Unlocking Carbon Savings with Plastic Insulation Materials April 12, 2024 PLASTIC INSULATION IS typically composed of a plastic polymer, such as polyurethanes or polystyrenes, a blowing agent, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), a surfactant, and other flame retardants or additives. The application of insulation in homes evolved from hay to fiberglass in the 1930s, followed by the shift to plastic insulation in the 1970s.1, 2 The […] Read More
The Future of Sustainable Building Restoration with Deep Energy Retrofits March 15, 2024 AS THE GLOBAL focus on sustainability and climate change intensifies, the United States is seeing a new trend in building restoration— deep energy retrofits. The largest contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the US, buildings account for approximately 40% of energy consumption and 75% of electricity use nationwide.1 Therefore, existing structures have been targeted […] Read More
Implications of Envelope Backstops in Recent Energy Codes March 15, 2024 ENERGY CONSUMPTION WITHIN the residential and commercial sector accounts for 40% of energy utilization in the United States.1 Among the various energy uses, space heating and cooling activities are responsible for more than 50% of this energy consumption.2 Canada also faces a similar concern, prompting regulatory authorities to explore alternative approaches. To mitigate energy consumption, […] Read More
Increasing Sustainability in the Low-Slope Roof Market through PVC (Vinyl) Membrane Recycling October 30, 2023 30 • IIBEC Interface November 2023 Increasing Sustainability in the Low-Slope Roof Market through PVC (Vinyl) Membrane Recycling Feature By Jennifer Oblock, Jay Thomas, Richard Krock, Buddhika Hapuwatte, and Nehika Mathur This paper was originally presented at the 2023 IIBEC International Convention and Trade Show. more than a million pounds is being converted into new […] Read More
