![]() Lastly, there are building management technologies on the market that focus on monitoring building envelope. Proper air sealing can also help to prevent drafts and minimize energy loss. Upgrading to high-performance windows and doors can also reduce heat transfer, while reflective roofing can minimize the amount of heat absorbed by a building. In addition to insulation, other aspects of the building envelope that can contribute to decarbonizing retrofits include windows and doors, roofing, and air sealing. When a building is properly insulated and sealed, it can significantly reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions. It serves as a barrier between the interior and exterior of the building, protecting the occupants from the elements and providing thermal insulation. The building envelope itself is made up of the walls, roof, windows, doors, and other exterior components of a building. Generally, you remove the existing siding first, but that depends on the existing construction method. A more common retrofit technique is a siding replacement project, foam board (polystyrene) is added to the outside surface of a building, followed by a layer of “house wrap” vapor barrier, then new siding. Its main advantage is that industrial applications are fast to apply in new build construction, so it’s generally cheaper. Spray foam for example, is not always the best product. Some common insulation materials include fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam, but not all insulation materials are created equal. When selecting insulation materials for a retrofit project, there are several factors to consider, including budget, effectiveness, and environmental impact. It can help keep the indoor temperature stable, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems. Insulation plays a major role in the energy efficiency of a building. The higher the R-value, or the more heat resistant the insulation material, the better the insulation will perform. When considering insulation options for decarbonizing retrofits, it’s important to consider the R-value, or thermal resistance, of the material. Uninsulated chilled water piping has the same problem but can also cause condensation and lead to property damage. Uninsulated hot water or steam pipes will lose heat constantly, leading to poor efficiency. Together, they help keep buildings cool in warmer months and warm in cooler months.Īdditionally, piping that carries hot water, steam, or chilled water to heating and cooling appliances needs to be insulated, and over time that insulation can break down and need replacement. A building envelope keeps conditioned air inside the building. Insulation has to do with preventing heat flow through building perimeters. Upgrading HVAC and other mechanical upgrades are certainly important, but if you have a drafty building, even the most efficient heating and cooling systems will not be effective. However, the building’s envelope and insulation are often the first place to start, as it can have a significant impact on a building’s energy use and GHG emissions. ![]() One strategy for significant savings is to upgrade your building envelope and insulation to prevent energy from escaping and being wasted.ĭecarbonizing retrofits typically involve multiple aspects of a building’s systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and water usage. There are many different technologies we can install to make your buildings more efficient and reduce your energy bill. RENEW Energy Partners specializes in funding energy saving retrofits for your commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings. ![]()
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