Masonry Magazine January 2011 Page. 31
Age
State building codes typically reference or adopt ASHRAE Standard 90.1-Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings. The new 2010 version of ASHRAE 90.1 has mandated a 30-percent reduction in building energy usage from its 2004 version. A new understanding is being developed, linking the use of an air barrier system with the proper amount and type of insulation in a wall assembly.
Some of the big changes coming on the horizon include increased "Total Wall R-Value" requirements for many of the eight different climate zones within the United States. In all cases, the air barrier system is going to be a required part of the new code and, in many cases, more insulation will be required to meet the new standards. Another major change will include the requirement for the use of continuous insulation outboard in a metal stud wall assembly. This is being required to minimize the harmful effects of thermal bridging from the metal studs that can carry both hot and cold through the building envelope. But new challenges are arising as wall cavities grow larger to accommodate insulation. The HB-200 HS is an example of the high-strength systems needed to reinforce and anchor the masonry veneer.
More than ever before, the air barrier system has become a critical part of an energy-efficient wall. Notice that the term "air barrier system" is used, because we have come to learn that not only must the air barrier material be included, but also all related components such as sealants, detail tapes, etc. must be included. All of these components must be compatible with each other, and any adjacent materials in the wall. Single sourcing or complete testing of all the wall components would be a way for designers to develop a level of comfort with all of the related materials. An air barrier system will not serve its intended purpose if careful consideration is given to tying the wall barrier into the roofing system, and also the below-grade waterproofing or even an under slab vapor barrier. We must begin to think of the entire building envelope and the potential for both liquid moisture and vapor diffusion through all four sides of the structure.
Some of the key elements of an effective air barrier system include longevity of the materials involved, plus the ability for the installer to successfully create airtight details. These detail points become the most important aspects of properly functioning wall. These details need to be determined by the architect in the design phase. Most product manufacturers can provide "basic" details but, in many cases, project-specific details must be determined by a team that may include the architect, a consultant and the product manufacturer.
Will the sealant adhere to the detail sheet at door and window openings? Does the window installation detail provide for a total
Left:
Metal Stud Wall with "Outsulation" to meet new ASHRAE 90.1
2010 requirement.
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January 2011
MASONRY 29