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Retrofit Masonry Walls Cold Climate

Last Updated: Apr 12, 2010

I have recently seen a design for an existing (almost 100 years old) masonry building to be remodeled in a cold climate condition. The interior side of the existing brick walls are to receive 2" SPF (From a well known manufacturer) but no vapor barrier was specified. The Relative Humidity is going to be minimally 45% - as this is going to be a new Art Center. The glazing specifications also call for a system with a minimum CRF of 45.

So between the high RH, lack of VB, and what I feel is a low CRF, my opinion is this project will endure numerous future meetings regarding condensation and potential exterior wall failures both from the curtain wall and mass wall side. Am I curious if others agree, and what kind of solutions I might be able to provide.

Does anyone have any suggestions?

Brian

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