Building Codes

Why Continuous Insulation is a Key Part of Net Zero Buildings

Of particular note to building envelope professionals, since 2007, ASHRAE 90.1 has required continuous insulation (CI) in most U.S. climate zones.

Peer Review: Advanced Energy Design Guide for Achieving Zero Energy

In partnership with AIA, IES, and USGBC and with support from the DOE, ASHRAE is developing a new series of Advanced Energy Design Guides focusing on achieving zero energy performance.   

How California’s New Energy Code Will Have National Impacts

California is going toward the new 2016 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, and it’s already having far-reaching implications.

LP Helps Framers Protect their Reputation with Durable Buildings

LP FlameBlock sheathing features an ignition-resistant Pyrotite® coating that slows the effects of heat and flames. It carries a Class A rating and a 30-minute flame spread rating, and is a code-compliant component in fire-rated interior wall assemblies, exterior wall assemblies, and roof deck applications.

Maps: How States Benefit from Energy Efficiency Standards

In total for products purchased through 2035, Americans will save $2.4 trillion because of energy efficiency standards set over the past three decades.

Passive House Built to Withstand Local Wildfires

The Journal of Light Construction recently published an article detailing how a house adhering to passive house performance standards was constructed in an area of California prone to wildfires. 

Deciphering Energy Efficiency Through the HERS Index

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index was developed by the Residential Energy Services Network, or RESNET, to gauge how energy-efficient a new home is.

SBCA Initiates New ANSI Consensus Standard

SBCA has initiated the process for the development of an ANSI consensus standard and announces a call to solicit new consensus body members who wish to participate in the project committee.

'Passive Systems' Key to Increasing Energy Performance

In order to make an impact on the energy consumption of buildings, we have now learned, again, that we have to stick with the fundamentals of building science and look to passive systems to meet the necessary changes.

TYPAR Highlights Advantages of Effective Air Barriers

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 40 percent of the energy used to heat and cool a building is due to uncontrolled air leakage.