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Presenter: John D. Wagner, AIA, BECxP, CxA+BE

Abstract: This session examines the role of thermal bridges in contemporary energy code compliance and enclosure performance evaluation. In Illinois, the recently adopted 2024 International Energy Conservation Code and ANSI/ASHRAE/IES 90.1-2022 introduce provisions requiring quantification of heat loss associated with enclosure interfaces, attachments, and structural penetrations. In jurisdictions adopting these model codes, projects must account for thermal bridges within prescribed compliance pathways. As a result, compliance increasingly depends on the effective thermal performance of constructed details rather than solely on nominal assembly U-values indicated in design documentation. Thermal bridges are widely recognized by practitioners, yet their impact is frequently underestimated as a source of energy underperformance in building enclosures. This presentation introduces architects to the principles of thermal bridging, its effect on enclosure performance, and the process of derating assemblies to account for these conditions. The discussion examines common enclosure details, including slab edges, parapets, fenestration interfaces, cladding attachments, and roof to wall transitions. Participants will learn how linear and point thermal bridges influence effective U-values and how these impacts are evaluated under contemporary energy codes.

Emphasis is placed on identifying high-risk details, understanding documentation and calculation requirements, and recognizing how performance verification supports compliance during design and construction. Case-based examples guide participants through the derating of representative assemblies and demonstrate how early technical evaluation and interdisciplinary coordination reduce performance risk while preserving architectural intent. The session situates thermal derating within the context of evolving architectural practice, where collaboration with enclosure specialists and commissioning providers is increasingly necessary to demonstrate compliance to authorities having jurisdiction. By clarifying thermal derating requirements, the course reinforces the importance of building science literacy, constructability, and measurable performance outcomes during design development and construction documentation. It is relevant to architects and specialists engaged in both new construction and renovation projects and reflects the rising expectation that project teams deliver code-compliant, durable, and energy-efficient buildings.

Jessica Saravia, AIA, CSI, CCS, CDT, NCARB, LEED AP is the Technical Director at DMAC Architecture & Interiors and Chairperson of the Chicago Building Enclosure Council

A 60 minute discussion of getting back to basics as a way to further progress in building resilience and passive survivability. Building science and technology continue to evolve and advance in both possibilities for improved outcomes and complexity. The more we learn about vented rainscreens, smart vapor barriers, all in one water resistive barriers and insulation products the more intricate our detailing becomes. High performance envelopes are exciting and full of promise even with the challenges of coordination and installation execution. 

However, I recently read an essay by Todd Williams and Billie Tsien called ‘On Slowness’ where they quoted Milan Kundara: “There is a secret bond between slowness and memory, between speed and forgetting”. The speed with which we are developing new technologies to enhance our building performance may be increasing our forgetting of the basic principles that helped people survive for hundreds of years without air conditioning and ducted heat. If we only use our new tools to overcome inefficiencies designed into the bones of our buildings, we are doing ourselves and our clients and communities a grave disservice. 

This presentation will review primitive cooling, heating, and resilience strategies and how they can be used to amplify and expand the effectiveness of our emerging technology for passive survivability and energy efficiency.

Register here - https://wje.webex.com/weblink/register/r0ce411b9450972f36e644a057e4df37c

Christian Warren

Presenter Christian Warren of W. R. Meadows serves as business development for the company's Gemite industrial coatings line. With over 17 years of experience in the field, Christian specializes in expanding market territories and educating construction professionals on crystalline and cementitious waterproofing. His strategic and technical expertise supports W. R. Meadows objectives to enhance market presence and product offerings.

This course provides an overview of the composition of concrete and some of the inherent problems relating to concrete deterioration as a result of water penetration. It covers the technical attributes of cementitious waterproofing materials, including crystalline technology and cementitious polymer-modified flexible coatings to prevent water penetration. The bulk of the course is focused specifically on crystalline waterproofing technology, a proven material that is shown to be the best waterproofing material choice for specific waterproofing applications. This course will explain ideal application scenarios for the waterproofing materials being discussed and focus on detailed information regarding substrate preparation, which is essential to all successful applications.