Abstract
This case study examines the effect of an enclosure retrofit on a high-rise, multi-unit residential building (MURB). Literature on fan pressurization test methodologies and MURB air leakage rates is reviewed. The enclosure for the case study building was tested using the guarded-zone fan pressurization method. Results of the air leakage testing show significant improvement in the enclosure tightness and compare well to measured data for other MURBs across North America. There is recognition of a need to standardize both testing methods and presentation of data for air leakage in MURBs. The issue of abnormal flow exponent values is discussed and recommendations for future research are made.
Highlights
A recent report produced by the University of British Columbia highlights the need for energy retrofits to current building stock in Vancouver in order to meet energy demand and greenhouse gas reduction targets by 2030 (ISIS Research Centre, 2011)
Air leakage has an effect on many aspects of a building, principally; energy efficiency, indoor air quality, HVAC efficiency and enclosure durability (CMHC, 2001)
This study will assess the effectiveness of an enclosure retrofit on air leakage for a thirteen-storey multi-unit residential building (MURB) in Vancouver, Canada
Summary
A recent report produced by the University of British Columbia highlights the need for energy retrofits to current building stock in Vancouver in order to meet energy demand and greenhouse gas reduction targets by 2030 (ISIS Research Centre, 2011). A large proportion of that building stock is mid and high-rise (5 to 33 story) multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) (CMHC, 2013). Many of these MURBs are currently undergoing or will be undergoing exterior retrofits due to a variety of issues. Most retrofits focus on energy saving measures such as improving insulation values and increasing air tightness of the building enclosure (Finch, 2007; CMHC, 2013). Studies tend to focus on the energy savings of retrofits, and to omit data on air leakage improvements. Air leakage has an effect on many aspects of a building, principally; energy efficiency, indoor air quality, HVAC efficiency and enclosure durability (CMHC, 2001). It is important to understand how air leakage rates are influenced by enclosure retrofits as this will directly affect other important health, safety and financial aspects of the built environment
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