In the Baseline model for a major renovation, for the envelope part: Do we use the “normal” Baseline elements as are in appendix G or do we model the envelope as it was before the major renovation (table G3.1, 5, f)? Just reading this sentence tells me that we should model it as it was before the renovation in Baseline. But when we read in UM that Existing buildings include when unconditioned space is converted into conditioned space or when an addition is made, then I’m wondering what the definition of Existing Building is in ASHRAE. If an old building with an old envelope is being used, new windows are put in, more insulation, new façade and a completely new interior is built, but it will remain as an office just like before. Which is it then?
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Marcus Sheffer
LEED Fellow7group / Energy Opportunities
LEEDuser Expert
5909 thumbs up
October 7, 2013 - 9:52 am
The term "existing building" is defined (see definitions) in 90.1 - a building or portion thereof that was previously occupied or approved for occupancy by the authority having jurisdiction.
The baseline would contain the previously existing conditions and the proposed the new conditions.
Maria Porter
Sustainability specialistSkanska Sweden
271 thumbs up
October 8, 2013 - 5:03 am
Thanks Marcus!
It’s not always easy when using a standard that is not normally used in our country…
Maria Porter
Sustainability specialistSkanska Sweden
271 thumbs up
October 11, 2013 - 3:05 am
Marcus
I have now heard, that if the pre-renovation conditions are better than ASHRAE, then we can use ASHRAE in the Baseline model instead. (A colleague in the industry has had a project approved on those conditions). What’s your thought on that?
Marcus Sheffer
LEED Fellow7group / Energy Opportunities
LEEDuser Expert
5909 thumbs up
October 11, 2013 - 1:28 pm
One of the many issues with applying a US standard in other countries. What you describe would be an extremely rare situation here.
I do not think the language in Appendix G supports that approach. Keep in mind that precedent is not established by previous "rulings" on a single project.