Thermal Mass, Energy Codes, and Precast Concrete
The thermal mass provided by concrete buildings saves energy in many climates.
This is most effective in conserving energy in the sun-belt regions in the Southern and Western United States because of the daily temperature fluctuations that occur throughout the year.
This presentation describes the benefits of thermal mass (thermal inertia) and how these benefits are recognized in national energy codes.
Mass walls in combination with insulation can save energy in buildings. An overview of the compliance paths of these energy codes is presented. The degradation of the R-value of concrete panels with metal thermal bridges that pass through the insulation is also described.
Credits: 1.0 PDH or AIA LU
Presenter: Emily Lorenz, PE
Emily is an independent consultant in the areas of LCA, EPDs, PCRs, green building, and sustainability. She serves as an engineer in the areas of green structures and practices, energy efficiency, thermal properties, and moisture mitigation. Emily also specializes in green building code and standards of work and advocacy.
