Building Science Consulting
RLC Engineering, PLLC utilizes a research-based approach in building science consulting.
Technical data is reviewed, and properties and performance based on temperature and humidity are evaluated and compared to building science principles and physics. Many materials, systems and technologies perform differently under different conditions or environments.
Just as climate and environment vary from one region to the next, so do construction techniques. Coastal houses are often built on piles or poles to elevate them above potential flood waters. Crawlspace foundations are common in NC, SC, AR and OR, while slab foundations are common further south with basements common further north. With climate variations from hot and humid, to marine, to hot and dry, to cold, each of these has the potential to affect how a material, system or technology performs.
Examples of potential product issues are: Energy Recovery Ventilators may work well in the Northern U.S., but may not perform as expected in warm, humid climates because of the smaller temperature differences combined with higher moisture loads. Vented attic may work well in cold climates in addressing ice damming, but may increase moisture loads and duct sweating in warmer climates.
Technologies or products designed in one part of the world may be very appealing, but may not be appropriate for a climate or construction technique in an area of the U.S. Materials or systems that work well in northern U.S. may not perform the same in the warmer, more humid southeast. Building Science Consulting assists contractors, owners and design professionals with choosing appropriate materials, systems and/or technologies. We also offer technical assistance with materials and technologies, crawlspaces and HVAC systems.
Have a Building Science Question?
RLC Engineering, PLLC
P.O. Box 1437
Leicester, NC 28748
info@rlcengineering.com
(864) 506-4701
