Thermal Bridging in Office Curtain-wall Envelopes under the ECCCNYS-2025
Understanding Curtain Wall Thermal Performance, Thermal Bridging, and Code Compliance in Office Building Enclosures
Sponsored by NYSERDA
This course examines the role of curtainwall and storefront systems in meeting the building enclosure thermal performance requirements of the 2025 Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State (ECCCNYS) for commercial buildings. Using common office building examples, participants will review enclosure performance requirements, evaluate the relationship between façade design and building energy loads, and identify common thermal bridges and other weak points in conventional curtainwall and storefront assemblies.
The course discusses practical strategies to improve thermal performance, reduce heat transfer, and enhance the continuity of the building enclosure. Participants will also examine how enclosure performance influences building operations, energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and New York’s statewide low-carbon and clean energy goals.
Photo courtesy of NYSERDA
Originally published in Architectural Record
Originally published in April 2023
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Describe the requirements for building enclosure thermal performance in curtainwall and storefront assemblies.
- Understand the impact of envelope performance on energy loads in common office building programs.
- Identify common thermal bridges and other weak points in conventional curtainwall and storefront construction.
- Implement solutions that enhance thermal performance and mitigate thermal bridges in curtainwall and storefront construction.
- Explain how enclosure performance impacts office building operations and supports state-wide low-carbon goals.
