Multiple ClimatesA research study was undertaken by RDH to quantify the thermal impact of exposed slab edges and balconies in mid- to high-rise residential buildings across climate zones in Canada. The impact of exposed slab edges and balconies on the effective wall R-values, indoor temperatures, and indoor thermal comfort was assessed. Space heating and cooling loads were also modeled in each climate zone for an archetypal multi-unit residential building to quantify the energy loss through exposed slab edges and balconies and to determine the space conditioning savings that could be achieved in typical scenarios when balcony and slab edge thermal break products are used.
This Report #1 of 4 specifically covers the impact of balcony and slab edge thermal break products on effective R-values and energy code compliance.
Other reports in the series:
- Report #2 – Impact of balcony and slab edge thermal break products on thermal comfort and condensation control.
- Report #3 – Impact of balcony and slab edge thermal break products on energy consumption and energy savings.
- Report #4 – Assessment of various design parameters that impact the thermal modeling of balconies and slab edges, as well as thermal break solutions.