If a wall assembly has rigid sheathing and stud space blown insulation, can the rigid insulation be considered one component and the stud space insulation be considered a separate component? In this project, the blown-in insulation was first the only insulation, and it would have earned credit for being recycled-content. However, they later decided to add rigid insulation to improve the energy performance of the home. Can they still get credit?
What if the project is using SIPS, ICFs, or another integral insulation product? We have 3 projects with ICF and Block exterior wall systems with Foam insulation used on the ceiling/lid. The batt insulation in the attic meets MR 2.2, but the integrated rigid insulation in the walls does not meet MR 2.2. Can the project earn MR 2.2?
The requirements for insulation do not apply to rigid sheathing insulation, unless it is part of an integral insulation product (e.g., SIP, ICF). For example:
For a project with stud space blown in-insulation and rigid sheathing, only the cavity insulation must meet the MR 2.2 requirements to earn credit (The rigid sheathing can be ignored).
For a project constructed with SIPs, the insulation in the SIPs must meet MR 2.2 to earn credit.
The component in MR 2.2 for insulation will be amended in future versions to refer only to “cavity or integral insulation (e.g., in SIPs or ICFs)”.
Updated 10/1/13 for rating system applicability.