37-065 (15) 37.. Ogg.
Coldham Architects, LLC Tel:413.544.3616 Fax: 6802
t 155 Pine St. Amherst, MA 01002 www.ColdhamArchitects.com
MEMO
To: Mr. Tony Patillo Tel: 587-1240
Building Inspector Fax: 587-1272
City of Northampton
Town Hall,Northampton, MA 01060
r ^
From: Thomas RC Hartman,AIA
Cc: Steve Ferrari, Kohl Construction
Date: 13 Feb 2006 Project 02-03 RHC
Subject: Unvented roofs and vapor barriers Total pages: I
Mr. Patillo,
Per our discussion last week regarding the potential use of cellulose insulation in an
unvented roof assembly, please find the attached 7 documents that reference the evolving
perspectives of venting roofs and use of vapor retarders in association with the current
code.
The purpose of me writing is to determine whether two things might change from the
permit drawings filed for the Common House at Rocky Hill Cohousing.
1. Delete venting in the roof assembly for a completely filled cellulose cavity at 3.5
p.c.f. (2x12 rafter @ 16" o:,)
2. Delete the poly vapor retarder at the walls and ceilings.
In consideration of these deletions, please note that our firm can assure an air barrier that
is between 1-1.25 square inches per 100 sf of building envelope. This is accomplished by
performing a blower door test once the insulation is complete and looking for air leakage
with a smoke pencil.
To evaluate the performance of cellulose alone as an air barrier, we will be performing a
test on the last housing unit to be insulated(Unit 25) within the next two weeks to further
inform the decisions at the Common House. There will be three tests and I will forward
the results of the first two when available:
a. with cellulose installed with netting only
b. with poly installed and taped over netted cellulose
c. after drywall and trim installed(typical Energy Star test)
Page 1 of 2
-41
.. ^
eir
C ``
MEMO
Kohl Construction is proceeding on the basis that the roof is vented and the poly vapor
retarder will be installed per permit drawings unless directed otherwise. The schedule
appears that a decision from me will be required by the end of this month.
I will contact you shortly to discuss .
Since ay, . j • iIt
• ••- asR Haitm/ . , M•
Enclosures:
o Letter to Tom Riley from National Fiber (NF)- Dec 9, 2005
o Letter from NF-re: vapor transmission
o Letter re: Vapor retarder from Mark Kelley, PE- Feb 28, 2005
o Letter from NF- re: unvented cathedral ceilings
o Paper from NF-re Fire Blocking
o Paper from NF- re Mosture management
o Paper from Building Science Corporation- re Roof Design
Coldham Architects,LLC
Page 2 oft
•
NF
NATIONAL FIBER
A DIVISION OF MACGREGOR BAY CORPORATION
December 9, 2005
Dear Tom Riley,
National Fiber has been producing cellulose insulation in our Belchertown, MA
manufacturing facility since 1978 and distributing it throughout the Northeast. Research in
the areas of building science continues to expand our understanding of building systems and
is challenging many of our long held beliefs and building code requirements. National Fiber
is a member of the Building Enclosure Council of the Boston Society of Architects and
actively participates in building science events nationwide.
National Fiber is asking for a statewide code exemption under the Alternate Materials and
Systems provision of the code for the use of our cellulose insulation in the following
residential and commercial applications:
1. In building assemblies (i.e. walls, ceilings, etc.), preempting the requirement for code
mandated vapor barriers.
2. Constructing non-vented cathedral (i.e. sloped) ceilings and flat roof assemblies.
3. For use as a fire blocking material when installed at depths of 14.5 inches or greater.
This request is based upon both building science and a historical use of cellulose insulation
in these applications nationwide. Our position is that when cellulose insulation is used in the
three applications outlined above, it is not only equivalent to conventional practices meeting
current code requirements in the State of Massachusetts, but it also exceeds them in terms
of building durability, safety, and performance; and it certainly meets the standard for the
Alternate Materials and Systems provision. We have been successful in many areas of the
Northeast in convincing local code officials that the building science and testing presented
below supports our position, resulting in thousands of successful installations. Unfortunately,
this town by town approach has been very time consuming for National Fiber and local code
enforcement personnel; therefore, we request a statewide approval for use of our cellulose
insulation without vapor barriers, in un-vented roof assemblies, and as a fire block in the
State of Massachusetts.
Our Technical Manager, Bill Hulstrunk, is available to meet with your technical group at its
convenience to answer any questions or to provide additional information pertaining to this
request. He can be reached on his cell phone at(413) 688-6133 or by email at
whulstrunk@tds.net . Thank you for your consideration of our request.
Sincerely,
-
146/1_
Chris Hoch
President
50 DEPOT STREET, BEICHERTOWN, MA 01007-9619 . 413-283-8747 . FAR: 413-283-2462
E-Mai ADDRESS: general®natlfiber com WEB PAGE: www.natIfiber com
NF
NATIONAL FIBER
A DIVISION OF MACGREGOR BAY CORPORATION
To whom it may concern:
This letter addresses vapor transmission through our Cel-Pak and Nu-Wool cellulose
insulations. Moisture moves by two transport mechanisms, air movement and by
diffusion. Of these, air movement is the most significant accounting for over 98% of
the total and is the primary cause for moisture related building failures. When
cellulose insulation is blown In or sprayed in above 3.2 Ibs/cuft, the density of the
material will block air movement generated by wind, stack effect and mechanical
imbalances within the building. By blocking air movement we will reduce moisture
movement to inconsequential levels in building assemblies. Any remaining moisture
moving by diffusion will be further blocked by primers of paints used on the interior
surfaces.
In our Northeast climate, a vapor barrier is not only unnecessary but can be
potentially harmful especially during the summer months in air conditioned buildings
when warm moist air passes through wall assemblies and condenses on the outside
of the cool poly vapor barrier. The hygroscopic nature of our cellulose insulation
allows it to manage and wick moisture from areas of greater to less concentrations
as long as the path is not blocked with a vapor barrier. During most of the year in
the Northeast a vapor permeable wall will tend to dry to the outside, while in the
summer, this same wall will tend to dry to the inside. Our borate based NuWool
cellulose contains an EPA fungicide which resists the growth of mold, even when
exposed to conditions favorable to mold growth.
Tens of thousands of homes weatherized with cellulose insulation since the 1970's,
with no vapor barriers and no evidence of mold, are a testament to this claim.
Sophisticated moisture modeling of cellulose insulated building assemblies without a
vapor barrier show faster drying and lower overall moisture levels over identical
assemblies with vapor bafflers installed. Please see the attached report from Mark
E. Kelley III, PE.
In summary, we do not recommend the use of vapor bafflers with our product except
in circumstances of exceptionally high moisture levels i.e. pool facilities, and
warrantee our cellulose for the life of the building when installed by a certified
National Fiber contractor.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please call me at
(802) 485-5735 or by email at whulstrunkatds.net.
Sincerely,
Bill Hulstrunk
Technical Manager for National Fiber
50 DEPOT STREET, BELCHERTOWN, MA 01007-9619 . 413-283-8747 . Fsa: 413-283-2462
E-MAL ADDRESS: generalenatlfber.com WEB PAGE: w-.w.natlfibercom
BUILDING SCIENCE Mark E. Kelley III, PE
PH 978 456-6950 FX 978 456-8080 85 Depot Rd,Harvard,MA 01451
February 28,2005
To whom it may concern:
Dear Sir or Madam,
In regard to the 2X6 wood-framed cellulose insulated wall system, we have investigated options for
moisture control and air infiltration control.
Experience in the field, research and moisture modeling all are in agreement that the lowest potential
for moisture accumulation in a wall of this type occurs when no vapor retarder is used on the inside of
the insulated wall. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory has produced a sophisticated moisture
modeling program called WUFI. This program is a far better analysis of moisture potential than the
older dew point approach, and can give detailed moisture profiles for wall systems over time. Below
are two graphs showing modeled moisture content of walls with and without vapor retarder. The
systems were modeled for 1 % years starling in January, with typal weather (temperature, rain
humidity,etc.)and interior moisture and temperature conditions. As can be seen, both assemblies will
dry out over time, but the system without vapor retarder dries more quickly and thoroughly than the one
with the vapor retarder.
Two by six wall construction with exterior air barrier,cellulose insulation and 6 mil polyethylene
vapor retarder.
40
x 30
c
20
E 10
0
0
0 96 192 288 384 480 576
Time[d[
• Page 2 February 28,2005
Two by six wall construction with exterior air baffler,cellulose insulation and no vapor retarder.
40 -
C
C
24
m
Ts 10
0
0 96 192 288 384 480 576
Time{d]
Our investigations and the recommendations of the cellulose industry agree that the wall system with
the lowest moisture accumulation potential is one with no interior vapor retarder. Further, the draft
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), does not require a vapor retarder in walls for
Massachusetts because of budding science considerations. In summary, we believe that the science
and experience with these wall systems strongly indicates that the best way to construct the wall is to
omit the interior oda retarder.
I would like to emphasize that builders are trying to build the most efficient, healthy and durable houses
possible. It is true that the omission of the vapor retarder will save a small amount of money, but the
reasons for doing so have only to do with doing it right, not cost savings. The builder is primarily
interested in producing the twst wall system possiNe, and it is our belief that the best cellulose
insulated wall will have no vapor retarder.
As a professional engineer, I attest to the omission of the vapor retarder in this case as the best
approach for building performance and durability. On this basis we wish to apply for an exception to
Section 780 CMR 34.2.1 of the Massachusetts State Building Code to allow this improved mnstnrction.
0011 sr ra4„
Since
l74/) t 1 J.,
AFU Cr slit? fR
Mark E.Kelley Ill, PE
President <"
Budding Science Engineering
NF
NATIONAL FIBER
A DIVISION OF MACGREGOR BAY CORPORATION
To whom it may concern:
Unvented cathedral ceilings have been used successfully for many years across the
United States and Canada. When cellulose insulation is installed at high densities(3.5
lbsicuft), it provides a barrier to the warm moist air from the living space below and
eliminates the need for attic ventilation in cathedral ceilings. The lower density of
fiberglass insulation does not provide the same barrier to warm moist air,and therefore
requires venting to remove the moisture and hot air from a fiberglass insulated cathedral
ceiling.
o Oak Ridge National Laboratory states in their publication Moisture Control
Handbook, under the heading "Should cathedral ceilings be ventilated?"they
recommended"Not if that space is tightly packed with insulation,"
o Researchers at the University of Illinois studied the effects of attic venting and
heat transfer and concluded "...an analysis of the data reveals that the addition
of 2-inch thick insulation is considerably more effective at reducing ceiling heat
gains that the maximum ventilation rate When 3$/8 inches is added thee'ec.ts
of ventilation is almost insignificant°
o At the ASHRAE/DQE Thermal Envelopes Conference in Clearwater, Florida, an
international group of building scientists and contractors concluded that un-
vented cathedral ceilings provide better thermal performance and better moisture
protection than conventionally vented cathedral ceilings.
o Roofing Siding & Insulation magazine advocated unvented cathedral ceilings in
their magazine"If properly constructed and sealed to prevent air leakage°
o Princeton University found that cellulose insulation has the lowest air infiltration
rates of any commonly used home insulation.
One of the concerns raised is the shingle warranty. We are not aware of any warranty
that is invalid because the unvented cathedral is packed with insulation. Studies have
proven that excess heat of a roof is a function of roof color and not ventilation.
National Fiber warranties its cellulose insulation in unvented cathedral roof assemblies
with rafter depths of 2 x 10 or greater and having a minimum installed density of 3.5
lbs/cuft when installed by a certified National Fiber contractor.
We recognize that interior moisture conditions can also have a detrimental effect on any
insulation system. This warranty does not extend to homes that have an unusually high
interior relative humidity levels, such as indoor heated pool enclosures.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please call me at(802)
485-5735 or by email at whulstrunkCrD_tds net.
Sincerely,
6;2i c9~
Bill Huistrunk
Technical Manager for National Fiber
SO Duce Sn., ,(, 8i i,n,e,omv. MA 01007-9619 * 413-283-8747 - FAA: 413-283-2462
E-Mn, An4 general4➢rwilfiber corn. Woa ova-vonv,natIfibe4 corn
National Fiber's Cellulose Insulation as a Fire Block
Fire blocking is designed to stop the passage of fire and hot gases through walls, floors and
concealed spaces. There are many materials and methods, including National Fibers
cellulose insulation that can be used effectively as a fire blocking material.
Historical Perspective
The use of fire stopping provisions in the U.S. building codes dates back to the mid 1980's.
The earlier fire stopping language was adapted from provisions for non-combustible
materials,tested in accordance with ASTM E 136. This methodology was being used for
specifying materials suitable for use around chimneys and metal flue pipes, which can
become quite hot. After implementing the non-combustible material language, code and
building officials began to recognize that this requirement"missed the mark", since neither
fire retardant treated wood fire blocking nor 5/8"sheetrock that had been demonstrated to
perform in fire rated assemblies would pass the narrowly defined ASTM E 136 test. In 2000,
both the IBC and IRC (in Section R602.8)eliminated the"non-combustible" material
requirement for fire blocks and adopted the language"approved material to resist the free
passage of flame and the products of combustion", which more precisely reflected the intent
of the code.
ASTM E 136 Test
The ASTM E 136 test exposes a sample of material on a tray to 1382°F in a vertical tube
furnace for a minimum of five minutes. The material fails the test if:
1. The temperature inside the material rises above 1436°F.
2. The material loses up to 50%of its mass and any flaming is observed after the first
30 seconds of the test.
3. The material loses over 50%of its mass and any flaming is observed.
Unfaced fiberglass insulation passes the ASTM E 136 test, but at temperatures above
1100°F begins to soften and melt. Since the material is weighed on the tray, even though it
may have melted, it would still pass the test. Unfortunately, when glass fiber is subjected to
structural fires, this melting allows flames to spread very quickly along building cavities.
Noncombustible material ratings do not necessary equate with increased fire safety or
performance.
Cellulose insulation on the other hand, like all wood based products, does not meet the
ASTM E136 standard due to surface flaming. Ironically, it is the surface flaming that allows
the boric acid fire retardant to produce a protective layer of char on the surface of the
cellulose insulation, which impedes further flame spread and damage to the material. Also,
cellulose insulation does not melt, providing an effective barrier against the spread of flames
and hot combustion gases.
Fire Resistant Properties
National Fiber's borate treated cellulose insulation achieves the highest and most fire
resistant material rating of Class A/Class 1 under ASTM E 84 and passes the strict
Federal 16 CFR Part 1209, ASTM C739 and ASTM E 970 requirements, having a flame
spread index of 20 and a smoke developed of 0.
ASTM E-119 Test
The ASTM E 119 test exposes various building assemblies to an open flame.
Temperatures are recorded on both sides of the assembly with temperatures as high as
2350°F on the flame side. The test continues until the assembly fails or collapses and
the recorded time is the fire rating of the assembly.
Adding cellulose insulation to wood frame walls increases their fire resistance rating by
15 minutes, Our cellulose is ASTM E 119 tested and UL approved for use in a variety of
wall and floor/ceiling fire rated assemblies. For example, Southwest Research Institute
Project #01-5920-611 tested and approved a one hour fire rated load bearing wall
assembly, consisting of a single layer of Y"sheetrock on both sides of a 2 x 4 stud wall
filled with cellulose insulation. Rock wool,fiberglass or foam insulation can not be
substituted in this type of fire rated wail assembly since they do not offer the same level
of fire protection.
In 1994 the Research Council of Canada(NRCC) reported that fiberglass decreased the
fire resistance of insulated walls while cellulose produced a 22%to 55%increase in fire
resistance. In 1995 the NRCC tested floor-ceiling assemblies and found that cellulose
increased the fire resistance more than twice that of fiberglass. The report compared
rock wool and cellulose fiber insulations and found that the cellulose increased the fire
resistance over rock wool by 40%.
Current Building Codes
National Fiber's cellulose insulation has been approved as fire blocking material under
Section 708.2.1, Item 1, of the UBC, and Section 716.2.1 of the IBC. Cellulose is
permitted as an alternate to the fire blocking in Section R602.8, Item 1, of the IRC, as
validated by Omega Point Laboratories Report for Project No. 16094-11638.
The International Building Code(IBC)2000&2001 Amendments also allow electrical
outlet boxes to be installed on opposite sides of a one hour firewall if they are offset by
3.5 inches of cellulose insulation. This offers greater design flexibility over fiberglass
which requires a minimum of 24 inches separation between outlets.
Application of Cellulose Fire Blocking
When installed in a dry or spray application to a depth of 14.5 Inches, cellulose
outperforms conventional wood fire blocking in the Omega Point fire blocking tests,
Project No. 16094-11638. Cellulose insulation may be used in new or existing wood or
steel stud walls and partitions of combustible construction with stud spacing up to 24
inches on center. In uninsulated walls or partitions, cellulose is sprayed or dry blown,filling
the stud cavity completely. Cellulose fire blocking can also be installed in walls and
partitions with existing insulation, by cutting and pushibg away the existing insulation to
form a minimum 14.5 inch deep cavity. Cellulose insulation is sprayed or dry blown into
this cavity,filling the full 14.5 inches or greater depth and contacting all surfaces.
Conclusion
Numerous US and Canadian studies, including full size burn tests, have confirmed
cellulose insulation's superior performance in terms of fire resistance. The permanently
impregnated borate based tire retardants and high installed densities allow cellulose
insulation to retard the propagation of fire and hot gases by resisting flame spread and
remaining in place much more effectively than other types of insulation and non fire
retardant treated building materials.
Therefore, we are recommending that National Fiber's cellulose insulation, when
installed at a depth of 14.5 inches or greater, be allowed as an alternative fire blocking
material in the state of Massachusetts.
How Cellulose Insulation Manages Moisture without Vapor Barriers and
Performs in Non-vented Cathedral and Flat Roof Assemblies
Historical Perspective
Cellulose has been used as a building insulation for a long time. Thomas Jefferson
used an early form of cellulose in his Montecello home more than 200 years ago.
The modern form of cellulose has been in production since the 1920's, coming into
general use after World War 2, and was used extensively in electrically heated
homes during the 1950's and 1960's. After the energy crisis of the early 1970's, over
a million homes were either retrofitted or constructed using cellulose insulation, most
without vapor barriers or venting in cathedral ceiling or flat roof applications. The
cellulose industry continues to evolve with new fiberization processing technology.
Improved application techniques, including dry dense pack and high pressure low
moisture spray, assures consistency and exceptional performance.
Over the years, thousands of cellulose insulated homes have been renovated or
expanded, giving us an opportunity to see how the insulation and the building
structure have performed over time. National Fiber has never seen, nor are we
aware of, a single documented instance where there has been either a failure or
degradation of the building structure due to vapor diffusion through our cellulose
insulation. This should be contrasted against the widespread deterioration and
instances of mold found in air permeable insulation systems (i.e. fiberglass and rock
wool) from gaps in the air barrier, typically found around outlets, recessed lights or
other penetrations.
Properties of Cellulose
Cellulose insulation is made from re-cycled cellulosic newprint, with boric acid or a
boric acid - ammonium sulfate blend added to suppress combustion. The ability of
cellulose insulation to manage moisture without a vapor barrier or venting is a
function of many aspects including the cellulose fibers themselves, the fire retardant
chemicals, and the installation methods.
The beneficial moisture management properties that cellulose fibers impart upon the
cellulose insulation include the effects of hysteresis, the hygroscopic nature of the
material, and its storage and buffering properties. Hysteresis allows the cellulose
fibers in the insulation to remain at a lower moisture content than the surrounding air.
This allows the cellulose insulation to remain at 7% moisture content when exposed
to a constant indoor relative humidity of 50% without a vapor barrier. In order for the
cellulose fibers to reach the fiber saturation point (the point at which liquid water
becomes available) it would require an exposure to a constant indoor humidity level
of well over 80%. (see Figure 1)
out of the top of a vented roof will exceed the temperatures of an equivalent
unvented roof assembly. If heat from solar gain were a factor in shingle life, then
shingles over vented roofs would fail more quickly at the top of the roof than the
bottom, which is not the case. Research has shown that shingle color, not
ventilation, has the greatest impact on roof temperatures.
Research on Non-Vented Ceilings
o Oak Ridge National Laboratory, in their publication Moisture Control Handbook,
answers the question, "Should cathedral ceilings be ventilated?," by
recommending, "Not if that space is tightly packed with insulation."
o Roofing Siding & Insulation magazine advocated unvented cathedral ceilings in
their magazine, "if properly constructed and sealed to prevent air leakage."
o At the ASHRAE/DOE Thermal Envelopes Conference in Clearwater, Florida, an
international group of building scientists and contractors concluded that un-vented
cathedral ceilings provide better thermal performance and better moisture
protection than conventionally vented cathedral ceilings.
o Researchers at the University of Illinois studied the effects of attic venting and
heat transfer and concluded "...an analysis of the data reveals that the addition of
2-inch thick insulation is considerably more effective at reducing ceiling heat gains
that the maximum ventilation rate. When 3 5/8 inches is added the effects of
ventilation is almost insignificant."
o Princeton University found that cellulose insulation has one of the lowest air
infiltration rates of any commonly used home insulation.
Conclusion
The ability of cellulose to excel in a wide range of moisture conditions comes from a
variety of attributes, including its physical properties, chemical components and
installation techniques. These attributes allow cellulose to provide superior insulation
performance in moisture conditions that would cause other insulation products to fail.
The vapor retarder and cathedral ceiling venting provisions of the code are designed
to protect buildings from an accumulation of moisture which would accelerate the
deterioration of the structure. Cellulose insulation accomplishes this task without the
need of a separate vapor retarder or venting in cathedral ceiling or flat roof
applications, while at the same time providing superior thermal, fire and sound
performance.
Therefore, National Fiber is suggesting that you take under consideration a statewide
code exemption under the Alternate Materials and Systems provision of the
Massachusetts building code for the use of our cellulose insulation in building
assemblies without a vapor barrier, and in non vented cathedral and flat roof
assemblies.
responsible for the majority of the building failures we see with air permeable fibrous
insulation materials. Diffusion on the other hand transports moisture at a much
slower rate, and is slowed further by paints and other surface finishes.
Current Code Provisions
More recent versions of the building codes, including the 1999 National Building
Code (NBC), Chapter 13, Section 7.23.3.1; 2000 International Building Code (IBC),
Section 1403,3; and International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), Section
502.1.1, allow the use of cellulose insulation as an alternate/ exemption to the
requirements for the installation of a separate vapor barrier.
Vapor Barrier Research
This is what some of the leading building scientists and researchers are saying on
the subject of omitting vapor retarders when using cellulose insulation:
o Research by Canadian Researchers, reported in "A side-by-side field test in
Calgary, Alberta, sponsored by the Canadian Mortgage Housing Corporation,
found that 6-inch walls insulated with damp cellulose performed just as well
without a vapor retarder as identical walls with a polyethylene vapor retarder.
Five months after construction, the moisture content in both wall sections was
"nearly identical."
o Mark Kelley, PE and President of Building Science Engineering modeled cellulose
insulated wall assemblies with and without a poly vapor barrier using a moisture
modeling program called WUFI and found that "...the system without vapor
retarder dries more quickly and thoroughly than the one with the vapor retarder."
He concluded that "...the best cellulose insulated wall will have no vapor barrier."
Many code officials and building scientists have questioned the need for a poly vapor
retarders in climates with both heating and cooling loads:
o Building Scientist Joe Lstiburek in his Moisture Control Handbook Errata stated
"Polyethylene should not be installed on the interior of any assembly —with the
exception of above grade walls and ceilings in locations with 8,000 heating
degree days or greater." The heating degree days for the state of Massachusetts
is below 8000 in all areas. This recommendation is based upon the fact that
during the summer, warm moist air infiltrates building assemblies, it condenses on
cool surface of the poly in air conditioned buildings, and this leads to mold, rot and
structural degradation.
o Canadian research scientist John Staube noted "People install vapor retarders to
control outward diffusion, but in modern buildings a bigger problem is inward
vapor drives during warm weather." He continued "Poly vapor retarders are
unnecessary, even in most cold climates. But they are a serious problem in mixed
climates where the presence of poly practically eliminates the ability of a wall to
dry inward,"
o The USDOE Building America "Vapor Barrier Journal, Paper 5.C.2.1," lists, under
the following headings:
o "The following things are discouraged: The installation of vapor barriers such as
polyethylene vapor barriers, foil faced batt insulation and reflective radiant barrier
foil insulation on the interior of air-conditioned assemblies?
o "The following things are encouraged: The construction of assemblies that are
able to dry by diffusion to at least one side and in many cases both sides."
Other research has found air and water leakage to be the most significant factors
involving moisture in buildings, The high installed density of the cellulose insulation
blocks air leakage, while poly vapor barriers slow the drying of building assemblies
should they get wet due to water intrusion.
o Three extensive field studies conducted by George Tsongas, professor of
mechanical engineering at Portland State University, found virtually no
relationship between vapor retarder presence and moisture content in walls. A
fourth study did find a correlation between air leakage sites in walls and moisture
problems.
o Anton TenWolde of the USDA Forest products laboratory states, "Diffusion is
hardly ever what is going on when you have moisture problems,".... "This
research has led to a disproportionate emphasis on the water vapor permeability
of various materials, allowing a minor problem to dwarf causes that are more
significant." According to TenWolde, "diffusion runs a distant third to both water
leakage and water vapor carried by air movement as the bigger culprits behind
the majority of moisture problems in buildings."
o The United States Department of Energy (USDOE) "Wall Insulation" technology
fact sheet states, under the heading of Moisture Control, "It is a myth that
installing a vapor barrier is the most important step for controlling moisture in
walls. Vapor barriers only retard moisture due to diffusion, while most moisture
enters walls either though fluid capillary action or as water vapor through air
leaks"
Non-Vented Cathedral and Flat Ceilings
The same air blocking and moisture management properties that allow cellulose to
perform well without a vapor barrier, also allow it to work well in non vented cathedral
and flat ceilings. National Fiber warranties its cellulose insulation in unvented
cathedral roof assemblies with rafter depths of 2 x 10 or greater and having a
minimum installed density of 33 lbs/cuft when installed by a certified National Fiber
contractor. We recognize that interior moisture conditions can also have a
detrimental effect on any insulation system. We do not recommend this treatment in
buildings that have an unusually high interior relative humidity levels, such as indoor
heated pool enclosures.
Earlier concerns with elevated roof temperature and reduced shingle life have been
investigated and found to be insignificant. We are not aware of any shingle warranty
that is invalid because the unvented cathedral is packed with cellulose insulation. A
vented roof system can be thought of as a giant solar collector, where cooler air is
drawn into the bottom, continually heated as it moves up the roof system before
being exhausted out the ridge of gable end vents. On a sunny day, the heat exiting
out of the top of a vented roof will exceed the temperatures of an equivalent
unvented roof assembly. if heat from solar gain were a factor in shingle life, then
shingles over vented roofs would fail more quickly at the top of the roof than the
bottom, which is not the case. Research has shown that shingle color, not
ventilation, has the greatest impact on roof temperatures.
Research on Non-Vented Ceilings
o Oak Ridge National Laboratory, in their publication Moisture Control Handbook,
answers the question, "Should cathedral ceilings be ventilated?," by
recommending, "Not if that space is tightly packed with insulation."
o Roofing Siding & Insulation magazine advocated unvented cathedral ceilings in
their magazine, If properly constructed and sealed to prevent air leakage."
o At the ASHRAEDOE Thermal Envelopes Conference in Clearwater, Florida, an
international group of building scientists and contractors concluded that un-vented
cathedral ceilings provide better thermal performance and better moisture
protection than conventionally vented cathedral ceilings.
o Researchers at the University of Illinois studied the effects of attic venting and
heat transfer and concluded"...an analysis of the data reveals that the addition of
2-inch thick insulation is considerably more effective at reducing ceiling heat gains
that the maximum ventilation rate. When 3 518 inches is added the effects of
ventilation is almost insignificant."
o Princeton University found that cellulose insulation has one of the lowest air
infiltration rates of any commonly used home insulation.
Conclusion
The ability of cellulose to excel in a wide range of moisture conditions comes from a
variety of attributes, including its physical properties, chemical components and
installation techniques. These attributes allow cellulose to provide superior insulation
performance in moisture conditions that would cause other insulation products to fail.
The vapor retarder and cathedral ceiling venting provisions of the code are designed
to protect buildings from an accumulation of moisture which would accelerate the
deterioration of the structure. Cellulose insulation accomplishes this task without the
need of a separate vapor retarder or venting in cathedral ceiling or flat roof
applications, while at the same time providing superior thermal, fire and sound
performance.
Therefore, National Fiber is suggesting that you take under consideration a statewide
code exemption under the Alternate Materials and Systems provision of the
Massachusetts building code for the use of our cellulose insulation in building
assemblies without a vapor barrier, and in non vented cathedral and flat roof
assemblies.
a
o "The following things are discouraged: The installation of vapor barriers such as
polyethylene vapor barriers, foil faced batt insulation and reflective radiant barrier
foil insulation on the interior of air-conditioned assemblies."
o 'The following things are encouraged: The construction of assemblies that are
able to dry by diffusion to at least one side and in many cases both sides."
Other research has found air and water leakage to be the most significant factors
involving moisture in buildings. The high installed density of the cellulose insulation
blocks air leakage, while poly vapor barriers slow the drying of building assemblies
should they get wet due to water intrusion.
o Three extensive field studies conducted by George Tsongas, professor of
mechanical engineering at Portland State University, found virtually no
relationship between vapor retarder presence and moisture content in walls. A
fourth study did find a correlation between air leakage sites in walls and moisture
problems.
o Anton TenWolde of the USDA Forest products laboratory states, "Diffusion is
hardly ever what is going on when you have moisture problems,".... "This
research has led to a disproportionate emphasis on the water vapor permeability
of various materials, allowing a minor problem to dwarf causes that are more
significant." According to TenWolde, "diffusion runs a distant third to both water
leakage and water vapor carried by air movement as the bigger culprits behind
the majority of moisture problems in buildings."
o The United States Department of Energy (USDOE) "Wall Insulation" technology
fact sheet states, under the heading of Moisture Control, "It is a myth that
installing a vapor barrier is the most important step for controlling moisture in
walls. Vapor barriers only retard moisture due to diffusion, while most moisture
enters walls either though fluid capillary action or as water vapor through air
leaks."
Non-Vented Cathedral and Flat Ceilings
The same air blocking and moisture management properties that allow cellulose to
perform well without a vapor barrier, also allow it to work well in non vented cathedral
and flat ceilings. National Fiber warranties its cellulose insulation in unvented
cathedral roof assemblies with rafter depths of 2 x 10 or greater and having a
minimum installed density of 3.5 lbs/cuft when installed by a certified National Fiber
contractor. We recognize that interior moisture conditions can also have a
detrimental effect on any insulation system. We do not recommend this treatment in
buildings that have an unusually high interior relative humidity levels, such as indoor
heated pool enclosures.
Earlier concerns with elevated roof temperature and reduced shingle life have been
investigated and found to be insignificant. We are not aware of any shingle warranty
that is invalid because the unvented cathedral is packed with cellulose insulation, A
vented roof system can be thought of as a giant solar collector, where cooler air is
drawn into the bottom, continually heated as it moves up the roof system before
being exhausted out the ridge of gable end vents. On a sunny day, the heat exiting
®2084 Building Science Corporation 1
Roof Design
Hoofs can be designed and constructed to be either vented the roof deck and the top of the cavity insulation.This not
or unvented in any hygro-thermal zone, a code requirement but ought to be(only 1-inch is typically
In cold climates,the primary purpose of attic ventilation is
specified).
to maintain a cold roof temperature to avoid ice dams cre- In addition to an air barrier at the ceiling line,a Class II va-
ated by melting snow,and to vent moisture that moves pot retarder should be installed in Climate Zone 6 and Cli-
from the conditioned space to the attic.Melted snow,in mate Zone 7.A Class III vapor retarder is acceptable in Cli-
this case,is caused by heat loss from the conditioned space. mate Zone 5.
In hot climates,the primary purpose of attic ventilation is Class I vapor retarders(i.e.vapor barriers)can be installed
to expel solar heated hot air from the attic to lessen the in vented roof assemblies in Climate Zone 6 and Climate
building cooling load. Zone 7 but should be avoided in Climate Zone 5 as top side
condensation may occur in the summer months during air
The amount of roof cavity ventilation is specified by nu-
merous ratios of free vent area to insulated ceiling area
conditioning periods.
ranging from 1:150 to 1:600 depending on which building No interior roof assembly-side vapor control is required or
code is consulted,the 1:300 ratio being the most common. recommended in climate zones other than cold or very
Control of ice dams,moisture accumulation and heat gain cold.
can also be facilitated by unvented roof design.
Roof"sWalon Co
n eron
s ridge—.
Oeapproach Insulation wind lle
2'minimum space
In cold climates the main strategy that should be utilized water protection venin
when designing roofs to be free from moisture problems
membrane 4:-.0"" 'III e
and ice dams along with control of heat gain or heat loss I I �I���I!'!'!'!'�,'�'�'
regardless of ventilation approach is the elimination of air _/'I'�II'II�11� �1, '
movement,particularly exfiltrating air.This can be accord- a: _
plished by the installation of an air barrier system or by the �I— =04i• Gypsum board air arrier
control of the air pressure difference across the roof sys- d►�
tem.
soffit vent '� Consider increasing depth or
Air barriers stems are typically the most common a - I �� 'russes or ov9rs'i:edeeper
ong
Y YP Y P Vinyl
nvmr I �� trusses 9B11
proach,however,air pressure control approaches are be- aluminum siding I Caulking sealant
coming more common especially in cases involving reme- Rigid insulation i � Gypsum board
Flints)
work on existing structures. (taped or sealed �nts) a
Vapor diffusion should be considered as a secondary mois- eolulossee an owidenl:ayn'
ture transport mechanism when designing and building cellulose
loam
roofs.Specific vapor retarders are often unnecessary if ap-
propriate air movement control is provided or if control of Figure 1
condensing surface temperatures is provided. hell Roof Assembly
•Roof insulation thermal resistance(depth)at truss heel(roof
perimeter)should be equal or greater to thermal resistance of
Vented Roof Design exterior wall
•1.300 roof ventilation ratio recommended
Vented roofs should not communicate with the conditioned
space—they are coupled to the exterior.Therefore,an air
barrier at the ceiling line should be present to isolate the at- Ihallatod Raaf Design
tic space from the conditioned space.No services such as
HVAC distribution ducts,air handlers,plumbing or fire Unvented roof design falls into two categories: systems
sprinkler systems should be located external to the air bar-
where condensing surface temperatures are controlled and
riot(Figure I). systems where condensing surface temperatures are not
controlled.The two categories essentially are the demarca-
The recommended ventilation ratio to provide in vented tion between regions where cold weather conditions occur
roof assemblies when an air barrier is present,is the 1:300 with sufficient frequency and intensity that sufficient mois-
ratio(as specified by most codes). ture accumulation from interior sources can occur on an
In vented cathedral ceiling assemblies a minimum 2-inch uninsulated roof deck to risk mold,corrosion and decay
problems.
clear airspace is recommended between the underside of
2D114 Building Science Corporation 2
The key is to keep the roof deck—the principle condens- construction has sufficient hygric buffer capacity to absorb,
ing surface in roof assemblies—sufficiently warm redistribute and re-release significant quantities of con-
throughoitt the year.This can be accomplished either be- densed moisture should intermittent condensation occur
cause of the local climate or as a result of design princi- during cold nights when the sheathing temperature occa-
pally through the use of rigid insulation installed above the sionally dips below 45 degrees F.The average monthly
roof deck or air-impermeable spray foam insulation in- conditions more accurately reflect moisture content in
stalled under the roof deck in direct contact with it. wood-based assemblies.
Where rigid insulation is installed above the roof deck,or Asphalt roofing shingles require special attention when in-
air-impermeable spray foam insulation is installed under stalled on unvented roof assemblies in hot-humid,mixed-
the roof deck condensing surface temperatures are said to humid and marine climates due to inward vapor drive from
be controlled. incident solar radiation.A I perm or lower vapor retarder
The demarcation is specified as a distinction between rn- (Class 71)as tested by the wet-cup procedure should be in-
gions where the monthly average temperature remains stalled under the asphalt roofing shingles to control this in-
above 45 degrees F throughout the year and where it drops Ward drive.
below 45 degrees F during the year.An additional criteria Wood shingles or shakes,require a minimum%cinch
is also necessary-that of keeping interior relative humidi- vented airspace that separates the shingles/shakes and the
ties below 45 percent. roofing felt placed over the roof sheathing for similar rea-
sons.
These criteria were selected for two reasons.First,by keep-
ing the roof deck above 45 degrees F,condensation can be The demarcation between regions that require the control
minimized or eliminated.Condensation will not occur un- of condensing surface temperatures and regions that do not
less the dewpoint temperature of the interior air exceeds 45 can be obtained by using the hygro-thermal zones defied.
degrees F and this air contacts the roof deck.This interior tions in this builder's guide.Both hot-humid and hot-dry
dewpoint temperature is approximately equal to an interior climate zones meet the 45°F roof deck criteria.However,
conditioned space temperature of 70 degrees F at an inle- the high interior humidities found in buildings located in
nor relative humidity of 45 percent.These are interior hot-humid zones during the winter months do not always
moisture conditions that can easily be avoided with air meet the 45%interior relative humidity criteria.Therefore,
change/ventilation or the avoidance of over humidification the only zone that meets hoth of these requirements is the
during the coldest month of the year in the climate zones hot-dry hygro-thermal region.Only hot-cry climates do not
specified. require the control of condensing surface temperatures.All
Second,a monthly average temperature was selected,
other regions require some form of control,
rather than a design heating temperature,as it is more rep- Control of condensing surface temperatures typically in-
resentative of building enclosure performance.Short term, volves the installation of insulating sheathing above the
intermittent"spikes"in parameters/environmental loads are roof deck.In residential wood frame construction this in-
of interest to structural engineers and in the sizing of equip- volves installing rigid insulation between the roof shingles
ment,but not typically relevant to moisture induced date- and the roof plywood or OSB(Figure 2).The installation
rioration.Wood-based roof sheathing typical to residential of the rigid insulation elevates the temperature of the roof
deck to minimize condensation.
smngioz In cold and very cold climates selecting a roof deck con-
Rox€ng pyarp perm carerdensing surface temperature criteria of45°Fisvery causer-
vapor r Wasted», e N
Procedure re rut' omcnnsteal valve.This temperature rature criteria can be reduced to 405F
R-o bay rinstalled h
, (which corresponds to interior average conditions of 70°F,
wire stays or twine ;
R3 yd t edrw and horizontal • -Amy% 35%RH)where high interior moisture loads due to spas,
, ma out from root sheathing} �. �„inv. indoor swimming pools and excessive humidification are
sheathing OMNM 111:411:44.t.:,
� PPP not present.
R tsheathing � a A
5aai at - /',� •� r Surface is R t a rano Figure 3 and Figure 4 illustrate the differences between the
Rigid insulation g/ �► i t f Sheatthlr two fundamental systems.Figure 3 shows the potential for
a nee a nd mel l � condensation of an unvented roof assembly in Phoenix,
trusses and main = ---
name( ..—wtaaed batt mewaz AZ.Phoenix,AZ is located in a hot-dry climate zone.This
amminom,jd)g- I d . Gypsum exam with vapor son- roof assembly has no insulating sheathing installed above
Rigid insulation(tapee, ► wmiesbm(Mos)paint the roof deck.
shiplapped or ssaiadjoints)
Figure 4 shows the potential for condensation of an un-
Figuro 2 vented roof assembly in Dallas,TX.Dallas,TX is located
IffIA( to WM USW Mau Talus in a mixed-humid climate zone.Note that this roof assem-
•Rgid insulation installed above roof deCs Sly has rigid insulation installed above the roof deck in or-
•Ratio of IR-value between rigid insulation and batt insulation is der to control the condensation potential.The thermal resis-
climate-dependent tante of the rigid insulation(thickness)necessary to control
02004 Building Science Corporation 3
condensation depends on the severity of the climate.The Figure 7 shows a roof design that is not as dependent on
colder the climate,the greater the resistance of the rigid in- controlling interior moisture levels as the other roof de-
sulation required.Note that the thermal resistance of the signs presented.The absence of cavity insulation yields the
rigid insulation is based on the ratio of the thermal resis- highest condensing surface temperature of any of the de-
tance of the insulation above the roof deck as compared to signs presented.In this particular design,the condensing
the thermal resistance of the insulation below the roof surface is the air barrier membrane installed over the wood
deck.The key is to elevate the temperature of the condens- decking.With this design interior relative humidities
ing surface to 45 degrees F or higher during the coldest should be kept below 60 percent in order to control surface
months of the year. mold.In cold and very cold climate zones where there is
likely snow accumulation on roof surfaces,there is also the
Figure 5 shows the use of rigid insulation in a cathedral
ceiling assembly in Washington,DC.A calculation proce- likelihood of ice-damming.In order to control ice-dam-
ming,heat flow form the interior to the roof cladding must
dure is presented that determines the temperature of thebe
condensing surface.This calculation procedure is similar to minimized. In cold climate zones the minimum total R-
the one used in Chapter 4 to determine the sheathing tem- 4slue for the entire at ezon roof assembly should be R-
vpemmre in wall assemblies. 40.In very cold climate zones this minimum R-value
should be increased to R-50.
Figure 6 plots the temperature of the condensing surface.
The graph shows that condensation within the roof assem- In extreme snow regions it is typical to add a vented air
bly will not occur if interior conditions are maintained at space between the roof cladding(shingles)and the rigid in-
45 percent relative humidity or less at 70 degrees F during sulation in Figure 7 to flush heat away trapped due to the
the coldest month of the year. insulating value of the snow(the snow becomes an insulat-
Roofing tile Shingles
s Roofing paper(I perm or lower
Roofing paper /" '
vapor�Mutl betested by thin SOnle e t
..„,.-
Batt n511 abort dst Iletl With /''''`,, R 19n p required
installed with /
wre sraYS or twine / �',''`,a`,
R-5 goy insulation(vertical d htal
Roel sheathing ��t itt% �` Joints n e r9 over o an' gl i 1�"���
-a i I T ��' �
-at Roof sheathing '
I11� r-
talk Sealant i e First
urace heie uq
s_r::.
Rigid neulafion Ir L�p` s1�nM1Wlis neM1eat�M1rn.
SNcro '.. \ notched around roof I a
t �G UMa edbail insulation trusses and sealed a/ WA a
Reid insulation(taped, f �� Gypsum beard with vapor Vinyl or I =vl Unlaced ban insulation
shiplapped or sealedimMs) S• smipermeable(latex)paint aluminum siding �� Gypsum board wan vapersemi-
Rigid
mr
Rieidlnswalion(taped, l ► permeable(latex)paint
sniplpped or sealed)runts)
la° 100
ao 90 Mea monwy
woortemperature
m
00 1 rp
Flrmicondensing suriace
_temperature or
r
o
o
fsheaNiig)itR-5nwq70
Mean monthly outdoor
Sa
mTereNeDew
t LL a150%aH..IPF
S A SaIrI
iap
el 71,F,
point temperature E 30 1
PE sea RH paw peim rempearlrr. `_
40%at R.H..70.F
2020
In10
00
APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY
Monty Month
Figure 3 Figure 4
Poteallel for Caelonsatlon In Phoenix,Arizona wOh Unvamd Root Potential for Condensation la Dallas,boas Mk Unmated Roof and
•1,750 heating degree days Sibling Sheathlnu
•Winter design temperature 34°F •There is no potential for condensation on the underside of the roof
•Summer design temperature 107°F dry bulb;71°F wet bulb sheathing until moisture levels exceed 40%RH at 70°F
•There is no potential for condensation on the underside of the roof •Rigid insulation is recommended in this roof assembly to raise the
sheathing until interior moisture levels exceed 50%RH at 70°F condensation potential above 50%RH at 70°F
Y 2004 Building Science Corporation 4
ing"blanket").In essence creating a vented-unvented hy-
brid roof assembly.
Note that in these types of unvented roof assemblies(ex-
cept Figure 7),interior vapor barriers(Class I vapor retard-
ers)are not recommended as these assemblies are expected
to be able to"dry"towards the interior.
Instead of installing rigid insulation above the roof deck to
control condensing surface temperature.air-impermeable
spray foam insulation can be installed in direct contact to
the underside of the roof deck to accomplish the same
thing.
Figure 8 shows a roof design where air-impermeable spray
foam insulation is installed in direct contact to the under-
side of the structural roof deck. Shingles
Roofing paw n pail Of lower vapernmrder as— \
In Climate Zone 6 and Climate Zone 7 the air-impermeable ''54°t'^°HvbomTM° 1Y8`$"'ae°memn°61.mws+
insulation,including any covering adhered continuously to 54°567'9 m w
the bottom side should have a vapor ermeance of Ipeon A's aa' m row
(vertical and no new
P Pmate a n nrgf
or less(i.e.have the characteristics of a Class II vapor re Plywood or 055 nail base for far shingles .A
slarder or lower).This can be done by applying vapor bar- r grownga soiree
rests
iA
tier paint over the interior surface of the low density spray Root she•mno- �
foam or by installing a material layer that has a vapor per- 2x10leer— condonsng sun ace
meance of I perm or less. _,
A hih densityspray foam insulation due to its im rine-
-Gypsum
g P Y PC Gypsum board ih vaptrr
ability properties can be installed directly under roof decks
in Climate Zone 6 and Climate Zone 7 without any addi- U"
48 MIMS hit Ann*
tional provision for vapor diffusion resistance. •Two ld erS of 8-e'5/inch rigid insulation yielding a total combined
thickness of 2.5 inches
In Figure 9 extruded polystyrene of thickness l-inch is in- •Layers of rigid insulation have staggered joints lo facilitate airtightness',
stalled to provide a Class 11 vapor retarder on the bottom two layers aepreferablelo one layer Cuero Release in airflow resistalee
side of the low density air-impermeable spray foam insula-
tion.This allows the assembly to be constructed in Climate Inside Monthly Average Temperature of
Zone 6 and Climate Zones 7.Without the extruded polysty- Temp. Outdoor Temp. AT Condensing Surface
rene layer(or without a coating of vapor barrier paint)the —
useoflowdensityair-impermeable spray foam insulation Oct 70 55 15 60
is limited to Climate Zone 3 or lower. Nov 70 45 25 54
Gypsum board is used to provide a thermal barrier with Dec 70 36 34 48
foam insulations to meet code requirements when an attic Jan 70 31 39 45
space is occupiable. Feb 70 34 36 47
Mar 70 43 27 52
Apr 70 49 21 56
Ratio of thermal resistance above condensing surface to
total thermal resistance:
16=46=6348
Temperature et Condensing Surface a(AT x 0.3481 a 0utdoorTamperature
Figure 5
Conduslin Solace lbmperalures In mailmen,U.C.
•The greater the thermal resistance in the cavity,the Iowa the
temperature of the condensing surface
•The greater the thermal resistance of the rigid insulation,the
higher the temperature of the condensing surface
•In designs with no cavity insulation,only rigid insulation,yield
the highest(warmest)condensing surface temperatures
•In hMannnb,mixed-humig and marine climatesal perm or Power
vapor retarder as tested by the wet-cup procedure should he Installed
under the asphalt roofing shingles
02004 Baffin Selene.CmperatiOn 6
cow densly spray loam insulation
S \
ndingseammeta4Wt
fl - Papaz Ccscr are.WNad,ared Z.
Mrentranewaterpeeehng¢a.toe A Watel Sl la : —Metal cap
1 %PS9dnsul l ///1B'widemembrane stip under
Irl vapor c • / parapet I olda
ge dawn Over exterior
F Aon d' / OSB
`Coping adDu
OSB sheatkng / OSB
RgdtamawmParmW. / li. i RMbee;Wellt)
membrane
Fiber Lament scupper l
abrrescrct Gypsum
TWO layers osB
aMl / .U. repined t RYh density spray trl8 �
pt ••::7 gro+aing tarp Illation 1�e N
saNnl to pa betrnd PoIY Miffed(PM) Gypsumboard with semi. mji��
drtp ad n 11llb nee traditional cement.Wen pe btBtoK(paint B
m601111°0.6111
ae
M t dl g g v m M lath Sealant. db site ergasket at ''
[UnYltionee spxe r� MpW e
ks " Budding paper band break 4 I — Mng Or Segal
(f Al
mw�xM 'Pray town ova Place ._Cacty rxpiator,
Ftgure 9 Figure 11
Mr amanamtable Spray Foam Imola* Satt®bd Flit Int Asaamlly
•Spray foam protected with thermal barrier in occupied attic space •There is no potential for condensation on the undersideof the root
•Interior vapor retarder(Class II)required with low density spray sheathing until interior moisture levels exceed 50%RH at 70'F
loam in Climate Zones 6 and 7 •High density spray foam insulation does not require an interior
vapor retarder in any climate
Gypsum board(thermal Darner)required PC tai-rating
Asphell shingle tool /
Pooling paper \ .
Root sMaNb3 /.%'':
�t
IS' k Forane WC
�r underparapet folded Air hazier
High density spray foam insulation / Metal cap xtdo[ embrene
4,;..._
h„s rigid insulation (membrane
.CSW 3w'el&e co-ka ool4
/.r •• 0.513 sheathing y I Rigidi. bb frig cl M ;houtu
Yrf PPe m b ps bale ng
I pwrE all
Drip edge lucked - --
Mer membrane ohne ... ti u 7 t ! I I ( I " [ S f t (r
yW Iaho
.. _. Gsn It
fl ' '
ar li
OccupiablespaceSealant ...g...-..............-
c,,.:
Open head pint Polymer d1ed(PM( [[[aces _Gypsum boartlINs i £
(every other trek) tractional" m t permeable gawp)gym Ea
Blink veneer Kigh density Spray Foam Metal lath Sealant adhesive Cr Bask t
Gypsum boaN . Ca
Ones
nstea§an brk edrmM. . !jCavity ace i over drainage � l mNeOon
Plane —..
IpSula(n9 sheam ig BI
Dralnugd Plane wo
Stcictral sheathing "k ' Figure 12
Flat R —Comiessbm%cutin.Tommamtere
Figure 19 Controlled
Mr Impermeable%pray FOam Insulation •The thickness of the rigid insulation at both the roof deck and roof
•Spray foam protected with thermal barrier In occupied attic space perimeter is determined by a calculation procedure similar to
•High density foam insuiaton partially fills roar ratter cavity and Figure
wall cavity •mhe colder the climate the thicker the rigid insulation required
•No interior vapor retarder required In any climate zone with high •The higher the interior moisture level the thicker the rigid
density spray foam insulation insulation required
02004 Building Science Corporation 5
o
scw
M mg paer 0ceuamasrvapwre*snee es
MIMI y Ma ws4wp pagMore required in some d ineteM
FSMI cavity Insulation ss
RIS MOM inwl tb (verfisai and horizOrMIshingles
Idea offset hymn roof nM1 thng)
Plywoodm0SO stSI wav for sing; Roofing paper
screwed alx yh MO.msulaims
falsbers �� R-40rigidtnsNaton(6T,ches-
ROM sheatn g of RL9lnch rigidinsulation)in
2x10 rafter COMnsing surlac two or three layers wnh horizontal
and vertical joint staggered /
GypSAmtoard 4th vapor Nail base for atlingles(plywood or 0.48)
peOneave msext psm screwed through ngat mseaton 4....4e
to
to weeddecking Of timber ratters
Air barrier membranea .,-
(sheet polyethylene,
1.91 RnyenUl Reel Assembly membrane rooting in
very cold and cold
•Two layers of R-6Stireh rigid insulator,yiidtog a total combined cemates,houeewraps. y"�
thickness of 25 inches buadiig paper w all se ,—Woad dearng
•Layers of rigid insulation have staggered Joints to facilitate air tightness', other aamatne)
two layers are preferable to one layer due to increase in air flow resistance Timber rafter or exposed joist
Figure 7
,o° _ Cemlal amm/R Reat Assembly
w &value increased to R-50 in very cold climate zones to control
ice-damming
eOIJpIi!!ruu.flsagoWinn.
Optimum roof assemblydesign to enclosepool areas and spas
tP iB fo d'msmation.a.w cacao • p 9 p
]9 kw!Yan wlm JOF muscle
az suis
O S
11111
Gso um
,• wan monthly ouafoav�,10211 All
■ tdmPeratare—_ s dr
. • OS
10 11!•••• ■ ■■ Low density spray foam insulation \
APR MAV AVN AUGa SEP 001 NOV DEL JAN NES MAR AP MAy MOM sn pl 5 \ -
Month RooMS OM`ll a ua 4
as ted by th wpprocedurelflaredrn •
Figure 6
some m tl cn„
Pelemlel for CnHnsatlen In Washlnalen,R.C.web mIN Mullen Raaf sheathing- i+'.;t`^ '{'`_„.
{
0W7eetel Reef to forcondensation until interior moisture Rased fNM ~� Mr
•
here is no
levels exceed 4potential
F during)he cal intest rior of the fardaaadam
year if R-16 rigid insulation is installed over a rafter cavity Fmr wmenf acre tNonaawplato
insulation to 6-30 Roan nmdeynta j j i* r M9Le
•Inhot-humid,mixed-humid and marine climates a l perm or lower sealed to dnpeNO frs'�S"'
vapor aardetas tested by thews-cup procedure should be irstand �
t —
under the assphaltroofing shfngles • a b&dwdake+pze
• cupieespaweomnoeP,I
nwga
Mm
space)
Figure B
MP Intrinall7 Ira Ram i
• Spray foam protected with thermal barrier in occupied attic space
•In hot-humid,mixed-humid and marine climates a 1 perm or
lower vapor retarder as tested by the wet-cup procedure should be
installed under the asphalt roofing shingles
e1/25/2006 12:53 1413562221e WALNUT HILL PAGE 01
NinSNMI Milan umi N
eavw.Masawwas•1ptilrat-3mo pot Minks
111114.4.1“.IM,alec
•' Jutuary 25,2006
Building Inspector:
Subject: New Building Product. P2000 Insulation and Wind& Water Barrier.
Walnut Hill Metal Roofing Supply&Distributor has been given thy dlsttibutanldp fb tbls
new product: P2000 Ivulatlon.
M manufacs ser,Perk*Steel Frame Building of St. Joseph,MO. has recommended that a
Dopy of the specifications and a sample be sant to all binding inspectors. This will allow you to
see and eveJuate the product as to building code,fire,smoke,awiratmamal ,ect.
We believe P2000 Insulation is an excellent product that is far superior to fiber glass
insulation and Tyvek wind and water barrier. P2000 Insulaticm is also cart saving for the
contractor in tabor and rime as well ar for the homeowner in hest and ekeuic costs.
For any questions,Please call a go online to W W W.P2Insulationoom. Thank you. '
Sincaely,
•
Erwin and Scott Brown
Insolation Systems
•
DATA BOOK
Reflective Rigid Foam Insulation
(Self-Taping PRO-LOC.System)
2,PRODUCT INFORMATION SHEET
• PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
• PRODUCT DIMENSIONS
• PRODUCT STYLES Page 2
3.PREMIER:- 1323-3-, WHITEIEPS1R}IL
-Noel x S sheets laminated on one side with foil/scrim/polyethylene and on the
other side with foil-backed white polypropylene with scrim. Pages 3,4
4.BASF
• Building Code&Specification Compliance Page 5,6
5.BUILDING CODE PROVISIONS
• Code compliance and Hazard Rating information Page 7
• ASTM E841U BC 431 FLAME SPREAD and SMOKE DEVELOPED Page 7
6.TAPE:
• Vrscor,Inc Page 8
• Tape Products Company Page 9
• Song Adhesives,S. Page 10
I ASTMC 236 GUARDED HOT BOX
• Winter conditions Page 1I
• Summer conditions Page 12
8.TESTIMONIAL--50%Savings or 50%more effeceive,.
Acid Bath TeS1 Results Page 13
•
Cebu Poultry Breeding Farms Page 14
• INSULEOAM PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS Page IS
Nur
:ti
PRODUCT INFORMATION SHEET
3.:'n�R� +v�+.r_:,+AG�`.a �. .,, x'0.'S�SSr Aft:-.:.ttP:--runs Bk., b^ �. •••. ':'�
Reflective Rigid Foam Board Insulation
(w/The Self-Tape Skirt ProLoc-System)
P rs/' ) rip ' n Each sheet is comprised of the following:
✓ Expanded Polystyrene Foam Board
✓ Foil scrim polyethylene Facing (2 facings) or
✓ Foil-backed White Polypropylene Facing
✓ Laminated and glued on both sides
• I"Self-taping Skirt ProLoc-System
*W
Product Dimensions Each sheet can be order in the following dimensions:
STANDARD r 4'x 8' 4'x 9' 4'x 10' -1"-2"-3"
**Custom orders are also available in the following:
Tx 4' 4'x 11' 4'x 12' 4'x 14' 4'x 16' 4'x IS'
Product Styles: i P2000 is available in the following styles:
P EQDI!`11 lflrlpl< .. -;nun A$11 PREMIER
PRODUCT NAME THICKNESS DIMENSIONS FACING
• BRONZE 2K INCH 4'X
GOLD 2K 5/8 INCH 4' X 8' BOARDS Foil/EPS/Foil or
W hite/EPS/Foil
• SUPER 2K 1",2",3" INCH 4' X 8' BOARDS Foil/EPS/Foil or
White/EPS/Foil
2
4
P2000 OLYMPIC SERIES - DELUXE
,,$�az mt Ai .� <,- ,.« '11,r i res 7 a r z ° 3.° r/�
Product: Two-sided Reflective 99% pure Aluminum foil, reinforced
scrim with 1-2-3 inch EPS Rigid board.
"FOIL - EPS - FOIL"
5n5
FACING COMPOSITION DESCRIPTION VALUE(ENGLISH) VALUES(METRIC)
FOIL ALUMINUM(SILVER) 0.0003 INCH 7.6 MICRONS
REINFORCING 131-DIRECTION FIBER 1 8 INCH (MD) 7/100 MM(MD)
ADHESIVE FLAME RESISTANCE
FILM POLYETHYLENE 0.0015 INCH 38 MICRONS
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES TEST METHOD VALUES(ENGLISH) VALUES(METRIC)
BASIS WEIGHT SCALE 13.7LBS/1000Fr 66.SGM/M14
PERMEANCE ASTM E96 002 PERM 1.15 NG/N'
TENSILETEN
BURSTING
ASTM�36 38 LLBS/WCH 2.5 KG/Mhe
2.5 (MD)
ACCELERATED AGE 30DAYS
12 NO CORROSION NO CORROSIONINA
95% 01790 F(49°C) NO DELAMINATIONXIBLE NO FLEXIBLE
TION
LOW TEMP RESIST. ASTM (-40°C)10°0 REMAINSO LE REMAINSFIAN
-40°F @RDELAMINATION NOADELAMINATIONSFEXIBL
HIGH TEMP RESIST. 4 HOURS° REMAINSO FLEXIBLE REMAINS DELAMINATION 240°F UIS°C) NO DELAMINATION NO DELAMINATION
WATER (IMMERSION) 24 HOURS(�73°F(23°C) 0NO0 DELAMINATION NO DELAMINATION
EMISSIVITY(FOIL) ASTM E408 003 003
PHYSICAL AESTHETICS THICKNESS COLOR FORM J
FOIL 00003 INCH SILVER LAMINATED FOIL
EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE I INCH WHITE FLEX FOAM BOARDS
FOIL 0.0003 INC SILVER LAMINATED FOIL
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
FOR EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE (FPS)
PRODUCT INFORMATION INGREDIENTS PHYSICALMDATA FIRE AND EXPLOSION
PRODUCT GRADES HAZARD.ENTANE COMPONENT FORM FLASH POINT
TYPE l LI,D AND DC PENTANE RIGID CELLULAR 610°MIN.
CHEMICALPOLYSTFAMILYNEWEIGHT LHAN2%TpGE BLOCKS,BOARDS METHOD 192D9
POLYSTYRENE LESSTHAN2% COLOR ASTGUSH
THERMOPLASTIC NON-HAZARD COMP. WHITE EXTINGUISC MEDIA
POLYMER FIGHT RENE ODOR Water Fog,Foam
on
an
CAS03-53-iER k: WEIGHT HYDO CART Dioxide,aFoam and Dry
90098%min HYDROOINTON Chemical
CAS NAME: BOILINGN/ POINT SPECIALIGTIFIRE
BENZENE,ETHENYL NIA INSTRUCTIONS BOMOPOLYMERNG
MELTING°TPOINT20° INSTRUCTIONS
FORMULA IIS°T0220° Use uRaomained
(C8 H8)x SOLUBILITY breathing apparatus
INSOLUBLE IN respirator.
WATER AUTOIGNm0N TEMP.
850°F MIN.
3
P2000 OLYMPIC SERIES - PREMIER
Product: One side White/foil backed and One side foil Reflective 99%
pure Aluminum foil, reinforced scrim with 1-2-3 inch EPS
Rigid board.
ilarainalMili
Mill
FACING COMPOSITION DESCRIPTION VALUE(ENGLISH) VALUES(METRIC)
POLYPROPOLYLEN FOIL ALUMINUM(SILVER) 0.0003 INCH 7.6 MICRONS
REINFORCING BI-DIRECTION FIBER ILS INCH (MIT) 71100 AIM(MND)
ADHESIVE FLAME RESISTANCE
FILM POLYETHYLENE 0.0015 INCH 38.1 MICRONS
PHYSICS! PROPER'NES TEST METHOD VALUES(ENGLISH) VALUES(METElc)
BASIS WEIGHT SCALE 11.9 LBS I I000FT' 57.9 GM/M'
PERMS/INCE ASTM E96 0.02 PERM 1.15 NO/Ne
URS /NC STRENGTH ASTM D774 70 PSI 2.8 KO/CAP
TENSILE STRENGTH ASTm CI136 16 LBS/INCH 3.2 KN/M(MD)
ACCELERATED AGE 30 DAYS @ NO CORROSION NO CORROSION
95%RH,1200 F(49°C) NO DEI.AMINAHON NO DELAMINATION
LOW TEMP.RESIST. AST(D 1790 REMAINS FLEXIBLE REMAINS FLEXIBLE
-10°F (AVE) NO DELAMINATION NO DELAMINATION
FHGH TEMP.RESIST. 4 HOURS @ REMAINS FLEXIBLE REMAINS FLEXIBLE
240°F(116°C) NO DELAMINATION NO DE]AMRNATION
WATER IMMERSION 24 HOURS@73°1(23°C) NO DELAMINATION NO DELAMINATION
NW..- EMISSIVITY(FOIL) ASTM E4W 003 0.03
PHYSICAL AESTHETICS THICKNESS COLOR FORM
WHITE POLY/FOIL 0.0003 INCH WHIIF,ISILVER LAMINATED FOIL
EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE 1 INCH WHITE FLEX FOAM BOARDS
FOIL 0.0001 INC SILVER LAMINATED FOIL
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
FOR EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE (EPS'
PRODUCT INFORMATION INGREDIENTS PHYSICAL DATA FIRE AND EXPLOSION
PRODUCT GRADES HAZARD.COMPONENT FORM FLASH POINT
TYPE L VI,I AND IX PENTANE RIGID CELLULAR 610°WE.
CHEMICAL FAMILY WEIGHT PERCENTAGE BLOCKS,BOARDS METHOD USED
POLYSTYRENE LESS THAN 2% COLOR ASTM D 1929
THERMOPLASTIC NON-HAZARD COMP. WHITE EXTINGUISH MEDIA
POLYMER POLYSTYRENE ODOR Won Fog,Cm/ma
CAS REGISTER/I: WEIGHT PERCENTAGE VERY SLIGHT Dioxide,Foam and Dry
9003-53.6 98%min HYDROCARBON Chemical
CAS NAME BOILING POINT SPECIAL FIRE
BENZENE,ETHENYL- N/A FIGHTING
HOMOPOLYMER MELTING POINT iNSLRUCTIONS
FORMULA 175°TO 220° Use self-contained
(CS H8)4 SOLUBILITY breathing apparatus
INSOLUBLE IN tapir-atop
WATER AUTOIGOMITON TEMP.
850°F MIN.
NY/
4
•
Technical Bulletin E-8
Revised January 1993 Building Code &
Specification
Compliance
Introduction:
EPS insulation manufactured from BF & BFL grades of Styropor
expandable polystyrene has been independent-laboratory-tested to show
compliance with Model Building Code, Factory Mutual, Federal, and ASTM
material requirements
Further, EPS insulation manufactured from styropor has been tested to
establish compliance with perscriptive applications permitted by code and
insurance authorities.
Test results, sources, and code/insurance references are summarized below.
Section I Materials Requirements ---ASTM C578
BASF Styropor (EPS)
RIS Gd M " Vfa p,�
Ti1:01126 P4WS 11-95%Mat HAt
O09011PS% OffilI.h. 99F IS T�011013
Vbm VaporVaporTaIra-Imam Cffi Twe 10%05.04M 171 WTein1122355
mars--fl al TW1361M Op1N 9M%4
Tani Rffim i] 618 THp1-&O1 TW0111B Drtgieciaexca
BASFPolymers
5
Section 11 Minimum 600F flash ignition Section III
Material requirements- and 800F self-ignition System requirements--
Model Building Code: ratures
3.Compliance tests-Us. Building Codes
A. Surface Burning Testing Report#A-44318 in A.Roof Insulation Without
Characteristics accordance with ASTM D1929 Flame spread/smoke
1.Code references Hash ignition temperature 610F development limitaions and
BOCA Basic Building Code Self ignition temperature 850F without 14 index thermal bather
ASTM E-84 seperation:
IC13O Uniform Building Code BOCA Basic Building Code
USC Standard 42-1 must comply with FM 4450
(calorimeter test)or UL 1256(30
SBCC Standard Building Code minute tunnel test)
ASTM E-84 ICBG Uniform Building Code
2.Allowable code values must meet the requirements of
Flame spread 75 maximum " UBC standard#17-4 FM 4450
(genal application) or UL 1256
Flame spread 25 Max SBCC Standard Building Code
(special applications) must comply with FM 4450 or
Smoke Development-450 Max.
UL 1256
D. Crawl spaces
B.BTU content,Fuel potential L Sponsor—BASF Corp.
1.Code references Polymer Division
IC130 Uniform Building Code Laboratory-SWRI#01-7788-
UEC Standard 17-i NFPA#259 2045
SBCC Standard Building Code Test procedure--Full scale
NFPA#259 comparative tests of exposed,
IS 2.Allowable code values kraft faced r-11 glass fiber
ICBG Uniform Building Code insulation vs.3"{ru )EPS
SBCC Standard Building Code insulation in simulated crawl
a)Backerboard-2,000 BTU per space configuration
sqft max.At 12"thickness Test results time of ignition of
b)Exterior walls requiring plywood subfloor above crawl
incombustible insulation 6,000 space:
BTU per sqft max. ---with glass fiber insulation-2
minutes 46 seconds
3.Compliance tests-UL inc. —with EPS insulation 17
Test#R5817183 NIC4864 minutes 2 seconds.
conducted in accordance with
NFPA#259(UBC Standard 17- Significance model codes call
2) for use of ignition bather over
EPS insulation in crawl spaces.
Test proves exposed EPS in
C.Ignition temperature crawl spaces is less hazardous
1. Code references: than conventional,exposed
BOCA Basic Building Code glass fiber insulation
ASTM 01929 appllcatioa...
1030 Uniform Building Code-
UBC Standard#52-3(ASTM
D1929) BASF
SBCC Standard Building Code Polymers
without test reference
`✓ss 2.Allowable code values
ICBG Uniform Building Code
6
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PRODUCT INFORMATION SHEET
Tape Products Company, IDEAL TAPE CO.
WHITE METALIZED POLYPROPYLENE TAPE :
WMP 421- WHITE{xvAC)
PRODUCTDL.SCR'IPTIOV c4 WHITE ME TALJZED POLYPROPYLENE SCRIM
HAS A KRAFT BACKING AND RUBBER BASED ADHESIVE WITH RELEASE LINER
THIS TAPE IS USED TO SEAM AM)REPAIR METAL BUILDING INSULATION
FACING UTILIZING WHITE METALIZED POLYPROPYLENE.
AGGRESSIVE ADHESION: ASSURES EXCEL LENT BOND AND LONG
LASTING PERFORMANCE
EASILY REMOVABLE LINER: ALLOWS FOR QUICK AND EASY
APPLICATION
EXCELLENT LIGHT REFLECTIVITY: MAXIAHZESINSULA77ONPERFORMANCE
TM DIRECTIONAL SCRIM PATTERN: GIVES STRENGTH AND DURABILITY TO THE
TAPE.
PHI SIC.IL. PROPERTIES
ADHESION TO STEEL 85 OZ/IN WIDTH
ADHESIVE RUBBER
BACKING WHITE METALIZED
SCRIM, KRAFT
ELONGATION 11%
TEMPERATURE RANGE -20°F - 150°F
TENSILE 55LBS./IN WIDTH
P:I CK:4GLVG
LENGTH 150 FEET
WIDTH 3 INCHES
Tape pe ROLLS PER CASE 16
`�►+' Tape Products Company, 11630 DEERFIELD ROAD,CINCINNATI,01E0 45242
(513)489-8840 OR TOLL FREE 1-800-543-4930
8
PRODUCT INFORMATION SHEETNes
-,
VISCOR, INC
SURESTIK DOUBLE COATED TAPE
. . rr
SS2200 -SILVER
PRODUCT DESC IPIIOX SS2200 IS A DOUBLE COATED TAPE UTILIZING
.005 MIL POLYESTER THIS TAPE FEATURES GOO PLASTICIZER AND WATER
RESISTANCE. SERVICE RANGE TEMPERATURE OF -40°F TO 170°F WITH HIGH
TACK AND MODERATE SHEAR CHARACTERISTICS. SS2200 IS AN EXCELLENT
TAPE FOR GASKETING, INSULATION AND VARIOUS MOUNTING APPLICATIONS.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
THICKNESS MILS STANDARD ROIL SiZF
UNWIND ADHESIVE 1.5 54" X 750"
POLYESTER CARRIER 0.5 60" X 750"
LINER ADHESIVE 1.5
60#KRAFT RELEASE LINER 3.5
TOTAL CALIPER 7.0
TYPICAL t:-IL UES UNWIND SIDF LINER SIDF
180°PEEL ADHESION, OZ/IN 68 68
LOOP TACK, OZ/IN 60.8 60.8
SHEAR ADHESION', HRS 5.3 5.3
SHEAR ADHESION', HRS 57.4 57.4
VIS"OR, INC 1266 PROFIT DALLAS TX 75247 214-630-7211 800-275-1320 `4/0
9
J�tt6ll� 1 1Mialect, ise&
"Stick with us"
BSA 637
PRODUCT: BSA 637
TYPE: HOT MELT PRESSURE SENSITIVE
SOLIDS: 100 %
SOFTENING POINT: 187 Degrees Fahrenheit (Approx.)
VISCOSITY: 4000 CPS Q 350 Degrees Fahrenheit(Approx.)
SPECIFIC GRAVITY: .97+-.01
COLOR LIGHT AMBER
USE TEMPERATURE: 300-350 Degrees Fahrenheit
APPLICATION: Extrude, roll or spray * sprays very well
SOME SUGGESTED USES: EPS Foam to Corrugated and itself
Poly Film to itself and other surfaces
Typar to Typar,Kraft to Poly Foam
Bonds to Typar to paper to Polypropylene Foam have withstood 100 hours in W eatherometer-
ASTM G-23.
*S*****************************,**************,*S*** *********45*************
NOTE: The data presented is based upon tests believed to be reliable:however, manufacturer does not
guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Manufacturer will assume no responsibility for the results obtained
or for incidental or consequential damages arising front the use of this data. Customer is responsible for
determining suitability of this product for his needs
Components contained in this product conform to FDA regulation 21CFR175.105 as it concerns indirect
contact to food.
L
10
Center For Applied
Engineering,Inc. Page 3 of 3
sir Matenals Testing Services •
Client: Perka 2000 Insulation, Inc.
Table 1: Thermal Performance of Perka 2000 Reflect-Sulation Roof System
ASTM C 236 - "Guarded Hot Box" Perka 2000 ReflectSulation
Average Test Results - Insulation System
(Wnter Conditions) (Heat Flow Up)
T� = 45.0 ±2°F
Hot Air Temperature °F 89.8
Hot Surface Temperature, °F 83.6
Cold Surface Temperature, °F 4.0
Cold Air Temperature, °F -2.0
Mean Temperature, °F 43.8
Average Power, Watts -- 112.16 ,0010
Hot Surface Coefficient, Btu/h ft2°F 1.72
Cold Surface Coefficient, Btu/h ft2°F 1.77
Thermal Conductance, Btu/h ft2°F 0.134
Thermal Resistance, h ft2°F/Btu 7.5
Stanley D. Gatland B I
Research Engineer
Materials Testing Services
�(�\'('M^^II11LL t((uf IS�III
This wort for No wanatin d the meet i maybe used 45 m:of rw nig°uNose LtsscuFIrg pocket acWar.o moon U! V V��J
dnh constierledaFGN+Lxvlaorlies:nmwvw.Iwrgvn or me name d Gamer For p'l'ied Eylnzermg.Inc slaM o Bused 11 0 LV'
P°°Iay or a°reluing.
Accredited by the Natonal Institute of Standards and Technology.National Voluntary Laboratory Accodiiaucn ACCLUSTICAL,FIRE,PHYSICAL AHO
Program for selected test methods for Acvsical Test Services and Thermal Insulation Materials. THERMAL IJEASUPE ME NTS LABORAI ORE S
CCenter For Applied
� Engineering,Inc Page 3 of 3
sa MorenaLs Testing Semces
`o
Client: Perka 2000 Insulation, Inc. MIS Job No.: 257436-B
Tahle 1: Thermal Performance of Perka 2000 Reflect-Sulation Roof System
ASTM C 236 - °Guarded Hot Box" Perka 2000 Reflect-Sulation 1
Average Test Results -Insulation System
(Summer Conditions) (Heat Flow Down)
Tom° = 85.0 ± 1°F
Hot Air Temperature °F 101.3
Hot Surface Temperature, °F 100.0
Cold Surface Temperature, °F 71.6
Cold Air Temperature, °F 70.4
Mean Temperature, °F 85.8
Average Power, Watts 24.43
Nue Hot Surface Coefficient, Btu/h R2°F 1.78
Cold Surface Coefficient, Btu/h ft2°F 1.93
Thermal Conductance, Btu/h ft2 aF 0.082
Thermal Resistance, h ft2°FfBtu 12.3
`e•
Stanley D. Galland II Ow 4,
Recearch Engineer
Materials Testing Services
12
This IFan a la MAB INomx,°n tl Pe QenLA flu UQ nY VN°r,la Jn Paws G tacos,nitduux Wlvre inn
Sul y+uillOd a iuno.M.l°.ew.TN. otm,ren,a Caner,a Wad prong.am hfl nm he died qw.i
I_pidlnly v advancing
Ai:coedited by Me HauwpI humid of Slanaaras and Technology.Nampa!Volomary Labs:mom kaedimum ACIX151 CA1 FRF.PHYS CAL Atte
Plegram ist selectedles[methods kir Aciossol Test Semites coo Thesmai hs)a°n Ku zs. LFERM4 SACASI.AEA'AIITS LAbOPitCH SCS
•
GUSTOfir
•
G l
Z9
ave Travers y Steve Stephens
55
13-61600 a+ I' O 313-3858929
1103 S.E Lakeview Or. Sebring, Florida 33870
October 12, 1997
Perka-2000 Reflect-Sulation
Mr. Jeffrey K Ludwig -
ABC FrameTech,Inc.
Sebring,Florida 33871-1215
Dear Mr. Ludwig:
As you know, I operate a tanning business which uses many corrosivechemicals that run the "ph"
scale from 1 through 15. Business is booming and we will start construction on a new facility
early next year. An important consideration for my new tannery is finding building materials that
can withstand continual exposure to corrosive chemical filmes.
At your urging:,I decided to put P-2000 Reflect-Subation to the test: To my way of thinking,
there would be a double bonus if your rigid insulation panel passed this test. Furst, Fd have an
insulated wall surface that resists chemicals,is easy to repair,and does not require a lot of Nvad
maintenance. Secondly,I could substitute lower costing IJ&for 5/8" sheet rock as a backing
material, eliminate the cost of standard insulation blankets entirely, and forget about expensive
elastomeric paints.
Two of the strongest chemicals we use are sulfuric acid and formic acid. For the P-2000 test, a
solution of each acid was prepared in a5-gallon bucket at the density we normally use for tanning
hides. Next, 6"x6" samples of the 5/8"P-2000 Reflect-Sulation with fol/white backing were put
directly into these acid solutions. The results were absolutely amazing:
After 3 weeks of daily stirring, turning, and dunking in this acid bath, there
was no damage to the rigid foam or laminate baddna of the P-2000 samples!!!
After seeing these results for myself I am convinced P-2000 Reflect-Sulation is a superior
product which is far more durable and versatile than other insulation products on the market.
Respectfully,
- David Travers, President
Sebring Custom Tanning
13
E 7/ • Coldham Architects, LLC Tel:413.5493616 Fax:6802
155 Pine St. Amherst, MA 01002 www.ColdhamArchitects.com
jj//YY
MEMO
To: Steve Ferrari ••
Kohl Construction
From: Thomas RC Hartman,AIA _
Cc: Mr.Tony Patillo
Building Inspector
Date: 22 Feb 2006 Project: 02-03 RHC
Subject: Unvented cathedral ceilings
Mr. Ferrari,
Please proceed with deleting the venting channels from the roof assembly of the
Common House at Rocky Hill Cohousing.
We will retain the poly vapor retarder on the interior of walls and ceilings as originally
contracted.
I have spoken to the Building Inspector and provided backup information in reference to
this alternate material and system, and have assured that an air barrier will be properly
installed and blower door tested.
Please do not hesitate to call with any questions.
comcere
as RC ' :.• -n ,AIA
Page 1 of I