Research Publications
Thermal, Energy, and Indoor Environmental Quality Performance of the PA Hemp House
Authors: Ali Memari, Corey Griffin, Hojae Yi, Sarah Klinetob Lowe, Nadia Mirzai, Mahsa Hashemi
Publication Date: 10/31/2022
Description:
Given that over 95% of buildings are residential dwellings, for any meaningful global impact on CO2 reduction, locally sourced materials, and easy to construct methods are needed for energy-efficient and low-carbon residential buildings. One such promising material is industrial hemp, which allows the production of hempcrete, made up of hemp hurd and fibers mixed with lime and water for use as insulation and light blocks for home building. Given the increasing interest and potentials in growing hemp for various applications, including home building, DON Enterprise, Inc. initiated an effort to retrofit an existing house in New Castle, Pennsylvania to demonstrate the feasibility of using hemp in the application for home construction. This report focuses on experimentally determining the thermal resistance of the walls of the retrofitted house, measuring the indoor air quality, and developing energy modeling and analysis to evaluate the potential for energy saving when hempcrete is used as the main insulation material in the walls. The report provides some background and understanding related to hemp and hempcrete, as well as various attributes based on the literature review.
Structural Design of a Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) Single-Family Home
Authors: Anthony C. Jellen, Ali M. Memari
Publication Date: 2/1/2022
Description:
Many in the architectural/engineering/construction (AEC) community have shown interest in using cross-laminated timber (CLT) as a structural building material. CLT is an aesthetically pleasing, warm mass-timber panelized product that offers users a cost-effective, renewable, durable, fire-resistant alternative to traditional building materials, such as masonry, concrete, and light-framing. CLT is currently utilized in multi-family residential structures, but it is not widely used for the construction of single-family residences. In this report, a CLT structural system alternative design is presented for a single-family residence previously designed using conventional light-framing methods. The CLT design methodologies, design references, applicable codes, structural analysis, and complete structural design calculations of the CLT panels are presented. The report also points out to potential challenges and shortcomings. Overall, it offers a unique reference to CLT home design for practicing professionals and researchers.
Sustainability of Residential Concrete
Authors: Pragati Singh, Dr. Andrew Scanlon
Publication Date: 12/1/2013
Description:
Concrete is an environmentally friendly material. Its inherent qualities make it a natural choice for sustainable residential construction. The objective of this report is to highlight the important properties of concrete which make it a sustainable material. The report also discusses a few of the latest technologies such as insulated concrete forms and pervious concrete that further improve the sustainability of concrete.
Concrete in Residential Construction
Authors: Pragati Singh, Dr. Andrew Scanlon
Publication Date: 12/1/2013
Description:
Concrete is widely used in residential construction for footings, walls, and slabs on ground. Some of the problems that occur in residential concrete construction are discussed in the report and suggestions for avoiding these problems are mentioned. This report also provides a summary of requirements needed to achieve high quality concrete in residential construction. Aspects include concrete materials, proportions, mixing, placing, consolidation, finishing, curing and formwork. The important recommendations of codes pertaining to residential concrete construction are restated.
Evaluation of Residential Window Retrofit Solutions for Energy Efficiency
Authors: Tim Ariosto, Ali M. Memari
Publication Date: 12/1/2013
Description:
One of the major challenges facing homeowners is the high capital cost associated with fenestration upgrades. Cost prohibitive full window replacements leave designers with questions about the thermal performance of other retrofit options, such as installing curtains, screens, or shutters. This publication explores different performance criteria of such retrofit options.
Performance of Structural Insulated Panels with Different Fasteners and Splines Under Monotonic and Cyclic Loading
Authors: Stefanie Terentiuk, Ali M. Memari
Publication Date: 5/1/2011
Description:
Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are increasingly being used in residential construction, but there is a lack of published independent research regarding SIPs performance under seismic loading. The 2006 International Residential Code also prohibits SIPs construction in high seismic regions. This pilot study provides racking performance data and illustrates on approach to determining seismic response parameters for SIPs systems.
Determination of Seismic Performance Factors for Structural Insulated Panel Shear Walls Based on Fema P695 Methodology
Authors: Luke T. Donovan, Ali M. Memari
Publication Date: 5/1/2011
Description:
This report, presents the results of a preliminary study involving a total of twenty-one 8ft x 8ft shear walls tested under monotonic and cyclic loading. Four 4.5 in. thick SIP panels and one traditional wood-frame wall were tested under monotonic loading according to ASTM E 564-06, and thirteen 4.5 in. thick SIP panels and three wood-frame walls were tested under the CUREE loading protocol according to ASTM E 2126-08.
Analysis of the Wall Bracing Requirements for Pennsylvania
Authors: Tanya Myers, Bohumil Kasal
Publication Date: 5/1/2009
Description:
This study will determine if a reduced fifty year design wind speed is warranted for the state of Pennsylvania. If the reduced wind speed is feasible through statistical analysis, it will be further determined if the reduced wind speed will comply with the IRC bracing requirements for a typical two story home. Modified bracing requirements will be provided if warranted.
Energy Code Enforcement and Compliance in Pennsylvania: Lessons from the Field
Authors: Mike Turns
Publication Date: 7/1/2008
Description:
This project consisted of an energy code technical assistance program for municipalities across Pennsylvania, and an assessment of common energy code enforcement and building practices. An additional function was to estimate the energy performance of typical new homes in Pennsylvania through field testing and computer modeling.
Experimental Cyclic Racking Evaluation of Light-frame Wood Stud and Steel Stud Wall Systems
Authors: Ali M. Memari, Bohumil Kasal, Harvey B. Manbeck, Andrew R. Adam
Publication Date: 4/1/2008
Description:
This report summarizes the findings of an experimental study to characterize the cyclic racking and monotonic loading performance of light frame wall specimens made with either wood studs or steel studs.
Insulated Concrete Masonry Below-Grade Walls
Authors: N. Repka, B. Kasal
Publication Date: 3/1/2008
Description:
Nine different below-grade wall specimens were constructed, instrumented, and installed in the PHRC BeTL climate chamber with various (1) extruded polystyrene, (2) polyisocyanuate, and (3) glass fiber semi-rigid board insulation configurations. Walls system hygro-thermal behavior was quantified under steady-state soil (both clay and sand) conditions. A large volume of data is presented. Sand had twice higher thermal conductivity as compared to clay. This resulted in a better thermal performance of the structure with clay soil.
Housing Innovation-The University Housing Research Centers and the Building Codes
Authors: Eric. F. P. Burnett
Publication Date: 1/1/2002
Description:
The National Consortium for Housing Research Centers sponsored this session at the International Builder’s Show in 2002. Each paper demonstrates that the Housing Research Centers at various Universities do get involved in the regulatory process (often as third party agents). In addition to their research and development involvement, the Universities do have a significant role to play in the delivery and quality of the housing product.
The Concept of a Network of Full Service Housing Resource Centers
Authors: Eric Burnett
Publication Date: 1/1/2002
Description:
This position paper lays the groundwork for the concept of a national network of regional Housing Resource Centers as a strategic move which represents a promising and practical approach. This report is intended to offer a constructive and collaborative means of resolving a number of significant concerns.
Glazing Proportions for New Housing in PA
Authors: Eric F. P. Burnett
Publication Date: 1/1/2000
Description:
Climatic Zones for Energy Conservation in PA
Authors: Eric Burnett, Mark Fortney
Publication Date: 1/1/2000
Description:
In November 1999, Pennsylvania’s Governor Ridge signed the Uniform Construction Code (UCC) legislation into law, creating a statewide building code across Pennsylvania. The objective of this brief project was to review weather records and data on housing starts and, within the very tight constraints on time and funds, assess the IRC 2000 climatic criteria. This determined that Pennsylvania should be divided into three climate zones instead of the six proposed in the IRC 2000.
Thermal Envelope Assessment of Energy Code Provisions for Pennsylvania
Authors: Mark Fortney, Eric Burnett
Publication Date: 1/1/2000
Description:
Through evaluation of thermal envelope performance, this report demonstrates that the PHRC PA-Alternative Chapter 11 is equivalent to the IRC 2000 and that both are essentially equivalent to the 2000 IECC. The PA-Alternative exceeded the requirements of the 2000 IECC by at least 3.2% and provided a minimum of a 31.7% improvement over existing Act 222 requirements.
Evaluation of Energy Code Trade-offs for PA
Authors: Andy Lau, Mark Fortney
Publication Date: 1/1/2000
Description:
More than 130 computer scenarios were created to model both the trade-offs and the general thermal envelope requirements of the PA-Alternative Chapter 11 in three Pennsylvania towns for two model homes with conditioned and unconditioned basements and with two different heating and cooling systems. In all cases, it was found that the trade-offs being proposed in the PA-Alternative Chapter 11, Section PA1103.8 result in a reduction in annual energy use relative to the base case constructed to meet IRC 2000 prescriptive standards.
Energy Code Provisions for the Use of Light-Gauge, Cold-Formed Steel
Authors: Eric Burnett
Publication Date: 1/1/2000
Description:
IRC 2000 code requirements do not ensure satisfactory heat and moisture control for the conditions that prevail in low-rise, new housing in Pennsylvania. This report determined that moisture control provisions affect insulated sheathing requirements and that PA-Alternative Chapter 11 developed by the PHRC addresses moisture control provisions better than the IRC 2000.
Design Issues with Steel-stud-framed Wall Systems
Authors: Robert Bombino, Eric Burnett
Publication Date: 1/1/1999
Description:
Cold-formed, light-gauge steel framing is an alternative to wood framing for residential and commercial applications; however, steel framing cannot be used as a simple replacement for wood framing in exterior walls. Because steel and wood have very different material properties, they are not interchangeable in framing systems. This report examines the variables contributing to the choice of cold-formed, light-gauge steel framing in residential structures.
Marketing Modular
Authors: E. P. F. Burnett
Publication Date: 1/1/1999
Description:
An amended version of a presentation given in January 1999 at the NAHB International Builders’ Show in Dallas, this report demonstrates how a strategy to support Modular housing has been developed. It was one of five presentations at the session on Housing Innovation—Management, Business and Marketing Practice sponsored by the Consortium of Housing Research Centers.
House Building Industry: Educational Needs Assessment
Authors: Eric Burnett, Robert W. Buddenbohn, Jr.
Publication Date: 1/1/1999
Description:
House building and residential remodeling are important to the Pennsylvania economy, contributing more than $4 billion annually and employing well in excess of 100,000 people. The education, training and competence of those employed in these industries are therefore important, not only to the people involved but also to each industry and to the residents of Pennsylvania.
Residential Site Improvement and Subdivision Design Standards: A Review
Authors: W. Roy Newsome Jr.
Publication Date: 1/1/1999
Description:
Current use of subdivision regulations in the Commonwealth and adjacent states are reviewed and with a lens toward exploring the feasibility of establishing statewide standards or “best practices” for residential site improvement that might have applicability in the Commonwealth. This report also suggests actions that might be taken to improve the way in which land development is regulated in the Commonwealth.
The Importance of Modular Housing in Pennsylvania
Authors: Kenneth L. Balliet, Eric Burnett
Publication Date: 12/1/1998
Description:
Currently 23 manufacturers of modular housing are known to be located in Pennsylvania. Little is known about the size of the modular housing industry, its make-up, or even its product. Two frequently asked questions are: how important is the modular industry, and what is its impact on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?
The Use of Housewrap in Walls: Installation, Performance and Implications
Authors: Eric Burnett, Ed Bosack
Publication Date: 12/1/1998
Description:
In answer to expressed concerns from industry members, builders, consurmers, home owners, and remodelers, this project answers common questions regarding the use of Housewrap. If housewrap is replacing building paper, what’s wrong with the building paper? Why is housewrap better? What does it do? Does it actually do all the things that it is supposed to do?
Building Code Training Needs in Pennsylvania
Authors: Mark Fortney, Robert Buddenbohn, Jr.
Publication Date: 1/1/1998
Description:
Existing code-related training needs and anticipated training needs when a uniform, statewide building code is established are identified in this report. These needs are then compared with the code-related training currently available within the state, in order to identify gaps.
Below-Grade Construction: Issues and Needs
Authors: Eric Burnett
Publication Date: 12/1/1997
Description:
Most new housing is currently built with a basement that is not finished and not particularly well suited to future habitation (the “initial house”). It has been estimated that, if the builder can be persuaded to build and get paid for providing a potentially habitable and finishable basement, then the subsequent returns due to finishing the habitable basement area could amount to $400 million a year.
Foundation Wall Systems for Houses
Authors: Eric Burnett, John deGraauw
Publication Date: 12/1/1997
Description:
The objective of the project was to identify, evaluate, compare, and document the various foundation wall systems that are now available, or soon will be available. The scope of this work was limited to full-height foundation wall systems for new single-family housing in Pennsylvania.
Economic Assessment of Basement Insulation for Pennsylvania
Authors: William Bahnfleth
Publication Date: 12/1/1997
Description:
This study was undertaken to investigate the effectiveness of foundation insulation for both conditioned and unconditioned basements. A foundation heat-loss model of a representative basement was developed specifically for this purpose. Foundation assemblies considered include conventional cast-in-place concrete, cast-in-place concrete with insulating forms, and precast insulated concrete panels.
A Builder's Guide to Modular Housing
Authors: Jack Julo, Brennan Glantz, Harvey Manbeck, Ken Balliet, Eric Burnett
Publication Date: 6/1/1997
Description:
The report is intended to serve as a guide to builders who are considering adopting modular building practices. This guide complements a software product entitled Evaluating the Costs of Modular and Stick-built Construction: Alternative Construction Estimating (ACE).
Flood Damage to Basements: a Starting Point
Authors: Eric Burnett
Publication Date: 6/1/1997
Description:
This particular report is intended for builders and homeowners who are interested in reducing the risk of flood damage — or minimizing the consequences — to homes in Pennsylvania. It seeks to provide some insights into the issues and to help readers to obtain assistance and to locate detailed information on how to prevent or minimize flood damage.
Evaluating the Costs of Modular and Stick-Built Construction Using ACE
Authors: Ken Balliet
Publication Date: 6/1/1997
Description:
This project is intended to assist home builders, especially those who do most of the site work- that is stick builders or conventional or traditional builders. This software product is a “what you see is what you get” tool to compare stick built and modular house construction.
Investigation of the Computer Related Resources Available to the Pennsylvania Builder
Authors: C. McIntyre, M.K. Parfitt, E. Burnett
Publication Date: 12/1/1996
Description:
The information contained in this research report was compiled to assist members of the residential building industry to expand their skills and knowledge in the area of builder-related computer applications. The report identifies a combination of specific items as well as leads to builder computer resources that can be explored based on the specific needs of each type and size of builder firm.
A Technology Transfer Program in Computer-Aided Design for the Residential Building and Construction Industry
Authors: C. McIntyre, M.K. Parfitt, J.H. Willenbrock
Publication Date: 12/1/1995
Description:
The research efforts of the PHRC concerning this project have established the PHRC as a primary source of information with regard to CAD applications within the residential building industry. In addition, the technology transfer component of this project has gained some national recognition.
Computer-Aided Design for the Residential Builder
Authors: C. McIntyre
Publication Date: 12/1/1995
Description:
The workshop represents the Technology Transfer component of the CAD research as related to the residential building industry. As part of this research work, the PHRC has reviewed several CAD software programs developed specifically for the residential builder. The software programs were evaluated on their functionality, ease of use, and cost.
The Framework for an Integrated CAD-Based Information Management System for the Residential Building Industry
Authors: C. McIntyre. M.K. Parfitt, J.H.
Publication Date: 11/1/1995
Description:
This research effort will develop the practical means through which project planning and design information can be collected, organized, and processed for residential land development. CAD-based systems will serve as the engine which drives the information management system.
The Energy Cost Optimized Modular House
Authors: J. Rioux, G. Yuill
Publication Date: 11/1/1995
Description:
Current residential energy codes specify optimum levels of insulation and other energy conserving measures based on the assumed need of a heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Research in passive solar homes has reduced the load on the HVAC system. If the HVAC system were to be eliminated a dramatic savings would result. This could pay for the additional energy conservation features required to achieve a higher level of efficiency.
A Comparative Analysis of State Mandated Contractor Licensing Examinations
Authors: J. Julo, J.H. Willenbrock
Publication Date: 10/1/1995
Description:
This report provided information to the Knowledge Work Group which allowed them to build a model of the "average" state licensing examination. Utilizing this model, PBA was able to make an informed decision about the format and content of the examination.
Creep Behavior of Composite Structural Insulated Panels
Authors: S.B. Taylor, H.B. Manbeck, J.J. Janowiak
Publication Date: 9/1/1995
Description:
Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are being developed as an alternative structural system to conventional framing for residential and light commercial buildings. SIPs also have applications as foundation systems, refrigeration wall systems, and curtain walls covering timber frame and light frame construction. This report quantifies the flexural creep response of SIPs under sustained loading.
Test Item Development for the PBA Certified Residential Contractor Program
Authors: J. Julo, J.H. Willenbrock
Publication Date: 7/1/1995
Description:
The object of this report was to assist the Pennsylvania Builders Association with the development of a competency examination for their certified residential contractor program. This report represents the development of a pool of 423 questions.
Evaluation of Duct Sealing Effectiveness
Authors: G. Yuill, A. Musser
Publication Date: 7/1/1995
Description:
Inefficiencies in residential HVAC duct systems have been identified as a major source of energy loss in homes by several researchers. They have found that approximately 30-40% of the energy delivered to duct systems passing through unconditioned space is lost along the way through air leakage and conduction losses.
Management Guidelines for Growth Oriented Homebuilding Firms
Authors: J.H. Willenbrock
Publication Date: 10/1/1994
Description:
Progress Report on the Creep Performance of Structural Insulated Panels
Authors: S. B. Taylor, H. B. Manbeck
Publication Date: 9/1/1994
Description:
This report describes the progress of the testing protocol and defines the experimental plan to be followed in the theoretical research and physical testing.
Suggested Competency Standards for the Pennsylvania Builders Association State-Wide Builder Certification Program
Authors: J. Julo, J. H. Willenbrock
Publication Date: 8/1/1994
Description:
This research will assist the Pennsylvania Builders Association, and in particular the Knowledge Work Group, in developing the information necessary to implement a certification program and specifically a competency examination for home builders and remodelers.
A Manufacturer's Reference Guide to the Design and Optimization of Energy Efficient HVAC Systems for Modular Houses
Authors: Phyllis F. Adams
Publication Date: 8/1/1994
Description:
Research results indicate modular houses can be made more energy efficient and cost-effective while improving profit, production control, and product quality for the modular manufacturer. A fully integrated approach to HVAC system installation is recommended for maximum results. However, manufacturers who prefer a contractor field installation of all but module ductwork (or piping), terminal registers and grills and thermostats can also find the results of this study useful.
Building Healthy Homes: A Builder's Reference Guide
Authors: P. F. Adams
Publication Date: 8/1/1994
Description:
In the not too distant past, the main concern of prospective homeowners was a structurally sound home that met their needs. Builders were able to easily comply with consumer wishes. Today, residential building practices have become more complicated. In addition to meeting code standards, builders and remodelers have come face-to-face with environmental issues on many levels.
Course Manual for Computer-Based Cost Estimating
Authors: J. Julo, J. H. Willenbrock
Publication Date: 5/1/1994
Description:
An introduction to computer-based estimating terminology for builders also provides the elementary steps needed to construct a database and work packages for use in taking off and costing an estimate. This course also provides guidelines for buying cost estimating software.
Technology Transfer Manual for Computer-Based Cost Estimating: Edition 3
Authors: J. Julo, J. H. Willenbrock, S. Taylor, M. Syal
Publication Date: 5/1/1994
Description:
Written for builders, this report can assist by providing an introduction to computer-based estimating terminology and by providing the elementary steps needed to construct a database and the work packages for use in taking off and costing an estimate.
An Optimization Analysis of Residential Energy Systems
Authors: M. G. Suchar, G. K. Yuill, H. B. Manbeck, J. H. Willenbrock, H. E. Carr, Jr.
Publication Date: 8/1/1993
Description:
Research results will enable the home buying public, and the parties involved in the design/construction process, to use this decision matrix to make more intelligent choices about the most cost effective heating and cooling system options to install in various geographical areas in Pennsylvania.
Site Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems Research Workshop
Authors: D. A. Long, J. H. Willenbrock, C. McIntyre
Publication Date: 12/1/1991
Description:
Spray irrigation systems provide a viable alternative for marginal residential lots which may contain poor soils, a high water table, or steep slopes. The application and approval process is extensive. The costs are relatively expensive. However, a spray irrigation system may allow the development of a particular site that was previously unbuildable.
