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6 www.InsulationOutlook.com By Je P. Fox Insulating metal buildings is not as simple as it once was. Do you follow ASHRAE 90.1-2010 IECC-2012 IECC-2009 or the new IECC-2015 Attempting to navigate the complex world of code compliance can provide somewhat of a challenge. There are 2 key dierences between ASHRAE 90.1-2010 and IECC-2012 regarding the building envelope and building insulation. Only ASHRAE 90.1 has a specic designation for a building that is unconditioned and only semi-heated. Semi-heated unconditioned buildings will meet the energy code with a single layer system in the roof and walls based on ASHRAE 90.1-2010. It is also important to keep in mind that state codes will override local city codesunless the local code is more stringent in which case it must be used. In addition to the code compliance tools listed above NIAs metal building laminator members can be a valuable resource. For guidance from a NIA laminator in your state visit www.insulation.org membership. NIAs online membership directory can be used to search for insulation laminators contractors distributor fabricators and manufacturers by specialty and location. Code Busters Single-layer systems that use a combination of fiber glass to fill the cavity between the girts and foam tape between the wall panels and girts. Double-layer systems that are essentially the single layer system detailed above with a second layer of fiber glass installed between the outer girt flanges and the wall panels for added thermal performance. Depending upon the U-factors required foam tape or 1 foam thermal blocks are also used. With these double layer systems U-factors as low as 0.036 can be achieved. Rigid Continuous Insulation As detailed previously for the roof system continuous foam insulation is preferred for high-temperature high-humidity applications. The same advantages and caveats discussed for the roof also apply to the walls. Conclusions New web-based tools have been introduced to help architects designers and builders navigate the adoption status of state energy codes and provide guidance on the insulation system options available for code compliance. A variety of new high R-Valuelow U-Factor insulation systems have been developed for metal building roofs and walls that meet the thermal requirements specified in the current energy codes and standards. While these new systems may not currently be listed in the Appendix Tables of the ASHRAE 90.1 Standard provisions in the codes allow for alternate systems to be used as long as supporting thermal performance documentation is provided. When considering the insulation system options available for your application it is important to consult with your insula- tion supplier or contractor. They will be able to provide guidance on thermal performance installation and cost.To learn more about options for reaching out to compliance experts in your area see the sidebar Code Busters. The author has previously published on this topic and portions of this article may have been reprinted from the September 2015 issue of Metal Construction News tinyurl. comztce6u8. Hal Robbins has a degree in Chemistry from Radford University. Previously he worked at CertainTeeds Insulation Group from 1981 to 1994 in Product Development with a focus on Facings Adhesives Coatings and Fire Testing. Mr. Robbins has been the Technical Director for Lamtec Corporation lamtec.comabout-lamtec since 1994 and is actively involved with ASHRAE and ASTM. He can be reached at RobbinsHallamtec.com.