Radon-Resistant Concrete Masonry Foundation Walls
INTRODUCTION The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that nearly 1 of 15 homes in the United States has elevated…
Resources
Control of Air Leakage in Concrete Masonry Walls
INTRODUCTION Energy efficiency in buildings has become increasingly important. Whether complying with newer energy codes or gaining recognition for sustainable…
Thermal Bridges in Wall Construction
INTRODUCTION Thermal bridging occurs when a relatively small area of a wall, floor or roof loses much more heat than…
Insulating Conrete Masonry Walls
INTRODUCTION The variety of concrete masonry wall constructions provides fora number of insulating strategies, including: interior insulation,insulated cavities, insulation inserts,…
Concrete Masonry Radiant Heating/Cooling Systems
INTRODUCTION Radiant heat has long been popular due to its comfort, quiet operation and cleanliness. The radiant element is directly…
Concrete Masonry & Hardscape Products in LEED® 2009
INTRODUCTION Concrete masonry can make a significant contribution to meeting LEED Green Building certification. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design…
Earth-Sheltered Buildings
INTRODUCTION Earth-sheltering refers to using earth as part of a building’s thermal control system Earth-sheltered buildings can be either built…
Determining the Recycled Content of Concrete Masonry Products
INTRODUCTION Sustainable development has been defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of…
Passive Solar Design
INTRODUCTION Passive solar design involves utilizing a building’s basic elements walls, windows and floors—to produce a comfortable environment with less…
Energy Code Compliance Using Comcheck™
INTRODUCTION COMcheckTM (ref. 1) is software developed by the U.S. Department of Energy specifically for demonstrating compliance with nationally recognized…