Solplan Review No 138

6.1 MB·English

by  Richard Kadulski

N/o. 13o8 li—| pi* an rev0i eJwanuary 2008
B
the independent journal of energy conservation, building science & construction practice
Inside . . .
Reflective Insulation Systems............................3 Letter to the Editor................................................12
Beware of “Radiant Barrier Paint”......................5 Unvented Vaulted Ceiling Performance
Geothermal Systems...........................................6 Test Results.................................................13
Masonry Fireplaces...............................................8 You Asked Us About: Environmentally
What Were They Thinking Of?...........................9 preferable Furnace And Water Heaters 15
Technical Research Committee News................11 Energy Answers...................................................16
Radon Guidelines Gypsum Board Performance in Fire Rated
Floor Assemblies........................................18
Reflective Insulation Systems
2 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 3
From the Editor .. .
Reflective Insulation Systems
So you think that energy prices are too high? The greedy monthly report before or since shows oil production at
oil barons are just getting fatter at your expense? There may or above the 74 million barrel per day mark. In other
Reflective insulation products have interest­ fies it as a vapour barrier, because the building
be some truth to such ideas, but fundamentally it is a bigger words, there is evidence that peak oil has already passed
ing properties. In some applications, they are code defines a vapour barrier as having a perme­
issue that is also behind the critical climate change issue we and most have not noticed yet. An analysis of worldwide
extremely effective insulation materials. Think ability less than 60 ng/Pa-sec-m2.
are facing today. resources, including our tar sands, shows declining total of spacecraft and astronauts - they would not The Nova Scotia Home Builders Association
Oil has been a part of our industrial society for only about production. However, world petroleum demand continues be able to survive without taking advantage of issued a product alert recently. They point out
150 years. In that short time, we have used up a major portion to grow, and we’re all guilty. reflective insulation materials. However, the that the Nova Scotia Department of Labour &
of the oil that took millennia to be created and also impacted The passage of peak oil in such a short time of human extreme conditions experienced in space do Environment and the Nova Scotia Department of
the global ecosystem. The debate about “Peak Oil” (the point exploitation of oil resources that took millennia to create not match the conditions found in the average Energy have been reviewing the activities of the
at which worldwide production peaks, and starts to decline) is a sad commentary on humanity’s inability to manage building. companies promoting and distributing P-2000.
has been raging for a number of years. Optimists - mostly oil the resources we were given on earth. Similarly, animal bams, industrial buildings They believe there is sufficient information to
industry types - still argue that peak oil is years away. So what has all this to do with building, you ask? and ice rinks are usually poorly insulated. In a warrant a complaint against these companies and
While there is much speculation that the recent jump The building sector accounts for about one-third of total poorly insulated building, especially industrial individuals under the Competition Act for mak­
in prices is influenced by geopolitical fears, the Iraq war, energy consumption for the construction and operation of or agricultural, any improvement will provide ing false and misleading representations -
Nigerian political unrest, or simple oil industry profiteering, homes and businesses. We know that we can do signifi­ significant performance improvements, and in representation not based on adequate and proper
there are more fundamental issues involved. In real eco­ cant improvements. We can build homes and buildings these environments reflective products provide tests, and untrue, misleading or unauthorized use
nomic terms, oil prices have been low for a long time - $100 that are very nearly energy independent, even in the cold some benefits. of tests and testimonials. A complaint was lodged
a barrel oil is the equivalent of 15 cents a cup. While we have regions of Canada. We just need to take action. Sadly, However, these gains cannot be applied July 13, 2006.
no problems spending money - $2 for a small bottle of water, too many in our industry merely pay lip service to the across the board to all building types and all ' Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc. wrote in a
$5 for a cup of coffee, $15 for a movie or $100 for a sports need for more energy efficiency. applications. Yet we see persistent exploitation letter on May 24, 2006:
event - we whine when we need to pay $1 for a litre of gaso­ When proposals for upgrades to energy efficiency of extreme examples as a rationalization and ilWe are aware that our name has been used
line for our vehicle. Other than municipal water, nothing of or environmental standards are made, we see a lot of marketing tool for reflective insulation products. in connection with misleading R-va/ue claims
It’s almost as if the marketers catch sight of their being made by Royalty’s Research & Develop­
any genuine value in the world is sold as cheaply as refineries resistance.
reflection in the mirrored surface and enter into a ment (RR&D) Enterprises and some distributors
purchase crude oil. When we plan for and undertake work for new building
trance where they lose all sense of reality. of P-2000foam insulation. Intertek did conduct
It was interesting to come across a paper prepared by and renovatio.ns, we need to become more aggressive with comparative testing on P-2000 andfiberglass insu­
When looking at performance improvement
a major American investment banker serving the energy steps to reduce the environmental impact of the building lation products and issued RR&D Enterprises a test
claims it is important to use some discretion to
industry. He, an industry insider, was decrying how the oil sector. This means not only low embodied energy content report. As outlined in the test report, the testing was
ensure their suitability for specific applications.
industry is living in a state of denial about oil production. for materials with recycled content, but also the energy conducted per the client s criteria and not in ac­
Unfortunately, too many builders and designers cordance with established, consensus standards or
Apparently, the oil industry reserve statistics everyone relies efficiency of the whole building.
are seduced by slick marketing to use products methods. As such, this data should not be compared
on, despite their veneer of scientific accuracy, are not much
in an inappropriate manner. Foil-faced products to test data derivedfrom standards-based test meth­
more than a collection of self-reported figures from industry. can be used in the right location, for the right ods nor used as a method of demonstrating code
What is accurate are the production figures. application. Regrettably, they are being pushed compliance. In violation oflntertek’s terms and
In May 2005, crude oil production reached a worldwide Richard Kadulski, for inappropriate applications that do not even conditions, RR&D Enterprises released market­
all-time high at 74.3 million barrels a day. This was the Editor comply with the building code. ing material using Intertek s name and report date
without approval.
first time the world ever produced this much oil. No other The P-2000 Insulation is one product that is ”
Natural Resources Canada, in a March 2007
misleading many builders. P-2000 is a type 1
release entitled: “The Effective Thermal Re­
expanded polystyrene insulation foam board that
solplan review Postage paid in Vancouver, BC. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: include a mailing label sistance of Foil-Faced Bubble Insulation and
is foil-faced for use in residential and commer­
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to or copy all information off label for faster, accurate
other Similar Products Recognized by Natural
mtfpmnrMrt | purt*/ o/ co*ryy corat*v»%on bv&no tctfK* C carutrucbon pr»csc* PO Box 86627, North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2 processing. cial buildings.
Editor-Publisher: Richard Kadulski CSeOrPvYicResIG LHtdT. A2l0l 0r7ig bhyts T rhees eDrrvaewdi.ng-Room Graphic CmOanNuTsRcrIBipUtsT IwOeNlcSo: mUen.s oIlnicciltuedd ec osnetlrfi-baudtidorness asnedd The manufacturer’s installation details on RHeosmoeusr cuens dCear nitasd Ea nfeorrg tyh eH Pouurspinogse I noift iMatoivdee”l ing
Illustrations: Terry Lyster Reproduction without written permission of the pre-stamped mailer if return requested. Publisher their web site show how to install their foil­
Contributors: Kendra Slack, Rob Dumont, Paul stated:
PGelattsinpears, ,J aEnreict AGneserlrlits, C.J. Schumacher, Troy pdounb'lti stahkere ihs esetrdic ntloyt ef:o rtbhied dseonu.n Tdr yaonus ghreeasrs owristh w nhoot Wannohdt i rlceeo sempvopenrlseyit bee lfeifn offrootr r milso amstsio aondr,e dw taoem dpaorgo nevo iodtf ew s aaacmrrcaeun.r ta toer ftoa cteadp em tahtee jroiailn tosn. tTheh iesx wteirlli ohre olpf trheed uhcoeu sthee arnmda l “If modeling a reflective foil film with or without
ISSN: 0828-6574 be Jack Frost knocking at the door. a laminated layer offoam or fibre based insula­
guarantee the accuracy and completeness of bridging and to achieve a more airtight building
Date of Issue: February 2008 A license for photocopying or other reprographic such information. tion board and there is a dead air space of 12-22
SOLPLAN REVIEW is published 6 times per year by: copying can be also be obtained from Access ADVERTISING POLICY: Publisher's discretion envelope. However, as any building professional mm fi/2 - I ”) NRCan will accept an RSI value of
the drawing-room graphic services ltd. Copyright (Canadian Copyright Licensing Agency, 1 in the acceptance of any advertisement. knows, low permeability materials must always 0.26 (R-1.5) for the foil and dead air space. If a
PO Box 86627, North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2 Yonge St., Suite 800, Toronto, ON M5E 1E5).
No endorsement is stated or implied by the be placed on the warm side of the assembly. The layer of insulation is laminated to the foil with its
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] SUBSCRIPTIONS: In Canada 1 year$52.50 (incl publisher.
e-mail: [email protected] GST) (NB, NS, NF $56.50 includes HST); 2 years PRINTED IN CANADA problem is that the foil-faced P-2000 material has adjacent air space, then also add the insulation s
Street address: $93.97 (incl GST) (NB, NS, NF $101.13 includes GST Registration: R105208805 a permeability of 31 ng/Pa-sec-m2, which quali­ RSI/R-value. As noted, if there is no air space, then
#204 - 1037 West Broadway HST). USA and other foreign payable in US $ 1 SOLPLAN is a registered trademark of the
Vancouver, BC V6H 1E3
year $57.00, 2 years $103.50. Drawing-Room Graphic Services Ltd.
Publications Mail Agreement No. 40013363
4 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 5
The Physics of Radiant Barriers installed in vented cavities (like attics), it is not
an insulation material per se and has no inherent
A “radiant barrier” is a reflective/low-emit- R-value.
just calculate the value of the insulat ion (single­ The absence of an airspace on either side of
layer foil membranes without an air space have an any foil insulation prevents any additional reflec­ tance surface as defined by ASTM where the Radiant Barrier Systems
RSI/R-value of 0). ” tive thermal resistance. In such applications emittance is 0.10 or less on or near a building
The challenge facing builders and designers a foil bubble pack product can be expected to component that intercepts the flow of radiant A “radiant barrier system” is a building sec­
is that some sales people are telling them that provide a maximum of R-1.5 (RSI-0.26), assum­ energy to and from the building component. tion that includes a radiant barrier facing an air
P-2000 has R-values as high as R-27 for a 1 -inch ing the bubbles remain intact and unperforated. The aluminum foil shields that are commonly space. An attic with a radiant barrier on top of
panel. In fact P-2000 has an R-value of 3.89 per A CMHC Research study that found that bubble inserted behind radiators in older houses are radi­ the mass insulation on the floor, or under the roof
inch thickness based on P-2000’s own tests using pack insulation provided little value when used ant barriers, blocking radiant heat transfer from is a radiant barrier system.
their foil-faced board (RSI 0.684). the radiator to the exterior wall.
in an under-floor slab application. The R-value of
From Understanding and Using Reflective Insula­
CHBA’s Technical Research Committee has It should be clearly understood that al­
a concrete slab floor with bubble-pack under the tion, Radiant Barriers And Radiation Control Coatings
also pointed out that reflective vapour/air barrier though a radiant barrier reduces heat loss and
slab was only R-2.3 (RSI-0.4). by Reflective Insulation Manufacturers Association
products and reflective sheathing can, if properly gain through the building envelope because it is
Yet we hear that builders are using foil-faced www.rima.net
installed, provide additional thermal resistance
insulation products under the slab to claim an R-
to wall and ceiling assemblies, but to do so the
12 because that is what the product sales people
Beware of “Radiant Barrier Paint”
surfaces must face an airspace.
tell them. Simply put, that is not correct. Foil
The Canadian Construction Materials Centre
insulation should not be used under a slab-on-
at the National Research Council has limited grade. Builders should be aware of the risk they There has been a lot of talk lately about radi­ ered as a low-emittance coating when applied to
listings for assemblies using reflective materials take in compromising the performance of their ant barrier paint. The problem is, according to building materials such as plywood, OSB, metal
to wall assemblies only, and has indicated that floor systems relying on such bogus claims. O definitions set forth by the American Society of siding or plasterboard according to the manufac­
the thermal resistance of a 3/4” airspace with two Testing and Materials International (ASTM), turer’s installation instruction, and will have an
reflective surfaces would be R-3.46 (RSI-0.61) there is no such product currently available. impact of lowering the surface emittance to less
for wall applications. There are low-emittance paints, which are also than 0.25. These products work by changing the
known as interior radiation control coatings. emittance of the surface where it is applied.
Reflective Insulation Under Floors These products have some benefits, however, When high emmittance materials such as
many companies are marketing a “radiant bar­ gypsum board, plywood, brick are heated above
A reflective film, bubble pack or otherwise,
the reflective foil approaches R-50. However, rier” paint, and there is a difference. the temperature of adjacent surfaces, they radiate
does not provide insulating value under a con­
it is important to stress that this applies only to A radiant barrier is a low-emittance surface heat energy to cooler surfaces. An IRCC lowers
crete slab, whether it is a slab-on-grade, or a
a horizontal element. In a vertical application, facing an air space. The thermal performance or their surface emittance reducing the ability to
basement floor. However, there is one location
convection currents would overwhelm the space the reduction of radiant heat transfer is propor­ radiate heat.
where reflective films provide significant insula­
and there is no significant insulating value. tional to the surface emittance of the radiant The Reflective Insulation Manufacturers As­
tion values and that is under a floor joist system.
barrier material. Emittances of materials range sociation (RIMA) conducted testing of several
Reflective Insulation In The Attic
In the case of a floor joist system (see fig 1), between zero (no radiant heat transfer) to one (a low-emittance paints in 2006 measuring the sur­
provided the floor is properly sealed and airtight, Reflective surfaces in the attic are used in the black surface with maximum radiant heat transfer face emittance of several paint products claiming
convection cur­ southern US to reduce air conditioning loads. A rate). Common building materials, such as reflective benefits that ultimately didn’t even
Finished Floor rents are sup­ reflective foil is tacked to the underside of the wood, masonry, fiberglass insulation and gyp­ meet the qualifications for an IRCC, let alone a
pressed because roof rafters or trusses to create a radiant barrier sum board have high surface emittances of 0.8 radiant barrier. Seventeen products were tested,
the upper portion is system. This is a simple way to reduce sum­ or greater and therefore have high radiant heat but only four products met the qualifications for
warmer. The heat mer overheating. However, they do nothing to
transfer rates. Products defined as radiant bar­ an IRCC. So, not only are lRCCs not radiant bar­
is reflected back, reduce space heating loads.
riers by ASTM have a reflective/low-emittance riers but some paints are not even lRCCs.
reducing heat loss,
surface with an emittance of 0.10 or less. Depending on the project, both radiant bar­
and still air itself
ASTM calls paint an interior radiation control riers and lRCCs might be able to contribute to
is a good insulator.
coating (IRCC) if the IR emittance is 0.25 or less the overall thermal performance of a building.
Theoretical cal­
(ASTM C-1321, Standard Practice for Installa­ However, it is important to be aware of what the
culations suggest
tion and Use of Interior Radiation Control Coat­ properties are for low-emittance paints. If it’s
that the R-value or This comes from a press
ing Systems in Building Systems). The ASTM being called a ‘radiant barrier paint’ - Beware!
Fig. 1. Foil-faced insulation under floor joist system the air space plus release issued by Maty
standard also identifies the method for measuring Check the emittance, ask for test data and make
with in-floor heating. Floor assembly must be airtight. Edmondson. Executive
the emittance (C 1371, Test Method for Deter­ sure it meets ASTM standards before you buy.
Director of the Reflective
mination of Emittance of Materials near Room More information on radiant barriers and re­ Insulation Manufacturers
Temperature Using Portable Emissometers). flective insulation is available from the Reflective Association (RIMA).
Interior radiation control coatings are not Insulation Manufacturers Association.O www.rima.net
dependent on their thickness. They are consid­
6 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 7
Geothermal Systems
Geothermal heating and cooling systems (also or more factory-made components that normally of dwellings. This is quite a common approach
called earth energy systems, ground-source heat include an indoor fan coil, compressor(s) and re- in Scandinavia. We now have a number of dis­ The Manitoba Geothermal Energy Alliance (MGEA) is a separate
pumps or GeoExchange™ systems) are heat ffigerant-to-fluid heat exchanger(s). In addition, trict heating systems installed in Canada, and this non-profit, Manitoba-based industry association with a focus to pro­
pumps that take advantage of the ground’s heat­ some or all of the domestic water heating can practice will increase with time. vide information, education, training, certification and resources for the
ing and cooling properties (the same properties be provided through the use of a desuperheater, Although geothermal systems offer proven growing geoexchange industry in Manitoba. MGEA and the CGC signed
that make any basement cooler in the summer integrated demand water heater or a separately economic benefits in Canada, their application a formal partnership agreement on December 11, 2007 to fully coordi­
and warmer in the winter) to heat or cool entire installed compressor that provides demand water has largely been in areas under-served by natural nate national and local programs in the province of Manitoba.
buildings. For heating, they collect and transfer heating. It uses the thermal energy of the ground gas. Market penetration for geothermal systems
For information: www.mgea.ca
heat from the earth through fluid-filled, buried or groundwater as the heat source and heat sink is still less than 1%. A major barrier to growing
pipes running to a building, where the heat is for residential space heating and cooling. the industry has been a lack of an infrastrtfcture
GeoExchange BC is a separate non-profit, BC-based industry asso­
then concentrated for inside use. These systems In cooling mode, typical central air condition­ ensuring high professional standards and capac­
ciation. It is our understanding that discussions are underway to facili­
can efficiently provide space heating and cool­ ers may have a SEER of 13 or higher, while geo­ ity. The lack of a properly trained and accred­
tate the delivery of the CGC training and other programs in BC. They
ing, cooling-only or heating-only functions. thermal systems may have an energy efficiency ited pool of installation and service/contractors
are also working with the Thermal Environmental Comfort Association
Although cooling-only and heating-only are pos­ rating of around 20. With window and central air including in the design community, has been
(TECA) in their initiative for the Certified Heating Technician (CHT)
sible, these are not commonly used and are not as conditioners, as the outdoor temperature increas­ identified as a bottleneck to the growth of the
Program that is now registering apprentices.
economical. Doing both heating and cooling as es, the energy efficiency rating decreases, thus industry.
well as domestic hot water improves the opera­ increasing power consumption. On the other Today the industry is using the term “Geo- For information: www.geoexchangebc.ca
tion and efficiency of the system thus eliminating hand, geothermal systems operate at roughly the Exchange™” to describe these systems. The
the need for separate furnace, air-conditioning same efficiency rating regardless of the outdoor Canadian GeoExchange Coalition (CGC) was
and hot water heater systems. temperature, which is important in areas that may created in 2003 at the initiative of the Canadian For more information including a current list
Ground-source heat pumps do not create have electrical systems that are at brownout or Electricity Association and industry stakeholders of accredited installers, designers, and drillers,
heat through combustion - they simply move near brownout conditions. with support from Natural Resources Canada to contact the Canadian GeoExchange Coalition at
heat from one place to another. This heat ‘ex­ In the heating mode, geothermal systems foster the development of the ground-source heat www.geo-exchange.ca or 1-514-807-7559.
change’ between the ground and the building is add electric demand compared with fossil fuels. pump industry in Canada. One of the key actions
accomplished by using conventional pump and However, compared to electric resistance space by the CGC is the development of professionally
compressor technology to provide an alterna­ heating (baseboards, electric furnaces) geother­ accredited Canadian geothermal drillers, install­
tive to traditional oil-, or gas -fired heating, and mal systems reduce electrical demand, and avoid ers and designers. Industry professionals are Coefficient of Performance (COP) - A
air conditioning (HVAC) systems. In locations emissions when the electricity is generated by being accredited and a comprehensive training measure of efficiency in the heating mode that
where electricity is a major, or preferred fuel op­ hydro or other renewable sources. In general and certification program is being introduced to represents the ratio of total heating capacity to
tion, the high efficiency of these systems reduces geothermal systems reduce the total amount of address the limited availability of experienced electrical energy input.
electricity use significantly. Geothermal is best purchased energy because of the higher coeffi­ drillers, installers and designers. Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) - A measure
for locations with space (as in the countryside), cient of performance (COP). To receive EN­ The CGC Global Quality GeoExchange Pro­ of efficiency in the cooling mode that represents
where there is no gas, and as a replacement for ERGY STAR qualification, ground-source heat gram® is a Canadian developed comprehensive the ratio of total cooling capacity to electrical
oil, propane and electric resistance heating. pumps must achieve a minimum COP of 3.3 for voluntary quality assurance program. It includes energy input. For DX systems, the EER is calcu­
A ground-source heat pump consists of one closed loop systems, 3.6 for open loop, and 3.5 training and accreditation for drillers, designers lated in accordance with CSA Standard C748-94
for direct expansion (DX). and installers; qualification of design firms and Performance of Direct Expansion (DX) Ground
Ground-source heat pumps are especially effi­ installation contractors; certification of GeoEx­ Source Heat Pump conditions.
The energy resource in the ground is tapped several ways
cient in locations where there are also substantial change projects; and arbitration between parties.
^Through a Closed Loop System in which the heat transfer fluid is cooling loads, and where the primary heating The CGC training courses were developed by There are federal minimum energy performance
contained in a closed system; option is electricity. The high COP means that industry specialists and researchers during the requirements for both ground-source (closed
the same amount of heat can be provided for less past three years. The training includes four mod­
^Through an Open Loop System in which the heat transfer fluid is part loop) and water-source (open loop) heat pumps.
energy input. For new homes, the system design ules — a drillers’ course, an installers’ course, a
of a larger environment. The most common open loop systems use Performance ratings are determined by test
ground water or surface water as the heat transfer medium; can be optimized to match lower heating loads residential designers’ course and a commercial method CSA Cl3256-1, must be verified by a For information on the R-
and the ground loop infrastructure will have less designers’ course. Courses have been offered 2000 Program, contact
3rd party, and reported to NRCan. Efficiency
^Direct Expansion (DX) in which the refrigerant is circulated in pipes
impact on the site when installed during con­ across the country by qualified trainers in coop­ your local program
requirements can be found at
buried in the ground, rather than using a heat transfer fluid (such as
struction. In new developments, the higher ini­ eration with CGC partners since February 2007. http://oee. nrcan. gc. ca/regnlations/ office, or
water or antifreeze) in a separate closed loop and fluid-to-refrigerant tial cost of geothermal systems can be offset by Successful completion of one of the courses is http://oee. nrcan. gc. ca/
ian2005 ground-water-heat-pumps.
heat exchanger. A DX system includes all of the equipment both inside
using the systems as a community heating energy required in order to obtain industry driven pro­ cfm?text=N&print\>iew=N (follow links to residential)
and outside the house. system, where a single system serves a number fessional accreditation in Canada. www.R-2000.ca
8 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 9
What Were They Thinking Of?
ecoENERGY Retrofit - Grants for Geothermal
Systems
Most single family houses are built by build­ many job sites. It is always instructive to note
The ecoENERGY Retrofit - Homes grant pro­ Coalition and provide a copy to the homeowner. ers with minimal outside professional involve­ the many ways that best intentions get side­
gram (which is matched in some jurisdictions by The homeowner must then show this copy to ment other than the review done by the local tracked. It is amazing to see good ideas butch­
local grants) offers incentives for ground-source the energy advisor at the time of the post-retrofit building inspector. Even in the case of those ered by sloppy installations. As the old adage
heat pumps. In order to qualify for grants, the evaluation in order to be eligible for a grant. houses where there is outside professional goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. We
system must meet the CAN/CSA-C448 Design As of April 1,2008, all eligible systems involvement, it is surprising to see how often thought it worthwhile to show a few examples of
and Installation of Earth Energy Systems stan­ must be certified by the Canadian GeoExchange questionable details and practices are used. seemingly obvious screw-ups that get built.
dard. Coalition and therefore must be drilled, designed It is also sad to note how muzzled building By far the biggest problems are ventilation
Until April 1st, 2008, the system installer must and installed by professional(s) accredited by inspectors are when it comes to commenting on systems. Duct layouts should be designed to al­
complete a “CSA 448 Design and Installation this coalition, and the “GeoExchange™ System building practices and details that are outside a low for the required airflows. None of these sys­
Compliance & Commissioning Report” (avail­ Certification Form” available from the Coalition very narrow range of code compliance issues. It tems are in R-2000 houses, which receive more
able from the Canadian GeoExchange Coali­ will have to be used. is either a case where the building official him­ scrutiny and inspection of the ventilation system
tion), forward it to the Canadian GeoExchange self is uncomfortable with commenting, or has (although these types of situations do occur from
been expressly muzzled by the legal department time to time even in R-2000 homes).
in the name of liability avoidance.
Masonry Fireplaces It is sad how often I hear builders and home-
owners say they want to ask for additional feed­
Masonry fireplaces on an outside back from their building official but are rebuffed
wall are, simply put, trouble. It’s not the at every turn. Granted, the inspector’s job is not
trouble associated with the maintenance to provide advice, but there is plenty of scope
of the fireplace - their operation can to add comments beyond a very narrow code
actually be unsafe. In winter, if the fire­ compliance review.
place is located below the neutral pres­ In my travels, I have the opportunity to see
sure plane of the building and installed
on the outside of the building envelope,
it will go into flow reversal during
Fig 2. This home has a large uninsulated concrete
structure on the exterior wall that includes a wood-burning
fireplace.
standby conditions when the temperature of the air in the
Fig. 5. A common problem with HR V
chimney falls below that of the heated space - and this can
installations, especially on the west coast, is that
happen even as the fire is smoldering as it dies down so the
they are placed in the attic. Placing an HRV in
toxic fumes are draw into the house. The result is inherent
the attic effectively places it outside the heated
instability of the venting system that can introduce contami­ Fig. 4. Looking at the tangle of ducts at this heat recovery
envelope with the associated problems of heat
nated air and products of combustion to the living space. ventilator one wonders if there will be any air delivered
loss and condensate drain freeze up. Although
There is also the matter of heat loss through the uninsulated where it is wanted, nor any collectedfrom the desired exhaust
in this installation the ducting in the attic is
masonry on an exterior wall. Yet it is surprising that we still points. The airflows in a typical HR V system are small -for
fully sealed and insulated, the servicing will be
see such designs. They are seen on some very expensive the average house, depending on the number of rooms, it may
Fig 3. This fireplace (in a new home) shows another major impossible. Not only is the access going to be a
custom homes. be only be 60-100 cfm continuous at low speed and double
concern about masonry fireplaces on the exterior. Because The way to deal with wood burning appliances is to that at high speed. Each splice, joint and elbow in the ducts problem - since the attic access is not even close
of requirements to maintain a clearance between combustible keep the chimney flue inside the airtight, heated envelope represents resistance and air leakage unless the duct is sealed, to this unit - as can be seen, the hinged door
materials and the fireplace, the gap between the framing and cannot be opened to service the filters and core
of the house. The chimney should not penetrate a wall of a which was not done in this case. Also, two ducts to the HRV
fireplace seldom gets properly detailed and air-sealed. As we because the roof truss is immediately in front of
building. Rather it should be installed or built so that it is must be fully insulated and sealed, from the outside to the
try to improve the energy efficiency of houses, these holes must the door. And just to make sure that access is
enclosed within the heated space up to the point at which it HR V, as they are on the cold side of the unit.
be addressed. more difficult, the strap holding up the unit is
exits through the building envelope through the ceiling.
wedged against the door.
10 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 11
Technical Research Committee News
tn
Radon Guidelines
another, even if they are similar and next door to
Radon and radon remediation has become each other. The only way to find out if a house
a top of mind issue recently because of Health has a radon problem is to measure the radon
Canada’s change to the radon guideline action concentration inside it.
limit to 200 Bq/m3 within occupied areas. This Remedial measures should be undertaken in
new guideline matches the action limits in most a dwelling whenever the average annual radon
Canadian
industrialized nations. concentration exceeds 200 Bq/m3 in the normal
Radon is a radioactive gas that is colourless, occupancy area. The normal occupancy area Home Builders'
odourless and tasteless. It is formed by the natu­ refers to any part of the dwelling where a person is Association
ral breakdown of uranium in soils and rocks. It likely to spend more than four hours per day. This
breaks down further to form additional radioac­ would include any finished basement room or a
tive particles called radon daughters. When radon basement apartment. It would exclude an unfin­
enters an enclosed space, such as a home, it can ished basement, a crawl space, or any area that The Technical Research
accumulate to high levels. is normally closed off and accessed infrequently, Committee (TRC) is the
The concern with radon is that, on average e.g., a storage area, cold room or laundiy room. industry’s forum for the
Fig. 6. A reasonably well-installed HR V system except that exchange of information
they forgot to insulate the ducts on the cold side of the HRV 10% of lung cancers are attributable to radon The challenge for new homebuilders is that on research and devel­
exposure - an estimated 1,900 lung-cancer radon concentrations cannot be identified until opment in the housing
Then again, it looks like they forgot to review the plans when
deaths per year in Canada. The risk for smokers after the house is completed, and then the meas­ sector.
designing the system layout at the cost of extra sheet metal is much higher than for non-smokers. urements can only be done over a period of time, Canadian Home Build­
ducts and loss of airflow. Fig. 7. If we can dream it up, why don we do it? ers’ Association, Suite
The typical HR V installation does not h’/ ave an Radon is heavier than air and so tends to accu­ and generally during winter months. Thus new 500, 150 Laurier Ave.
mulate in the lowest parts of a building, such as a house construction should employ techniques West, Ottawa, Ont. KIP
effective targeting of exhaust flows. When one
basement or crawl space. Radon concentrations that will minimize radon entry and will facilitate 5J4
bathroom calls for extra exhaust, the increased post-construction radon removal, should this Tel: [phone]
fluctuate seasonally, but are usually higher in
ventilation is shared with all other exhaust ports. Fax: [phone]
subsequently prove necessary.
This is one builder s attempt to provide zoning winter than in summer, and are usually higher at e-mail: [email protected]
night than during the day. This is because build­ Construction to minimize radon concentra­ www.chba.ca
for their exhausts. It works, but it will require a
tions in the house will also reduce moisture and
ings are more airtight, and doors and windows
mechanic to figure it out when servicing is going
are closed at night, so that there is less outdoor soil gas entry into the house.
to be needed.
air drawn into the house, allowing radon to build
Only one manufacturer we are aware of has a
up. A home with continuous ventilation, such as Health Canada guidelines suggest that the aim should be reduce the
designed, off-the-shelf system with zone controls
with a properly installed heat recovery ventilator, radon concentration to less than 200 Bq/m3. If the radon concentration is
to bias airflows from specific locations.
should have lower radon levels. found to be more than 600 Bq/m3, the remedial actions should be com­
The air pressure inside a house is usually pleted in less than one year; if between 200 Bq/m3 and 600 Bq/m3, the
lower than in the soil surrounding the founda­ remedial actions should be done in less than two years.
tion, so that radon and other soil gases can enter If a radon test is above the guideline action limit of 200 Bq/m3, the fol­
into the house. Radon can enter a home through lowing steps can reduce occupant risk:
any cracks in foundation walls and floor slabs,
1. Increase the ventilation in the basement to allow an exchange of air.
Fig 8. So who needs working drawings and construction joints, gaps around service pipes
phonebook-sizedspecifications? Then again, Solplan Review Back issues and support posts, floor drains and sumps, cavi­ 2. Seal all cracks and openings in foundation walls and floors, and
around pipes and drains.
what happens when litigation is launched? How ties inside walls, and water supply pipes that are
A limited number of back issues are avail­ 3. Paint basement floors and foundation walls with two coats of paint
did city hall deal with approvals on this project, in contact with the soil.
able, at a special price of $5.75 each (plus 6% and a sealant.
even if it only is tenant improvements? Radon concentrations differ greatly through­
GST).
I’ve never seen site details so thoroughly worked Bundle special: a random selection of back out Canada but are usually higher in areas where 4. Ventilate the basement sub-flooring by installing a small pump to
out on-site, which implies the tradition of the issues (minimum 22 copies) are available for there is a high concentration of uranium in draw the radon from below the concrete slab to the outside before it
craftsman design builder and working out details only $65.00 (plus 6% GST) underlying rock and soil. There are proposals can enter your home.
on-site is still alive and well at least in Japan. Solplan Review to develop maps showing areas with high radon 5. Renovate existing basement floors, particularly earth floors.
-
Box 86627 More information about radon is available from the Health Canada
This was spotted on a job site for a small retail potential. Local health departments may have
North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2 website, at: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/andfollow the links to Environmen­
shop in central Tokyo, across the street from a preliminary information on this. However, radon
e-mail: [email protected] tal & Workplace Health, and then radiation.
major five-star hotel. concentration levels will vary from one house to
12 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 13
There is no way to be able to anticipate poten­ 6. Install a PVC pipe into the porous layer reactive, being slow to change and then only The issue is not so much one of being relevant
tial radon concentrations in a new home. How­ under the house, and cap it in the basement, to after a long process of research and investiga­ or not - there is a place for the municipal inspec­
ever, it is appropriate to prepare for future radon allow for future installation of additional pipe tion. Ongoing research and field experience may tion service. Eveiyone benefits from another pair
remediation in new construction: and fan to actively depressurize the soil under the alter the basis on which the code is developed, of eyes. Rather, it is whether or not the applica­
1. Ensure there is a porous layer under the house, thus minimizing radon penetration into and point the direction for improvement. Noth­ tion of that service is done with the application
house (drain rock, no fines gravel, etc.). the house. ing is ever static. So dealing with a changing of common sense and building science principles,
2. Seal under-slab poly membrane. Some builders are choosing to install a PVC understanding does require the use of discretion or just a slavish adherence to a document in the
3. Seal foundation floor to foundation walls. pipe to connect the area under the slab through and common sense. To insist on compliance with hope of minimizing risk only to the authority.
4. Ensure service penetrations through founda­ to the attic, and capping it there, avoiding future third party certifications as the only justification What is often forgotten is that building codes,
tion walls and floors are caulked and sealed. costly expenses should a fan installation need to for acceptance of a new product, rather than which are minimum standards, are always reac­
5. Use floor drains with back-flow prevention be made. reviewing the justification on its technical merits, tive. Building science knowledge and under­
dampers. is not doing anyone any favour, nor is it protect­ standing is always evolving, so codes tend to play
ing the building owner nor the municipality from catch-up. That is why building officials need to
risk. use some discretion with code application, and
Re: Editorial, Solplan Review 137
Common sense tells us that a biodegradable when dealing with proposed details that seem
(November 2007)
material (wood) is subject to decay. Insisting to be a bit different. Engaging in meaningful
I enjoyed your editorial. Do you think the I feel like I’m speaking in tongues when I try only on the use of wood to create a rain screen dialogue with other building professionals is part
municipalities are starting to get gun shy about to explain this to most people. I would say this cavity, rather than permitting alternatives that of that.
anything new on the market? Have these rain lack of understanding of basic spatial separation may be more water resistant is one example of As to code articles, we ’ll have to consider
screen products you are talking about been in use principles is even more acute outside of metro­ short-sighted thinking. some items for the future. Ed.
long term (+5 years) in other jurisdictions? We politan Vancouver. It probably doesn’t help that
Letter to (municipal departments) must be starting to look different municipalities have different interpreta­
like dinosaurs or the last bastion of sensibility in tions, comfort and skills levels on this issue. I Unvented Vaulted Ceiling
the Editor
this feeding frenzy of “green” and new age ideas. think the biggest problems occur when residen­
Your article jogged my memory about a tial designers move into multifamily and light Performance Test Results
book I read last year called the “Tipping Point” commercial projects. Maybe it would be good to
by Malcolm Gladwell. It lays out how trends have more information in future articles about
Attic spaces are ventilated to remove mois­ which is why it is now standard practice in the
start and why they end and the major players sprinkler alternatives or is that an alternative we
ture that is introduced by warm, moist indoor air north not to ventilate attic spaces.
involved. I think it may be a reason why manu­ should avoid?
that leaks into the roof assembly and to control Good arguments can be made for the use of
facturers have a problem bringing new ideas Keep up the good work.
ice dams in cold climates by minimizing roof unvented cathedral attic assemblies. Unvented
on-line. I wonder who could be considered the
temperatures. The practice of ventilating roof roof assemblies, created by eliminating ventila­
laggards in this scenario - inspectors or builders Ken Kunka AScT, RBO
assemblies has been convention since the 1940s tion and moving the thermal insulation and air
as a whole? Okanagan Valley
although little research went into the criteria. barrier from the ceiling plane to the rafters im­
I really think we as an inspection body (and
Experience and research over the past 10 to 20 mediately below the roof deck, are increasingly
the Building Officials Association of BC appears Thanks for your comments. It is not just a mat­
years have caused many to question and abandon common in low-rise residential construction.
to be thinking about this) have to be careful to ter of how long a given material has been in use,
ventilated roof assemblies in favor of unvented Recent changes to the US International Resi­
not be so indecisive and not keep up with indus­ or what certification it has. It also requires the
cathedralized attics. dential Code allow the construction of unvented
try to the point that we are no longer relevant. I use of discretion and applying building science
In hot climates, unvented cathedral roof roof assemblies. At this time, the National
think there is a saying on getting better - “if you and engineering principles when considering
assemblies prevent the warm, humid air from Building Code of Canada has not made the same
are not continually getting better, then you are alternative details. Interpretations cannot and condensing on cool, inside drywall surfaces or change, although there is a provision that allows
falling further behind.” should not be done lightly, but at the same time, on the cold surfaces of air conditioning ductwork unvented roof details provided it can be shown
I would also like to compliment you on your when reasoned arguments are made, documenta­
in the attic. In cold climates, ventilation of roof that an airtight assembly is achieved. Local
write-up on spatial separations. It is one of the tion provided (more than somebody’s anecdotes), assemblies can result in higher moisture levels building officials have permitted the construction
first code/design articles geared to a mass audi­ and in the final analysis, professionals agree to and unvented assemblies may mitigate this prob­ of unvented assemblies in some jurisdictions.
ence. I really have to believe that this is never take responsibility, then there should be some lem. In cool coastal areas, unvented assemblies The most common way this is achieved is by the
taught in design school. I would guess that 90% movement.
are less likely to suffer from moisture problems use of spray-in-place foam insulation.
of residential builders, 80% of home design­ Although code development is subject to related to wind-driven rain, which can enter Moisture performance of roof assemblies
ers and 50% of architects do not have a good extensive discussion and review, it is important through vents and wet-sensitive materials in the has been the focus of few North American field
understanding on how unprotected openings to recognize that at the end of the day, there are roof assembly. In extreme cold arctic climates, measurement studies. To determine whether
and exposing building faces relate to limiting limitations in the code. Generally, codes are fine blowing snow can enter though attic vents,
distances.
14 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 15
Asked Us About:
YOU Environmentally
Preferable Furnace And Water Heaters
or not an unvented ceiling assembly that meets The test cuts confirmed that there was good We are planning a new home and would levels, including full basement insulation, airtight
the new IRC code requirements can perform continuity of the sprayed foam insulation and like it to be energy efficient and environ­ construction, and high performance windows. A
satisfactorily in the wet climates of Vancouver, a tight bond between it and the roof sheathing mentally appropriate. What we would like well built, well-insulated house will have a very
BC, a house using this detail was instrumented indicating that air leakage had no effect on the small heat load, meaning the furnace doesn’t
to know is whether a high efficiency natural
and monitored continuously for two years. The hygrothermal performance of the roof assembly. have to contribute much, and you can use a very
gas furnace and water heater is better and
ceiling assembly was built without a membrane Drying would have been accelerated by ven­ small heating system.
more cost effective than an electric one?
vapour barrier and using an air impermeable, low tilating the house with drier winter outdoor air. For domestic hot water, tankless gas fired
density, open cell sprayed polyurethane foam However, the homeowners did not operate the units are very efficient. The conventional gas-
There is little difference between electric and
insulation. The house is heated with radiant floor heat recovery ventilation (HRV) system and did fired tanks are very inefficient.
gas as fuels - which is more environmentally
heating and year-round ventilation is provided by not switch it to “winter” mode until December. It is also important to ensure that the heating
preferable will depend on the location of the
an HRV. The HRV ran at a higher ventilation rate for all system is correctly sized for the heat load of the
house and fuel options available in the region.
The roof assembly was asphalt shingles on of the second winter, so that indoor temperatures house. Over sizing will mean lower overall ef­
All high efficiency equipment will provide
Vi in. plywood sheathing on 2 x 4 strapping on were slightly cooler and RH levels were notice­ ficiency.
equivalent performance - the difference may be
2x10 inch rafters spaced 16 inches on centre ably lower during the second winter. This is where a certified energy evaluator can
more in cost based on differences in basic energy
filled with 10 Vi inches of Icynene, a low-den­ In the third winter (the second fully occu­ help to review the energy performance of the
cost between the two fuels. Generally, on a per
sity, open-cell sprayed polyurethane foam and pied winter), indoor moisture levels were lower house, and help to fine-tune the design specifica­
unit or energy basis, electricity tends to be more
Vi inch dry wall painted with a low permeance and the increase in moisture content was not tions to minimize purchased energy consumption.
expensive than gas, but it will vary.
drywall primer. A polyethylene vapour barrier as significant. The MC of the sheathing at the Gas fireplaces should be direct vent, sealed
In some regions the electrical utilities are dis­
was not used. north-facing locations increased by 5-7% to the combustion units with electronic ignition. Every
couraging the use of electricity for space heating
Data was collected over the course of the first mid to high teens while the sheathing MC on the standing pilot light represents a significant
two fully occupied winters. The second summer, south-facing roof only increased by 1.5 - 3%. because of power supply issues. Electricity is cost both in terms of operating costs as well as
best used for applications that have no alterna­
inspection openings were made to take moisture The combination of the painted drywall and contributing to overheating when heat is not re­
content readings with hand-held meters and col­ the air-impermeable, low-density, open-cell tives, such as to light lights, run refrigerators, quired. These units can also supply a significant
lect some painted drywall samples for permeance sprayed polyurethane foam eliminates air move­ motors and computers. In other regions (such amount of heat when needed. In some areas, gas
testing. ment and the moisture in the exfiltrating air and as BC at this time) the difference in energy cost fireplaces are designed to be part of the heating
The first year, the north-facing roof had high reduces the outward diffusion of water vapour between various fuels is very slight, but the use system.
initial moisture content (MC) readings (in the during cold weather. The vapour permeance of of electricity for space heating is still a concern There is no fuel preference in programs such
range of 20-25%) for a short while, the result of the interior layers of the assembly is sufficiently to the utilities. as Built-Green™, Energy Star, R-2000 or LEED.
high indoor moisture levels associated with the high to allow any moisture in the sheathing to If electricity is considered for space heating, But there is an energy performance requirement
then you should consider a heat pump system
finishing work, such as drywall mud, painting dry inward during warm weather or in the event that the house meet a minimum energy perform­
and cleaning, etc. of incidental wetting. (air-air can be used, especially in milder cli­ ance. This recognizes the importance of proper
mates). A high efficiency heat pump can pro­
The second winter (the first fully occupied The vapour permeance of the finished drywall building design, reducing heat load and will re­
winter), the sheathing MC at the north-facing lo­ samples was determined to be about 450 ng/Pa s vide, on average, 2-2.5 kWh for every kWh it quire the use of high efficiency heating systems,
cations increased to the high teens and low twen­ m for samples finished with two coats latex paint, consumes (you might think of it as 200-250% and water heaters. Generally, the more efficient
ties while the south-facing roof only increased to which was significantly higher than expected. ‘efficient’). However, as the temperature dips the mechanical system is, the higher the energy
below freezing, the efficiency disappears. De­
the low teens. The south-facing roof appears to Numerous vapour retarder primer paints are rating will be for the house as the efficiency
dry quickly by mid-February while the north­ available that have a demonstrated permeance in pending on manufacturer and model, the limit of heating equipment and hot water heaters is
facing roof appears to increase in MC until the the range of 35 to 57 ng/Pa s m, 10 to 30 times is around -5°C at which time a supplementary considered. In addition, the mix of fuels in each
end of February and then dry during mid-March lower than measured and within the code defined heater needs to be used. In milder climates, the region will vary.
number of hours that are below the threshold
through mid-May. criteria for vapour barrier. Use of these primers However, in places with heavy reliance on
where supplementary heating kicks may be quite
Some concern was raised over the elevated will significantly reduce the diffusion during the thermal generation of electricity, such as Alberta
small, so that it will not be used much. That will
MC levels measured on the north-facing roof. winter so that the moisture content of the north­ and Saskatchewan, which rely on coal burning
not be the case in colder climates.
Test cuts were made through the drywall and facing roof sheathing does not exceed 20%. plants for most of their electricity, electrical heat­
The most important and cost effective point
the foam insulation in the roof during the sec­ ing definitely does not make sense. O
to consider when looking at heating equipment
ond fully occupied summer. None of the sam­ Field Performance of an Unvented Cathedral Ceiling
is to make sure that the house is built as energy
ples showed any signs of mould or decay - the (UCC) in Vancouver
efficient as possible to reduce the building’s
interior surface of the roof sheathing plywood By C.J. Schumacher cmd E. Reeves, PEng.
energy needs for space heating in the first place.
was clean and the material resisted penetration Paper presented at Buildings X Conference, Florida
You want to make sure you use higher insulation
of a pocketknife just as new plywood sheathing
would.
16 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 17
Energy Answers
If you could have only one instrument
Here are some temperatures that can be the temperature rise of the outside air would be
to help tune up a house s energy use, what outdoors will give an inaccurate reading of the
checked using a thermocouple: 11.4 -(-10) = 23.4°C. The temperature fall on the
would it be? air temperature. A radiation shield such as a toilet
Refrigerator temperature. The desirable exhaust air side of the heat exchanger should also
paper cardboard wrapped with aluminum foil
A thermocouple temperature sensor would be temperature should be about 4°C. A higher tem­ be about 23.4°C if the air flows on each side of
will work well. A thermocouple inside an oven
my choice. perature will increase food spoilage, and a lower the heat exchanger are equal. (This assumes that
will give an inaccurate reading of temperature if
Most of the energy consumption in houses is temperature will increase energy use. condensation effects can be neglected.) Thus the
the thermocouple is placed near the hot element.
used to maintain a temperature difference. For Freezer temperature. The desirable tempera­ exhaust air temperature after it has been cooled
Temperature is probably the most important
instance, house temperature in winter is usually ture should be about -18°C. As with a refrig­ should be about 22 -23.4 = -1,4°C.
parameter in a dwelling. It pays to have a good
held around 22°C, the hot water around 55°C, the erator, a higher temperature will increase food If the temperature rise and temperature fall
temperature sensor. 0
refrigerator at about 4°C, the freezer at -18°C, spoilage, and a lower temperature will increase values are quite different, the most likely reason
etc. If these values are not right, you may be energy use. is that the flows on each side of the exchanger
Rob Dumont wasting a considerable amount of energy. Room thermostat. Use the thermocouple are unequal. Adjust the flows to bring the HRV
For measuring temperature, my favourite readout to check that your thermostat is reading into balance.
device is a thermocouple-based digital readout. properly. Skin temperature. Your skin temperature is
The thermocouple has the advantage that it is Water heater temperature. The water usually about 30°C. If it is less than or equal to
quite rugged, can measure temperatures over a temperature should be about 55°C coming out of room temperature, you are likely dead, and you
wide range, is not very sensitive to liquid water, the unit. Higher temperatures will waste energy need read no further. r
and is relatively inexpensive. Thermocouples and can cause scalding, and lower temperatures \
Thermocouples can be fooled if not used
operate on the Seebeck effect. A junction of two increase the risk of legionella and other bacteria energy efficient, sustainable, and healthy buildings
properly. Here are some common errors with us­ design & consulting services
dissimilar metals will generate a voltage if the growing in the unit.
ing thermocouples: R-2000 File Management
junction is at a different temperature than the Oven temperatures. The thermocouple can 1. The junction of the thermocouple must HOT-2000 Analysis
readout device. The readout device converts this be used to cross-check the temperature settings SuperE™ House Program Design Professional
be in thermal equilbrium with the temperature
voltage signal into a temperature. A schematic of on the oven dial and prevent uncooked or burnt
of the object being measured. Make sure that Richard Kadulski Architect
the thermocouple and readout is shown in Figure food.
the thermocouple wire is in contact for at least
1. The voltage output from most thermocouples Furnace exhaust temperatures. A high ef­
an inch (25 mm) with the surface being meas­ #204 - 1037 West Broadway
is quite small—about 40 microvolts per degree C ficiency condensing natural gas furnace will have
ured. For instance, if you place only the tip of Vancouver, B.C. V6H 1E3
— thus a sensitive readout is needed. an exhaust gas temperature of about 50°C or
a thermocouple on your skin, the temperature Tel: [phone]
lower. A low efficiency conventional natural draft
will read about 25°C which is clearly too low. If, Fax: [phone]
gas furnace should have an exhaust gas tempera­
however, you tape the thermocouple tip and an
e-mail: [email protected]
| 4 3 1 2) ture of about 175°C as the exhaust gas leaves the inch of wire near the tip to your skin, you will V
.TCRM0 to\J?U \M\RBS heat exchanger. (We have, however, measured get a temperature of about 30°C which is much
a some exhaust gas temperatures as high as 400°C more accurate.
in cases where the warm air flow through the fur­ 2. Ensure that the insulation on the two wires
\ K.W. DOORS & WINDOWS
nace was seriously impeded by bad ductwork or is intact. If the wires are shorted at a place other
JUNCTION a dirty air filter.) A high exhaust gas temperature than the tip, the thermocouple will give an inac­
is a ready indicator of low efficiency. curate reading. ♦ Eclipse Folding Door Systems
smwr
Air-to-Air Heat Exchanger (Heat Recovery 3. Periodically check the calibration of the ♦ Douglas Fir Doors Windows
Ventilator). Use the thermocouples to check out thermocouple. An accurate check can be made
♦ European Hardware Specialists
Figure 1. Thermcouple wires and a temperature the temperatures at the inlets and outlets of the by placing the thermocouple junction and about
readout HRV. For example, if the outdoor air tempera­ an inch of the wire into an ice bath. The ice bath
Phone/fax: [phone]
ture is -10°C and the indoor air temperature is should consist of a mixture of water and crushed
For about $ 150 you can get a dual input ther­ +22°C, the temperature of the outside air should ice. The thermocouple should read very close to 1-800-477-1577
mocouple readout with decent accuracy. Omega, be about +13.4°C after it has passed through 0°C. Visit us at www.kwdoorsandwindows.com
ca has an Omegaette HH300 model that uses the HRV (this assumes that the sensible heat 4. Watch out for radiation sources, as they can
type K thermocouples, and I have been satisfied recovery effectiveness is about 70%). In addi­ give a false reading of temperature. For instance,
S2 WINDOW
with their performance over the years. Some tion, the temperature drop on the exhaust air side a thermocouple that is exposed to direct sun
AND DOOR
other suppliers include Fluke, Extech, and Cole- of the heat exchanger should be roughly equal
MANUFACTURERS
Parmer. to the temperature rise on the outside air side Aor SmSOmCiI ACoTluIOmbNia
of the heat exchanger. For the above example
18 SQLPLAN REVIEW January 2008
SOLPLAN REVIEW January 2008 19
tRCCtRC
Gypsum Board Performance in Fire
Rated Floor Assemblies
By M.A. Sultan Gypsum board is a versatile material that finds resistance rating, installers use the specified
board stayed in place the better the fire resist­ ing finding was the detrimental effect that insula­
widespread use in frame construction. In addi­ fastener length and spacing and joints are sealed
ance. tion in floor cavities has on gypsum board fall-off
tion to its role of providing a finished surface for (tape and joint compound) to resist the spread of
♦A second layer of gypsum board increased time; this will be the topic of further research.
walls and ceilings, when installed and fastened flame between panels as long as possible.
the fall-off time for the gypsum board layer
according to code and standards-prescribed For further information about completed
Research exposed to the fire (face layer) compared to
specifications, gypsum board plays the crucial and planned research regarding the influence
The NRC-IRC research assessed the gypsum an assembly with only one layer of gypsum
role of imparting frame construction with fire of gypsum board on the performance of framed
board fall-off time for 80 full-scale fire resistance board, even though the base layer fell off
resistance abilities. assemblies, contact Dr. Mohamed Sultan at tel.
floor test assemblies using lightweight framed relatively quickly compared to the face layer
The National Research Council’s Institute for 613-993-9771 or e-mail: Mohamed.sultan(a).nrc-
wood joists, wood-I joists and steel joists, and due to a thermal shock caused by board expo­
Research in Construction (NRC-IRC) completed wood trusses, protected with either one or two sure to heat once the face layer had dropped cnrc.2c.ca. The full research report is available at
a comprehensive research initiative that tested http://ire, nre-enre. gc. ca/pubs/fidltext/nrcc45420/.
layers of Type X gypsum board. The gypsum off.
many building assemblies, most with fire rated
board used had the Firecode C Core Type X ♦The type of framing had no significant effect
Type X gypsum board, to establish the fire resist­
designation and met the requirements of Type X on gypsum board fall-off time.
ance ratings and related sound transmission class
gypsum board. ♦The installation of resilient channels did not
(STC) ratings. The results of the research gener­
The research investigated several variables affect significantly the fall-off time for gyp­ “The Stone Age didn’t end because we
ated much of the information in Part 9 Appendix
that could potentially affect fall-off time includ­ sum board compared to an assembly without ran out of stone, and the oil age won’t end
A, Table A-9.. 10.3.1. B. of the 2005 National
ing: resilient channels. However, changing the because we run out of oil.”
Building Code (NBC) of Canada. The research
spacing of the resilient channels from 406 to
confirmed the importance of gypsum board for ♦Effect of resilient channel installation and And who first said this?None other than Sheik
610 mm had a negative effect on the fall-off
the fire resistance of framed assemblies and spacing Yamani, the Saudi Arabian oil minister who helped
time, while changing the spacing from 406 to
revealed some interesting information about the ♦Effect of insulation in the cavity between convince OPEC to quadruple the price of oil back
203 mm had no significant effect.
performance of gypsum board in fire situations. joists in ‘73.
♦Fall-off time was affected by the distance the
♦Effect of one versus two layers of gypsum
Some Facts about Gypsum Board fasteners are situated from the panel edges.
board
Gypsum board is manufactured in panels Increasing the screw distance from the edge
♦Effect of framing type (solid wood joists,
consisting of a non-combustible core bounded by of the panels from 10 to 38 mm
wood I-joists and steel C joists) and spacing
paper surfaces. Several types of core and facing increased the fall-off time consider­
combinations are available that impart special ably. This can be achieved by using
A floor assembly was considered to have
characteristics such as enhanced fire performance Type G screws to attach the face
failed when one of the following failure criteria
(Type X) or enhanced performance in high-hu­ layer to the base layer in a two-layer
as per the CAN/ULC SI01-04 Standard occurred
midity applications, to give two examples. gypsum board floor system, or by
first:
For fire performance, the gypsum core is using Type S screws to attach a
usually composed of at least 75% pure gypsum ♦A single point temperature reading measured board in a single-layer floor system
and up to 25% additives such as glass fibre and by one of nine thermocouples under insula­ to two side-by-side resilient chan­ With an HRV,
vermiculite as well as other materials to reduce tion on the unexposed surface rose 180°C nels as illustrated at the end of the TheFYNER™
the likelihood of cracking and shrinkage when above the ambient temperature; NBC Part 9, Appendix A, Table Filter needs no
A-9.10.3.1.B. boost fan and
panels are exposed to heat. The gypsum core is ♦The average temperature measured by nine
♦The presence of insulation in the uses little
chemically combined with about 21% of water thermocouples installed under insulated pads
floor cavity had a negative effect on additional
by weight. In addition, gypsum usually contains on the unexposed surface rose 140°C above
a small amount of absorbed free water. As the the ambient temperature; the fall-off time of gypsum board energy.
for assemblies with both one and
gypsum is heated to a temperature in excess of ♦There was passage of flame or gases hot
Mounting Options: The FYNER™ Filter cabinet holds one
80°C, it begins to undergo a thermal degradation enough to ignite cotton waste; two layers of gypsum board.
• vertical, 76"x 20"x 4" Particle Filter, and one
that eventually affects the ability of panels to re­ ♦The assembly was no longer able to bear the This research significantly advanced • horizontal, or optional I6"x20"x 7" filter:
main in place to deter the spread of smoke, flame applied load.
the understanding of how gypsum ° reverse flow • a Pleated Pre-Filter, or
Dr. Mohamad Sultan and heat to adjoining rooms.
Findings board affects the fire resistance of floor Collar Options: •a 7.5 lb. Odour Control Filter, or
is a Senior Researcher In fire situations, the ability of the gypsum assemblies and how frame assemblies • 6"0, 8"0 or 12"0 • a 5.5 lb. Odour Control Filter
and Leader of the Fire board to remain in place depends on the charac­ The research produced the following findings:
behave in fire situations. One perplex­
Resistance and Risk ♦Gypsum board fall-off time had a significant ENEREAPY PRODUCTS LTD. R——
teristics of the board, the quality of the fastening
Management Group at and other factors. This highlights the importance effect on the fire resistance of lightweight #4 - 6420 Beresford Street • Burnaby • British Columbia CANADA • V5E 1 B6
NRC-1RC. frame assemblies - the longer the gypsum Telephone: [phone] • Fax:[phone] • www.enereadyproducts.com
of ensuring that, for constructing a given fire-
1*1 National Research Conseil national
Council Canada de recherches Canada