Exterior wall assemblies are composed of various materials (such as insulation); some help improve thermal performance. Other structural components (like girts, studs, and blocking) have the opposite effect.
Thermal performancethe degree of energy transfer between a building and its surroundingsis an important consideration for every construction or renovation project. Not surprisingly, exterior wall assemblies play a major role in achieving the desired performance.
Good: This system is a robust wall the fiberglass support system on the exterior transmits very little heat. Thermal performance for the system is up to R-23.8. The design of the wall places all moisture control outside the air barrier.
When there is exterior insulation on the assembly, thermal bridging can also occur depending on the method of attaching the insulation and cladding to the substrate. Methodologies for calculating the thermal performance of building envelope wall assemblies that includes thermal...
An assessment of the thermal performance of alternative wall assemblies (rammed earth, straw bale, hempcrete and light straw clay) vs conventional choices.
The impact of these components on the thermal performance of exterior walls is significant. Numerous strategies and wall cladding assemblies can reduce thermal bridging through an exterior insulation layer.
Many jurisdictions in the US are looking closely at the re performance requirements of exterior wall covering assemblies. The model codes, and most jurisdictions contain restrictive guidelines for re performance that, when properly followed, have impressive safety records.
Exterior-Insulated Steel Wall Assemblies with Alternate Cladding Support Strategies (Fiberglass Clips to left and horizontal girts to right). Balcony thermal break within exterior insulated wall assembly.
