Codes: The Right Energy Upgrade for Historic Buildings

Owners and designers often want to upgrade an historic building’s energy performance, but can struggle with what are the best choices with regards to invasiveness, long term performance, payback, etc. Using common examples, this presentation examines the impact and effectiveness of a variety of historic building upgrades. Relatively simple interventions, such as installing window weather-stripping and sealing other air leakage paths, or expanding mechanical systems’ setpoints, can reduce energy consumption with little building fabric impact. Other more extensive interventions, such as retrofitting wall or roof insulation, or installing new mechanical systems, may be needed depending on the building’s use or goals.