Multiple ClimatesThe Prefabricated Exterior Energy Retrofit (PEER) Project Guide is the culmination of a six-year research and testing project by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and CanmetENERGY. The PEER guide provides step-by-step guidance on carrying out prefabricated (panelized) exterior retrofits with a focus on improving the energy performance of existing housing. The information is specific to prefabricated, above-grade wall retrofits of Part 9 buildings (Housing and Small Buildings) under the National Building Code of Canada. Although the intended building typology is multi-family low-rise, the general concepts may be applicable from single-family housing projects to large buildings. The guide touches on all aspects of a deep retrofit from project conception through project completion, including pre-design, building measurement (building capture), panel design, fabrication, and installation processes.
RDH Building Science contributed to the PEER project in multiple ways, including research, building enclosure design and detailing, and building monitoring and hygrothermal modeling methodology development. RDH authored portions of the PEER Project Guide’s building enclosure sections, provided many of the illustrative graphics, and conducted a full peer review.