Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does BCRA use Hygrothermal Modeling?
A: BCRA uses Hygrothermal modeling to best design the enclosure system. Specific characteristics of each building material are investigated to ensure that a wall will not have issues of condensation or thermal bridging. In the end, durable, cost-effective solutions are realized without costly failures.

Q: What is a “whole-building air leakage test”?
A: A whole-building air leakage test is a means by which to determine problem areas of the building’s enclosure and verify that the continuous air barrier has been designed and constructed properly. The building science group will pressure test the building using standards such as ASTM E 1827 to test the rate of leakage for the building envelope and locate areas of air leakage using infrared thermography. This test is intended to show problem areas during an investigation phase and also may demonstrate that the final building construction produced an effective air barrier, minimized air infiltration and exfiltration that reduced the building’s energy consumption.

Q: How does BCRA perform thermal inspections?
A: Thermal performance can only be observed nondestructively using infrared thermography. The building science group, following ASTM C 1060 standards, performs thermal inspections of the building, insuring thermal barriers have been adequately constructed. In addition, infrared thermography provides a clear picture of any problem areas, creating a quick analysis for repair.

Q: Why use window water testing?
A: To test for moisture leaks, especially around window installations, the team will water test the windows using ASTM E 331, evaluating the windows for proper installation to protect against water intrusion. Infrared thermography allows the team to locate areas of moisture that would not typically be observed without the use of infrared, helping to pinpoint problem areas and provide corrective measures.

Q: How does LEED fit into these requirements?
A: BCRA leads the industry in the design, construction administration, and testing of building enclosures and has been offering these services for years. BCRA’s Building Science group can be used in the LEED system to earn points for innovation credits. We are poised to answer the technical demands of any project in a holistic and cost-sensitive manner. BCRA provides technical services throughout the investigation, design, construction, and performance verification phases to ensure a successful and acceptable building.