s interpretation issue. I understand that building officials often
most cases it looks like we are herding cats in
of a Code article. I would encourage all builders have to protect builders from themselves.
Re: Depressurization Concerns this industry! “Don’t blame me it’s not my job”
to question inspector’s calls. It keeps everyone The concern I have is that too often the build­
(Solplan Review No. 131, November seems to be a common battle cry out there.
informed and up-to-date. ing official himself/herself may’ not be comfort­
2006) In this heated economy, inspection depart­
able interpreting a code provision, or may not
Re: Radon Gas ments are stretched to the limit with most un­
understand it, so will only accept one way of do­
You didn’t mention that the east and west derstaffed to handle the demand of inspections,
That was a good summation you made on the ing something. This in effect changes or modifies
Kootenay valleys are high radon areas. There are bylaw enforcement, changing codes and products
depressurization issue. Although NRCan man­
code provisions, in some cases contrary to the
also several other areas in BC where the Code and at times acting as the project manager for
aged the contract with Kerr Heating Products, intent of the code requirements or good building
requires radon mitigation. unorganized bad builders/home owners. Most ju­
the work was undertaken largely with CMHC science principles. If the building official only
risdictions opt to only review certain parts of the
Re: Depressurization Issues funding. The Research Highlight for the project accepts one way doing a detail, builders will do
code to ensure minimum life safety requirements
Concerns such as big volume exhaust fans, prepared by CMHC will appear shortly on our it because that is the most expedient way to deal
are met and liability is low. How many home-
naturally aspirating B-vents and make-up website. with the issue, even though there may be another
owners know that when they buy a new home?
ventilation air requirements are addressed as I appreciate your excellent coverage but I way, or a technically superior way> to do it.
Maybe there are too many regulations but
BC Building Code requirements specific to the would also like to have CMHC acknowledged in Evaluating alternatives makes the official
again we come by it honestly - rules are made for
number of bedrooms and the cubic volume of air future reporting as a major player in this research liable, so risk averse jurisdictions try to dis­
the bad (indifferent) to average builders/design­
in the habitable area of the dwelling. Every new area. We will probably launch the next phase of courage equivalencies. Similarly, if the o fficial
ers, not the ones who do the right thing. Maybe
residential building since 1992 must implement the research - more laboratory testing of gas ap­ doesn’t have the technical depth, human nature
we could go back to the good old days of the
these requirements to mitigate depressurizaton. pliances - within a month or two. will mean the official will discourage alterna­
Code of Hammurabi! I see regulations protect­
Any good plan checker in a building department tives and stick with “tried and true” solutions.
ing the homeowner against their worst enemy
will advise the builder of these requirements Don Fugler, CMHC Research Divison Some of these issues could be eased if there were
- themselves - when it comes to cutting costs or
before the project begins. We enjoy your publica­ technical backup available at the provincial level
achieving an unrealistic design. I would guess
tion. Keep up the good work! Thanks for the clarification. It s good to be re­ that would provide assistance to the local official
this may get worse as the majority of long term
minded that a lot of significant research activity to give answers and remove some of the liability>
Steve Cannon inspectors are set to retire by 2010.1 would hate
is being done by a variety of agencies in coop­ concerns. Ed.
Nelson, BC to think what could happen when you have a
eration with each other. Ed.
14 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 15
You Asked Us About: Ventilation and Humidity
Re: Depressurization Concerns,
Solplan Review No. 131, November results were published by CMHC as a Research
2006 Highlight document in October 2005 (Labora­
tory Depressurization Test For Residential Gas Can you give us information about how to dried out the house excessively, which is why in
I read with great interest your article on de­ Appliances).. deal with the needfor ventilation in homes cold weather, when you walk across the room,
pressurization in the November issue of Solplan Bodycote offers this service to manufacturers with high humidity problems? The problem sparks fly.
Review. that wish to determine the susceptibility of their has come to light recently after we installed When an older, less efficient furnace is
For your information, Bodycote, as a part of products to spillage caused by depressurization. an upgraded furnace (55 % efficiency to 80 replaced with a new higher efficiency unit that
a study by CMHC and NRCan, developed a de­ is power vented or direct vented, the B-vent
%) into an older home.
pressurization spillage test protocol and conduct­ Haigo Tikiryan is sealed up since it is no longer needed. As
ed a series of controlled laboratory tests using a Bodycote, EV, Missassauga, ON a result, the incidental air change through the
variety of residential gas-fired appliances. Seven Mississauga, Ontario house is reduced. Without the air movement, the
appliances were tested in this project. The test www. bodycoletesting, com I suspect that what has happened is the con­ humidity level remains higher. To manage the
sequence of unintended consequences. When humidity levels, ventilation must be introduced.
the more efficient furnace was installed, which The solution to the problem will depend on
is advisable from an environmental and energy how tight the house has become, and what other
BC Building Code Change Seminars
efficiency perspective, the venting regime was open combustion appliances there are in the
changed. With the new furnace you no longer house. An air tightness test should be done to de­
Volunteers from various associations in BC have an open vent that drew air from the house. termine whether or not there are depressurization
along with the BC Building Policy Branch, have Thus the passive air change has been reduced, to concerns in the house. The minimum approach
developed a comprehensive two-day building the point that higher humidities are now toler­ would be to provide continuous exhaust-only
code seminar focusing on the latest changes to ated, leading to condensation on colder surfacesA ventilation, using a high efficiency, quiet bath­
Ventilation is needed in homes to provide air room fan such as a Panasonic Whisper Green
the BC Building Code.
change to maintain good indoor quality for the Fan set to operate no less that 8 hours in 24. If
The two-day seminars are being offered in
occupants of the house. Air change will also balanced ventilation is needed, a heat recovery
nine locations across British Columbia in Febru­
control indoor relative humidity. ventilator may need to be installed.
ary and March 2007. Presenters will provide il­
High humidity and condensation problems There is a fair bit of documentation about ven­
lustrated explanations of the significant changes.
that show up after a furnace upgrade underline tilation. We wrote a book a number of years ago
On day one parts 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 of the Code
the house-as-a-sysmm principle. The house- - Residential Ventilation: Achieving Indoor Air
are covered, and on day two Part 7 (plumbing)
as-a-system principle recognizes that all parts
Quality;. The basic descriptive material is still
and Part 9 are covered, as well as a presentation
of a house are interrelated - they are not just an
applicable today. The subject is also covered in
of the City of Vancouver Building Bylaw [in the
assembly of independent components. In the
the CHBA Builder’s Manual and numerous other
Vancouver and Lower Mainland locations only].
Advertisment in a Victoria newspaper: case of a home renovation or upgrade, this may publications. Ed.
Registrants will be given an illustrated code
Siders and siders helpers required, no be accentuated when some items are installed or
change guide, which includes a comprehensive
experience necessaiy, must have vehicle. modified. Some may have a more severe impact
table of changes. The guide will also include Fax resume. on other portions.
additional materials, including information on
Do you think this may be a reason why we An increase in humidity within the house K.W. DOORS & WINDOWS
accessing the changes in the 2006 BC Fire Code.
have building envelope problems? and the resultant condensation problems can be
The guide is included in the registration fee and
explained by a number of things.
♦ Eclipse Folding Door Systems
is not available for sale separately.
The older house may well have been quite
Attendance at the full two-day session is ♦ Douglas Fir Doors & Windows
Climate Change Notes airtight. Older gas-fired combustion appli­
required for all Building Officials Association of ances rely on a B-vent as a chimney. The flue ♦ European Hardware Specialists
BC members to recertify to the new 2006 BCBC. Sir John Houghton, director general of the
dynamics require a certain amount of house air
A full schedule and more information is UK's Meteorological Office, told a farming con­ be drawn up the flue, to be mixed with the flue Phone/fax: [phone]
available from the BOABC Office at (604) 270- ference in Oxford, England, that climate change
gases themselves so that the correct amount of
1-800-477-1577
9516 or on their web site: www.boabc.org under was now irreversible. The UK Secretary of State
air moves through the flue to maintain a draft.
“What’s New.” for the Environment, David Miliband, said that The forced draw of air out of the house ensured Visit us at www.kwdoorsandwindows.com
Britons would have to change every aspect of
that older homes had a certain amount of air-
their lives if they are to tackle climate change. In change on a seasonal basis and maximum when £ WINDOW
an interview with the children's newspaper First ■■and DOOR
the appliance was operating. That way, humidity
News, Mr Miliband admitted that people had was kept in check and in cold weather it actually MAASSNOUFCAICATTURIOERNS
been "short-sighted" in tackling environmental
problems.
16 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 17
Energy Answers
Solplan Review Back issues
How difficult will it be to achieve a modern high effectiveness, low wattage air-to-air heat 2. Canada is not as sunny as Denver. With A limited number of back issues are avail­
Net Zero Energy Use house in Canada? exchanger. less sun in Canada, greater amounts of photo­ able, at a special price of $5.75 each (plus 6%
5. LAME (Lights, Appliances and Miscel­ GST).
voltaic panels and solar thermal panels will be
Bundle special: a random selection of back
laneous Energy) requirements were minimized
Difficult, but not impossible. needed. issues (minimum 22 copies) are available for
by using compact fluorescent lamps, and Energy
Although there have been a few examples in 3. The choice of windows for a Net Zero only $65.00 (plus 6% GST)
Star appliances.
other countries, to date no one, to my knowledge, house in Canada is crucial. On the south side you Solplan Review
6. Backup space heating and domestic wa­
has achieved this ambitious target in Canada. want to emphasize a high solar heat gain factor Box 86627
ter heating are provided mostly by natural gas,
For an article on a house in Denver that has with a relatively good thermal resistance value. North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2
achieved Net Zero status with energy records to although there are also baseboard electric heaters On the north, east, and west, a high thermal e-mail: [email protected]
in each of the bedrooms.
prove it, have a look at http://www.so/ar2006. resistance value is needed.
org/presentations/forums/f06-norton.pdf 4. Excellent appliances and lighting with low f ‘ \
On an annual basis, the house is a net exporter And probably the most important factor in the energy consumption will be needed. Even small energy efficient, sustainable, and healthy buildings
Rob Dumont of energy. (The on-site photovoltaic generated outstanding performance of the house is that the electrical loads such as the electrical loads of design & consulting services
electricity exceeds the purchased electricity and occupants were involved in building the house TVs, VCRs, etc. when they are off will have to R-2000 File Management
natural gas for the home.) (through Habitat for Humanity). Informed own­ be addressed. HOT-2000 Analysis
SuperE™ House Program Design Professional
ers are a key factor in achieving high perform­
Denver has a heating climate similar to 5. Occupant education will be needed. Leav­
ance. Richard Kadulski Architect
Vancouver, but it also has some of the best solar ing a single 100 watt light bulb running continu­
radiation availability in the world. Denver is also The largest incremental cost for the enemy ously requires 876 kilowatt hours per year or
further south than any location in Canada, and features in the house was the photovoltaic sys­ roughly $10,000 worth of Photovoltaic equip­ #204 - 1037 West Broadway
no location in Canada has such favourable solar tem, which cost about $35,000 US installed. ment to supply that load. Feedback devices that Vancouver, B.C. V6H 1E3
conditions. give instantaneous readings of whole-house Tel: [phone]
Given the success of the Denver Net Zero electricity usage, as discussed in the last issue Fax: [phone]
House, what lessons can be applied to a of Solplan Review, will be needed. And yes, a e-mail: [email protected]
How did the Denver house do it?
Canadian effort at Net Zero? Canadian Net Zero house is unlikely to have a
48-inch TV set.
Here are several characteristics that stand out:
1. The house is modest in floor area at 1290 “Example is the school of mankind; and they
In February of 2007, CMHC and The speedi-sleeve® - a fitting solution for4"0HRV
feet (120 square metres) and does not have a will learn at no other.” Edmund Burke
NRCan will announce the winners of the Ceiling Grilles and Diffusers and 2"0 Hi-Velocity Diffusers
basement. A smaller house obviously needs less Here are a few thoughts based on t.he Denver
energy. example: Net Zero Energy Healthy Housing Com­
petition. I will be very surprised if the
2. The house is sited and oriented with the
winners do not resemble the Denver Net
long axis running east-west so that passive and 1. Canada is generally colder than Denver
active solar systems can be used. Photovoltaic As a consequence, even higher insulation levels Zero House adapted to Canadian climatic
conditions.
panels (4 kW peak) and a larger solar domestic should be used. An old formula for optimizing
hot water system (96 square feet) were placed on insulation levels suggests, other things being
the south-facing roof. equal, that the optimum R-value is proportional
3. The house is very well insulated compared to the square root of the annual heating degree
with conventional houses in Denver. The house days. The optimization formula also says that the
has R60 (RSI 10.6) attic insulation with raised optimum R-value is proportional to the square
heel trusses, R40 in the walls (two parallel wood root of the cost of the energy supplied. As no
stud walls were used along with unfaced glass place in Canada has as favourable a solar radia­ ...for retrofit
applications,
fibre insulation) and R30 in the floor over the tion climate as Denver, the optimum R-values in
crawlspace. a Canadian Net Zero House will be much higher ... available try adding a
sealed to a clamping ring
The windows are primarily on the south side; than those used in the Denver House.
4/5 increaser
the south windows emphasize solar gain, the R-values in the attic of the order of R100 (RSI
for connecting
north, east, and west windows stress high R-val- 17.5) are likely in the right ballpark for many to 5"0 duct
ues. A three-foot roof overhang on the south side parts of Canada. High values will also be needed
limits overheating in the cooling season. for the walls, doors, and building floor. ENEREAPY PRODUCTS LTD„
4. The house is very well sealed and uses a
#4 - 6420 Beresford Street • Burnaby • British Columbia CANADA • V5E 1 B6
Telephone: [phone] • Fax: [phone] • www.enereadyproducts.com
18 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2007 19
NIC CMC
New Design Guide for Controlling
Flanking Sound
ceiving room. In other words, flanking transmis­ m
IRC website. The Guide will help designers j . /
sion is sound transmission between two rooms
choose the structural elements, fire blocks and
Designers and builders are constantly faced by paths other than the direct path through the
connections at the junctions of partition walls
with the challenge of building housing that separating wall or floor assembly (Figure 1).
By Trevor Nightingale and floors to prevent flanking without resorting
meets sound insulation targets, and does so cost Flanking occurs in all buildings and its
to over-design, or redundancy, which is a waste
Dr. Trevor Nightingale is effectively. The NRC Institute for Research in importance in determining the sound isolation
of both money and materials. To ensure their
a senior research officer Construction has been active for many years in perceived by occupants is a function of the con­
practicality, the details and approaches in the
in the Indoor Environment developing new techniques and approaches to struction details of the wall/floor interfaces, in
Guide were developed with the assistance of a
Program at the NRC control sound transmission and has presented addition to the floor and wall assemblies indi­
Institute for Research in these to Solplan Review readers from time to vidually. steering committee composed of technical repre­
Construction. He can be time. An article in 2003 reported progress on The apparent transmission includes both the sentatives from each of the supporting partners
reached by e-mail at trevor. (see sidebar).
controlling flanking sound involving the floor direct transmission through the wall and the ad­
nightingale@nrc. ca. The Guide demonstrates that the higher the
assembly. Since then work has been expanded to ditional energy transmitted by flanking transmis­
level of sound isolation required, the more
include flanking involving sidewalls and ceilings sion via structure-bome paths. Thus the resulting
important flanking, and its prevention, becomes.
in both row and apartment housing. That phase apparent-STC is lower than the STC rating for
For a building to achieve an apparent-STC rat­
of the work has now been completed and there­ direct transmission through the nominally sepa­
ing of 50 or more, flanking must be considered at
fore it is time to update readers. rating element (a wall shown in Figure 1). From
the design stage and details must be constructed Figure 2. New NRC-IRCflanking research facility
First, a quick review of flanking sound is in the occupants’ perspective, all that matters is
that are consistent with this desired level of
order. The sound isolation between adjacent the overall sound isolation between the adjacent sound isolation. The Guide provides practical To download the Guide, go to the NRC-IRC Web site at
rooms in a building is often much less than spaces, including the effect of all transmission solutions and examples of assemblies that can
http://irc.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/pubs/rr/rr219/. The Guide includes
would be expected from the rated STC of the paths. For airborne sound, the apparent-STC achieve high levels of sound isolation based hyperlinks to related AutoCAD architectural drawings.
separating wall or floor. This happens because, provides a standardized estimate of this sound on a systems approach, which helps minimize
in addition to direct transmission through the isolation. any added cost of controlling flanking. Several The supporting technical information, and the basis for the
separating construction (which is what the STC To address the problem of flanking noise, details for wood-frame hotels, residential homes, Guide is also available at http://irc.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/pubs/rr/rr218/
indicates), the sound causes structure-borne NRC-IRC researchers studied the effect of using row housing, and apartments are provided.
vibration in all surfaces of the source room. continuous structural elements that pass under
Some of this vibration is transmitted across
a partition wall between two horizontally-sepa­ With the completion of the initial research and
The Guide is the outcome of four research projects conducted
the surfaces (walls, floors or ceiling), and some rated multi-family dwellings—for example, the publication of this new design tool, NRC-
over eight years. The industry partners were Canada Mortgage
passes through the junctions where these surfaces subfloor sheathing and joists. In addition to IRC researchers will make use of its recently
connect. This flanking sound radiates into the re- and Housing Corporation, Forintek Canada Corporation, Mar­
varying structural continuity, the researchers also commissioned world-class facility (Figure 2)
riott International, Owens Corning, Weyerhaeuser, USG, and
systematically investigated the effect of chang­ to begin a new series of flanking experiments
NRC-IRC.
ing joist type, blocking details at the wall/floor to expand the knowledge base and the types of
-\ junction, and type of partition wall. The most wood framing and floor treatments appearing in
Direct
transmission severe flanking tends to involve the subfloor the Guide.
Sound surfaces coupled by the wall/floor junction, but The ultimate goal is to create interactive
/
v transmission
r heard by when flanking paths involving the subfloor are web-based design software that will allow users Taxing the Sun?
Flanking via occupants effectively treated, other paths involving ceilings to determine the apparent-STC rating of various
other surfaces and sidewalls become important. In the most re­ combinations of wood-frame assemblies easily Governments concentrate on oil and gas because of need for a
revenue stream. The government hasn’t figured out how to tax solar
cent project, which is now complete, researchers and accurately.
energy, so they don’t encourage it. Is this why solar energy is not given
characterized ceiling and sidewall flanking paths
serious attention?
7=?- •Subfloor and developed necessary solutions. Providing leadership is a role for the public sector - the government
■ Joists/cavity The research showed that flanking transmis­
should be considered the Stewart of the environment for the common
•Ceiling sion can be controlled, and sound isolation
good. It’s time to put pressure on all levels of government to ensure that
(both airborne and impact) maintained, through
they act swiftly and meaningfully.
the proper design of details. These advances in
knowledge have been captured in a new Design
Lower - Guide for apartment and row housing published
partition in March 2006, and available free on the NRC-
wall
Figure 1. Flanking sound transmission
National Research Conseil national
l+l
Council Canada de recherches Canada