Deep retrofits of existing buildings play a key role in meeting greenhouse gas emission reduction goals in North America and beyond. Currently no deep retrofit solution exists in North America that is readily deployable at the scale of the existing building stock. Challenges include structural integrity, contamination, and implementing upgrades without disrupting tenants.

This presentation delivers takeaways from the REALIZE-CA projects supported by the California Energy Commission. In these low-rise multifamily retrofit demonstrations, envelope and HVAC retrofit strategies were chosen from the beginning for scalability. We will review the design concept of using panelized exterior overclad panels to retrofit 1960s era townhomes. This is followed by discussion of challenges in construction including existing conditions, materials sourcing, and contractor coordination.  We will also analyze sensor data from the completed retrofit assemblies to understand performance in the field.

This presentation will equip attendees to be able to do the following:

• Understand how existing conditions can complicate an overclad retrofit.
• Determine what existing wall and roof conditions are conducive to overclad retrofits.
• Understand how to engage with contractors and suppliers who are accustomed to new construction.
• Understand how much overclad retrofits can improve enclosure performance.
• Gauge the relative costs of demolition, abatement, materials, and installation in an over clad retrofit

Presenter:
Michael Hsueh has been with RDH Building Science for 6 years as a building science engineer consulting with consultant to architects, contractors, and owners. He works on enclosure-related challenges in design, construction, and for existing buildings. Prior to joining RDH, Michael worked at Integral Group for 5½ years as an energy modeler and mechanical design engineer. Michael’s approach to buildings centers around optimizing the enclosure to draw out the full potential of the mechanical system. He lives in San Diego where his free time is spent cooking with family or surfing with friends