Ratings for New Windows-Additions, New Homes

[Mark Pinguet]

Do new windows for residential additions and new homes have to meet BOTH the Energy Rating and U-Factor on the charts (3.1.1.2A and 3.1.1.11) to meet current building code?

If not (i.e. only need to meet one of the above), where is that written in the building code (exactly)?

Running into situations where the HVAC or designer is writing the U-Factor on the EEDS form and building inspectors are reading that and the stickers on the windows and saying they don't meet code (these are mid level Energy Star windows with very good ER numbers (well above current code), although the U-Factor numbers are slightly below code).

The new rules with regard to windows/doors as well as insulation requirements are somewhat confusing and in addition, many designers as well as building inspectors are not fully aware of the requirements which makes if somewhat problematic.

Mark

 

[mark handler]

Do new windows for residential additions and new homes have to meet BOTH the Energy Rating and U-Factor on the charts (3.1.1.2A and 3.1.1.11) to meet current building code?

If not (i.e. only need to meet one of the above), where is that written in the building code (exactly)?

Running into situations where the HVAC or designer is writing the U-Factor on the EEDS form and building inspectors are reading that and the stickers on the windows and saying they don't meet code (these are mid level Energy Star windows with very good ER numbers (well above current code), although the U-Factor numbers are slightly below code).

The new rules with regard to windows/doors as well as insulation requirements are somewhat confusing and in addition, many designers as well as building inspectors are not fully aware of the requirements which makes if somewhat problematic.

Mark

You are under the Ontario Canada Code?

 

[Mark Pinguet]

You are under the Ontario Canada Code?

Ontario Building Code. In Canada.

 

[mark handler]

According to Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy

• The range listed below is based on your location
• You must meet all three:
  • U-factor (W/m² - K): Range: 0.65 to 2.44
  • Solar Heat Gain (SHGC): Range: 0.06 to 0.68
  • Energy Rating: Range: 16 to 54

 

[tmurray]

Do new windows for residential additions and new homes have to meet BOTH the Energy Rating and U-Factor on the charts (3.1.1.2A and 3.1.1.11) to meet current building code?

If not (i.e. only need to meet one of the above), where is that written in the building code (exactly)?

Running into situations where the HVAC or designer is writing the U-Factor on the EEDS form and building inspectors are reading that and the stickers on the windows and saying they don't meet code (these are mid level Energy Star windows with very good ER numbers (well above current code), although the U-Factor numbers are slightly below code).

The new rules with regard to windows/doors as well as insulation requirements are somewhat confusing and in addition, many designers as well as building inspectors are not fully aware of the requirements which makes if somewhat problematic.

Mark

In the national version, it is explicitly stated that you only have to meet the USI or ER, not both. I'm not seeing similar verbiage in SB-12. I would assume that this is the intent though.

 

[tmurray]

According to Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy

• The range listed below is based on your location
• You must meet all three:
  • U-factor (W/m² - K): Range: 0.65 to 2.44
  • Solar Heat Gain (SHGC): Range: 0.06 to 0.68
  • Energy Rating: Range: 16 to 54

NRCan deals with energy efficiency programs that are above and beyond code (like net zero homes). NRC is the national code authority, but Ontario is Canada's California. Their code is based on the national one, but lets the do some wild and wonderful things.