NOMINAL INSULATION Nominal insulation accounts for insulation layer only walls below grade, floors over unheated spaces, and concrete floor slabs. There is complete flexibility within the calcula- tor to customize each assembly to how you build. Many options are available for framing types, spacing of framing mem- bers, various kinds of cladding, and sev- eral sheathing material options. The flexibility in the calculator allows the user to discover the optimum place- ment for insulation, thus maximizing ef- EFFECTIVE INSULATION Effective insulation accounts for insulation, thermal bridging from framing, interior finish, sheathing and cladding fective R-value of the assembly. A de- tailed report of the calculation can be downloaded that provides thermal re- sistance for each component and the entire assembly. The report can be used during permit application as it is recog- nized and accepted by building depart- ments across Canada. It is a substantial adjustment in the construction industry when moving lan- guage from nominal to effective R-val- ues. This change however, will allow the construction of more durable assem- blies that lead to less associated health risks for the occupants, and the twofold effect of minimizing thermal bridging will lessen utility bills while allowing oc- cupants to experience a more comfort- able home. Tyler Simpson is technical manager, Ontario, for Owens Corning. www.threadsoflife.ca The Canadian Design and Construction Report — March 2016 – 9