A building retrofit is the process of making a buildings thermally efficient. This can save energy costs, reduce carbon emissions and improve the quality of the air. It can also help to overcome ventilation problems and dampness.
Smart building technology is becoming a standard feature of new construction. However, many existing buildings lack visibility into their real-time energy consumption.
Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs)
Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) are lightweight, composite exterior wall and roof panels. They consist of metal skins and an insulated foam core, allowing for superior energy efficiency and design flexibility. IMPs are also easy to install, saving builders both material and labor costs. In addition, their spanning capabilities allow for the use of fewer structural supports.
IMPs are highly durable and require minimal maintenance. They are available in a variety of colors, widths, and profiles to accommodate any aesthetic requirement. They are also environmentally friendly and can contribute to LEED credits.
In a building retrofit, IMP walls can help improve energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of a structure. They can be installed to replace steel or concrete walls. This is especially helpful for existing buildings with low insulation levels, which can be costly to operate and maintain.
However, there are several potential problems with IMPs, such as damage during construction and poor installation. These problems can lead to a loss of R-value and moisture infiltration. To prevent this, it is important to keep IMPs stored correctly and install them properly. Spray from adjacent wall coatings and finished systems like stucco can damage IMPs, and direct contact with dissimilar or corrosive materials can diminish the integrity of the metal. Moisture that works its way inside a panel can result in condensation and rust.
IMPs increase energy efficiency
IMPs increase energy efficiency by providing a thermal barrier between the exterior and interior of the building. This barrier minimizes thermal bridging and air infiltration, and it also prevents thermal drift. As a result, the insulation in IMPs can help businesses save on heating and cooling costs. In addition, the insulating material is resistant to moisture and humidity, which can cause traditional construction materials to deteriorate prematurely.
The continuous insulating foam in IMPs is bonded to metal panels, which are in turn sealed together in a weather-proof coating. This ensures that the insulation is protected from harsh conditions and elements, including wind-blown dust. This allows the building to be closed quickly and efficiently, allowing other trades to begin work in a more sheltered environment. In addition, IMPs are resistant to corrosion and can last for years without requiring repairs or maintenance.
Because IMPs replace rigid insulation, batt insulation and sheathing, they can reduce the amount of time required to install the building envelope. Moreover, the sheathing and weather barriers do not need to be installed by separate crews on additional days of work, saving money, weather exposure and crew time on site.
Additionally, IMPs can be used to achieve LEED credits for the Building Life Cycle Impact Reduction credit. This credit offers up to five points by encouraging adaptive reuse and reducing the embodied energy of materials.
IMPs are easy to install
IMPs are easy to install, reducing construction time and the need for multiple trades. They are also lightweight, which allows them to be moved easily and positioned on the jobsite. In addition, IMPs are durable and can withstand severe weather conditions and perform well in seismic zones. In addition, they are resistant to rot and fire, making them an excellent choice for resilient building requirements.
Using IMPs on retrofit projects can reduce construction costs. They provide a complete exterior envelope and are designed as a single-component system, which minimizes the risk of installation errors and reduces overall construction costs. In addition, they are fabricated in the factory, which minimizes delays and ensures that all requirements are met.
Additionally, IMPs help meet stringent energy codes and reduce energy consumption. Their high R-values are ideal for achieving the required performance levels without increasing wall thickness. These airtight panels offer maximum thermal resistance and can significantly decrease heating and cooling expenses.
To ensure the integrity of the insulation, installers should pay attention to all details, including trims, caulking, foam-to-foam connections, and seaming. The quality of these components is critical, as they can lead to vapor leaks and heat loss. Additionally, the cladding should be secured tightly to the metal framing and the insulation should be properly sealed to prevent moisture penetration.
IMPs are low maintenance
In addition to increasing the value and longevity of your building, retrofitting for energy efficiency reduces operating costs and environmental impact. A major renovation or retrofit is a good time to incorporate green and sustainability initiatives into your project, and it can also be an opportunity to install renewable energy sources. This type of retrofit can reduce operating costs, make the property more attractive to tenants, and improve indoor environmental quality (IAQ).
Whether you want to perform a shallow or deep energy retrofit, it is important to understand your current energy use. Your building assessment will help you determine what you can do to improve your energy efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint. It will also show you if you’re eligible for incentives on energy efficiency upgrades.
The cheapest, most climate-friendly kilowatt is the one that’s not used! But many existing buildings don’t give owners visibility into the amount of energy they use on a daily basis. This makes implementing a retrofit difficult.
A green retrofit can be a great way to lower utility bills and increase the building’s appeal for tenants. In addition, it can improve occupant health and comfort, as well as contribute to a healthier workplace. These improvements can be as simple as installing a new thermostat or a smart lighting system. It could also be as complex as installing a renewable energy source.