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New or existing hardscapes?
This credit is fairly straightforward and easy to achieve if you are newly creating all the hardscapes. You may comply by applying prescriptive design measures outlined by LEED to 50% of your site’s hardscape, or by covering 50% of your project's parking spaces.
There can be added costs and labor if your project needs to modify existing hardscapes to meet the prescriptive goals of the credit: for example, taking out a black asphalt parking lot to install a more reflective material.
When dealing with existing hardscapes, it may be more cost-effective to shade areas with trees and architectural canopies than to replace them. This credit can be unattainable if your project’s hardscapes do not already comply and you do not have control over the design of hardscapes. ...
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117 Comments
7.1 and 7.2 Overlap?
I have building with zero lot line. Can I receive credit for high SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. hardscape under both credits for the same space on the roof? Do I automatically get 7.1 b/c there's no non-roof areaRoof area is the area of the uppermost surface of the building which covers enclosed Gross Floor Area, as measured when projected onto a flat, horizontal surface (i.e. as seen in Roof Plan view). ‘Roofs’, or portions of roofs, covering unenclosed areas (e.g. roofs over porches and open covered parking structures) are not included in the areas used to evaluate compliance with SSc7.2, though they may be applicable to SSc7.1.? Any insight would be appreciated.
I do not think the GBCI reviewers will give you the points for SSc7.1 if you do not have any hardscape. That would not meet the intent of the credit.
Is a wood deck considered hardscape?
Is a wood plank deck with bare ground beneath it considered hardscape? (similar in construction to a typical residential-style deck)
The reference language says, "Hardscape consists of the inanimate elements of the building landscaping. Examples include pavement, roadways, stonewalls, concrete paths and sidewalks, and concrete, brick, and tile patios."
Trellises?
We are considering trellises with plants and/or vines on top to cover 50% of the parking. Although this is not quite vegetated green roof, it does put the parking under cover. What are your thoughts?
I would think this would be consider shading an not covering the parking. Thus you would comply with Option 1: Provide shading of 50% of the parking.
Crissy, I agree it does sound more toward shades. However, for Option 1, we need to cover 50% of all hardscape, not just the parking.
Simon,
True. Is there any way to using a combination of shading from the trellises and high SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. products to cover 50% of the site hardscape?
Defining "Underground"
Dear all,
I have a car parking for my school whose roof serves as a playground for kids:
1) Can I consider this parking to be "Underground" and be exempted from the SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. requirement (LEED Ref. Guide p. 112), or
2) Is this considered a roof used to shade / cover a parking, and must have an SRI > 29 (LEED Ref. Guide p. 109)?
Many thanks for your help!
1. Yes, anything under this roof would be underground.
2. Yes, this playground is now a roof and you need to include is in SSc7.2. You also need to remember that the entry to this playground is now a 'regular entry' if you are going for IEQc5.
Many thanks Susan!
My question was Case #1 OR Case #2, since both are listed in SSc7.2.
If my Case #1 is correct (my parking would be considered underground), then can you please give me an example whereby there exists a roof used to shade / cover a parking?
Sidewell Friends school in DC area. I believe that they are a case study on the USGBC site for schools. Their parking is underground but I believe they planted the roof.
Thanks Susan,
I didn't find a description in this Case Study.
I was wondering whether you can give me a descriptive example of what may be a case of a roof used to cover a parking (either a photograph or a narrative example).
Thanks again..
George,
A quick google search should pop up the required information.
S
Thanks Susan.. I'm going to rephrase my question just to make sure we're understanding each other:
The school has 2 buildings: "North Block" and "South Block"
A person on the street can enter the school via the North side of the North Block. While walking towards the South direction (and the South building too), he/she will pass by 2 car parking spots, which are on the Ground Floor Level, but fully under the North Building (Classrooms begin at the First Floor). In terms of SSc7.1, we are fine for these 2 parking spots, since they classify under "Parking under a building".
This person continues to move South, and finds himself/herself in a car parking (~15 cars) with a ceiling above. This ceiling is nothing but the floor of a playground used for elementary students. If the person moves furthermore to the South direction, he/she will still see a ceiling above, but this ceiling would then be the First Floor of the "South Block". Again, there is no SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. requirements for the cars under the South Block (Parking under a building).
My question is: For SSc7.1: do we need SRI compliance for the students' playground or not?
SRI for Corrugated metal roof
Our project has corrugated metal roof like which can be shown by clicking the link below.
http://www.sakata-s.co.jp/product/88.html
The roof will be installed almost horizontally as a whole. But the corrugated metal roof has two types of part in itself. One is the horizontal part (top of mountain and bottom of valley) and the other is steep-sloped part. Each part appears repeatedly and shapes stripes. Is it acceptable to apply SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. for low-sloped roof to the first type of roof areaRoof area is the area of the uppermost surface of the building which covers enclosed Gross Floor Area, as measured when projected onto a flat, horizontal surface (i.e. as seen in Roof Plan view). ‘Roofs’, or portions of roofs, covering unenclosed areas (e.g. roofs over porches and open covered parking structures) are not included in the areas used to evaluate compliance with SSc7.2, though they may be applicable to SSc7.1. (horizontal), and SRI for steep-sloped roof to the latter type of roof area by prorating the total roof area on the basis of two areas according to section drawing?
Noriko, I don't think that fits with the intent of the requirements. I think GBCI will see this as a low-slope roof in its entirety.
SRI Testing for Concrete?
Do you have to submit concrete for SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. testing if in the LEED-NC reference table it is listed as 35 for (new gray)? Also, do they count the intitial value or the aged 3 year value?
Christina, you can use the default SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. values from the LEED Reference Guide (as we note above in the Checklists tab, FYI).
If it's new concrete you can use the new value.
Washing Existing Concrete and Default Values
Has anyone tried to clean and lighten existing concrete to qualify for this credit? If so, what documentation did you have to provide to show that it was "suficiently cleaned and lightened to qualify for the default SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. value"? What process did you use to lighten it? Would pressure washing suffice? Did you know what type of concrete you had originally (gray, versus another color)?
Secondly, have people had success entering default values from the Reference Guide for the hardscape materials or have you had to find values from your manufacturer?
Removing Hardscape
Has anyone heard of an alternate compliance path where we count the new greenspace we're creating where we're removing hardscape, as a reduction in the heat island effectHeat island effect refers to the absorption of heat by hardscapes, such as dark, nonreflective pavement and buildings, and its radiation to surrounding areas. Particularly in urban areas, other sources may include vehicle exhaust, air-conditioners, and street equipment; reduced airflow from tall buildings and narrow streets exacerbates the effect. on the site?
Emily, I would be interested in hearing other experiences, but I think this would be unlikely.
Removing hardscape is definitely a good thing, but it helps you in so many other ways—SSc6.1, SSc6.2, SSc5.1—that I don't think it's a strategy that is really crying out for special consideration. I would say that this credit is focusing on reducing the impact of the hardscape you do have, while those credits reward you amply for not having hardscape.
White polyethylene SRI
Hi,
We are pursuing the credit by covering 50% of the parking places with a white polyethylene shade cloth of 70% density. The project is outside US, and we don´t have shaders labeled with SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. values to use as reference. We are sure the material comply with the credit requirement, but we couldn´t find a similar material as reference in the web. Its there any page were we can find a SRI value for a white polyethylene mesh?
The exact SRI value will not be informed because we do not have the meas to make the analysis, but we suppose that the reviewer will know that this kind of material is good enough. If we present photographs of the shader cloth it would be enough to comply?
Thanks
You will need to submit a sample to a lab to determine the SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. value. It is an inexpensive exercise.
Hi Steve, Thanks for the reply.
Sending a sample to a laboratory will represent an extra cost to the owner. Is there any list of common SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. values for tipical materials that LEED supports?
It seems that a white polyethylene easily comply for this credit, the lab seems unnecesary.
Any other recomendation outside the analysis?
Thanks
Vegitative Roof Shading == High Reflectant Surface ?
Dear Forum,
I am submitting an alternative path for compliance, in that even though the vegetation reflection and emission properties of the leaves of my vegetated roof shading is only SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. 23, we say that to be consistent with the rest of the LEED system (i.e. SSc7.1), I should consider this surface also as qualifying.
Has this been tried before?
Jean, shading the non-roof hardscape surfaces with trees is standard compliance path for this credit. If the surface itself is already vegetated and not hardscape, it doesn't fall under the scope of this credit. So, I don't think an alternate compliance path may be necessary here.
Hybrid Car Parking Shadin (structural and vegetation)
Hi Everybody,
I intended to meet SS 7.1 Heat Island EffectHeat island effect refers to the absorption of heat by hardscapes, such as dark, nonreflective pavement and buildings, and its radiation to surrounding areas. Particularly in urban areas, other sources may include vehicle exhaust, air-conditioners, and street equipment; reduced airflow from tall buildings and narrow streets exacerbates the effect. - Nonroof via Option 2 by covering all car parking spaces in vegetative shade.
On closer examination of the project definiton for this option I note that covered parking is defined as 'parking underground, under deck, under roof, or under building'. The shade from the vegetation will still count towards Option 1 but the large amount of unshaded roadway on the site makes this compliance path look unlikey.
Has anywone heard of structural shade not mentioned in the covered parking definition, such as canvas sheeting, providing compliance for this credit?
Also - what are people's thoughts on the combination of structural, such as a wooden trellis, and vegetation providing shading for Option 2 of the credit.
Thanks - Francis
This is similar to my case above...can't wait to see how other people reply.
This seems fine to me. Regarding architectural devices such as canvas, there is a provision for that in the credit language already, and they have to have an SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. greater than 29. You can pursue a combination of measures. Regarding the wooden trellises with vegetation grown on them, this is a little out of the ordinary, but as long as you can prove that it's basically equivalent or better than shade provided by a tree, I would anticipate getting approval. Showing this might be tricky, though, and I would think it through carefully.
An additional question that I have on these issue is that, for example, If I include shading from trees to be grown in the next 5 years, can I include them in the energy model to gain more credits for EAC1?
Thanks in advance
Parking garage under building
I have a building with the first two floors are made up of a parking garage, and the floors above are condominiums. For this credit, does the SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. of the roof above the top floor of the condominiums matter at all? Or, since the parking garage is covered by the condos, can I disregard the SRI of the roof?
Thank you.
Yep - since the parking is within the building the building roof SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. only relates to SS 7.2 Heat Island EffectHeat island effect refers to the absorption of heat by hardscapes, such as dark, nonreflective pavement and buildings, and its radiation to surrounding areas. Particularly in urban areas, other sources may include vehicle exhaust, air-conditioners, and street equipment; reduced airflow from tall buildings and narrow streets exacerbates the effect. - Roof .To quote the LEED 2009 reference guide (printed page 112) 'there is no SRI requirement for parking that is underground, under deck, or under a building as long as any exposed parking surface area is 50% or less of the total parking surfaces. Hope that helps.
Francis
I hope this also applies to shaded hardscape...
Prereq?
My colleague started this blog about coal tar products (asphalt) http://coaltarfreeamerica.blogspot.com
I think we need heat island effectHeat island effect refers to the absorption of heat by hardscapes, such as dark, nonreflective pavement and buildings, and its radiation to surrounding areas. Particularly in urban areas, other sources may include vehicle exhaust, air-conditioners, and street equipment; reduced airflow from tall buildings and narrow streets exacerbates the effect. and cool paving strategies- but also need to recognize the negative environmental impact of asphalt- so it should be a prerequisite.
Sue, you should comment on the LEED 2012 draft so that USGBC takes your opinion into account:
www.leeduser.com/2012comment
Include curbs and tops of walls? SRI of granite curb?
In adding up the "paved" areas, are granite curbs (between the sidewalk and street) typically included? How about the tops of planter bed walls??
Also, I am finding it just about impossible to find SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. values for granite curbing. Anyone have a good resource?
Thanks!
Table SSc7.1-2 not populating
I have posed this question to LEED help but they have still not gotten back to me and I am getting impatient. The line .....Total area of all nonroof hardscape surfaces on project site (sf) in Table SSc7.1-2 is not filling with a total from Table SSc7.1-1. And I am unable to manually input. Has anyone else had this problem and/or can tell me if I am doing something incorrectly? Thank you.
Sara - hopefully someone at USGBC has gotten back to you by now, but that line is actually auto-filled from Form PI2. You need to enter the project info, then it will show in the form for SSc7.1. Hope that helps!
Gravel Road / Truck Fill
I am working on a project in northern BC that has a gravel road and truck fill station. We would like to pursue the Heat Island EffectHeat island effect refers to the absorption of heat by hardscapes, such as dark, nonreflective pavement and buildings, and its radiation to surrounding areas. Particularly in urban areas, other sources may include vehicle exhaust, air-conditioners, and street equipment; reduced airflow from tall buildings and narrow streets exacerbates the effect. - Non Roof credit. I'm wondering if gravel is considered a hardscape surface? If so, does that mean we will have to source out gravel with an SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. of at least 29?
Sarah,
According to the reference guide you must include all roads in the hardscape calculations, so I would include the gravel road in the calculations. I am not exactly sure what you mean by truck fill station, but I think it should also be included in the calculation. This means that you will have to determine the SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. of the gravel, which could prove difficult. I would suggest reaching out to the gravel provider and see if they have any information on the SRI value.
The only thing I can find is using the SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. value in SSC7.2 for a gravel ballast. In Table 1, a light gravel on a built-up roofA roof covering consisting of several successive layers (each of which is called a "ply"), usually of roofing felt, with mopping of hot asphalt between layers and topped by a mineral-surfaced layer or by gravel embedded in a heavy coat of asphalt. has an SRI of 37. Also, gravel is used in making concrete, so maybe an SRI of 35 is playing it safe. Any other ideas?
Five year shade calculation.
Apologies in advance as I know I have read the answer to my question somewhere. I just can't find it. WHEN should the five year shade calculation be performed? i.e time of day, time of year?
It needs to be calculated at 10 am, Noon and 3pm on the Summer Solstice, June 21st.
Weathered Concrete
I'm looking to find the SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. value of weather beige concrete and weathered beige exposed aggregate concrete. Does anyone know where I can find these values? The reference guide only lists the weathered white concrete SRI value.
Thanks!
Building footprint vs. hardscape
Would entry stairs to the building be considered part of the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint., or part of the site hardscape? Thanks.
Erica, this seems like a bit of a gray area and could depend a bit on site specifics and design. However, I would say as a general rule that stairs are part of the site hardscape. I am picturing, for example, concrete stairs leading up to the entry from a concrete sidewalk—seems like a site feature.
Industrial process facilities & LEED definition of a building
My question concerns what is and is not a building for LEED purposes.
We are currently involved in a LEED NC project on the vast working campus of a regional utility. The building which we wish to certify is about 30,000 SF, with 1500 SF of regularly occupied space. The rest of the building is circulation and support spaces (storage, data, etc.) and 25,000 SF of industrial process, not conditioned. The energy model will only include this building.
Our LEED project boundary, established by the area within the same contract, is several acres, and it contains lots of man-made stuff and structures with no occupied or conditioned space: sludge basins, switch gear yard, pads with tank storage on them, generators, etc. We are approaching all of this as if it were paving or infrastructure: that is, these objects only enter into the LEED project in terms of their materials, as if they were paving or landscape elements.
There is an existing switchear building, within the boundary but not part of the project.
The big conundrum is a 49,000 SF, single story structure, mostly enclosed space, but, excepting the 800 SF electrical room, it is not conditioned. None of it, not even the electrical room, is regularly occupied. It is all industrial process area. There is a concrete slab deck over this industrial process area, with no waterproofing assembly. The electrical room is perched on top of this deck, like a little cabin. No part of this building is being accounted for in the energy model.
It is our intention to NOT consider this a building, but rather a facility area, like all of the other ancillary equipment pads, storage and process areas. Is there a flaw in this logic, such as that an enclosed space of this size must be considered a building, regardless of occupancy?
And if it is not a building, how do we treat that deck? Since the space under it isn’t conditioned, in terms of the Heat Island credits, is it site paving?
I am eager to hear if anyone has ever tried to certify a similar project.
Susan, have you reviewed the LEED Minimum Program Requirements supplemental guidance document? There are a couple clauses in there about excluding certain auxiliary buildings from your efforts. I would start by reviewing that—I think it will clarify at least some of your questions.
They refer to being able to exclude 2 small buildings that would be inelegible for certification for several reasons - ours would be excluded because of MPR #5, no occupants. However, like I said, one of these unoccupied ancillary buildings is is BIG (49,000SF). Also we have 2 new buildings to exclude, and two more exisiting ancillary, unoccupied buildings.
These are the unadressed issues that made me post the question.
Shade from future tree canopy within 5 years
Under SSc7.1 one strategy is to shade hardscape with trees. Is there a template or guideline that shows the average tree canopy diameter within 5 years for certain species? I have been told to use ANLA standards for installed height and spread. Also I have been told to call local nurseries to get some growth estimates.
double counting 7.1 and 7.2?
My project is a bus maintaince depot in New York City with a zero lot line. The top floor (under the "roof" is all bus parking for vehicle maintenance and storage). The space is tempered or conditioned. Above the buses the "roof" is part green roof and the rest is white.
If I define this as a roof which I think it is for use in 7.2 can I also claim 7.1 for covered parking? Or is this somehow double counting?
Christopher, I am thinking out loud here but I am wondering if the bus parking space can really be considered "parking" if it is under a roof, AND conditioned, AND possibly more of a workplace than a regular parking area.
I'd appreciate other thoughts and opinions.
Tristan,
The work space or maintenance bays are on the floors below. The entire floor really is parking for buses awaiting maintenance.
But that's another wrinkle to this project - according to CIRCredit Interpretation Ruling. Used by design team members experiencing difficulties in the application of a LEED prerequisite or credit to a project. Typically, difficulties arise when specific issues are not directly addressed by LEED information/guide dated 01/10/2008 regarding a Car Rental Facility it states that parking spaces designated for vehicle maintenance and storage can be excluded from total parking count for SSc4.3 and SSc4.4. We're not providing any FTEFull-time equivalent (FTE) represents a regular building occupant who spends 8 hours a day (40 hours a week) in the project building. Part-time or overtime occupants have FTE values based on their hours per day divided by 8 (or hours per week divided by 40). Transient Occupants can be reported as either daily totals or as part of the FTE. Residential occupancy should be estimated based on the number and size of units. Core and Shell projects should refer to the default occupancy table in the Reference Guide appendix. All occupant assumptions must be consistent across all credits in all categories. parking so "no new parking".
So can you have covered parking and not provide "no new parking" if there is no official "parking" other than the building's use which is to maintain and store a fleet of city buses (about 140)?
SRI Testing: easy/cheap or hard/expensive?
Has anyone here looked into what it takes to test a surface for SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100.? Does it require some kind of certified testing facility with expensive equipment and rigid protocols? Or can a regular guy like me do it with inexpensive equipment and get reasonably accurate results?
I know ASTMVoluntary standards development organization which creates source technical standards for materials, products, systems, and services publishes and sells the standards, but I'm cheap and don't want to pay for a lark.
It seems like the issue comes up on project after project: existing roofing, gravel paving, natural stone, etc. If I could test these materials myself, I'd be a champ, many times over.
I have never looked into what it takes to test a surface for SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100., but I am sure you could contact a roofing manufacturer and then can explain the process.
Also look on the Cool Roof Rating Council, www.coolroofs.org, for more information.
We are certifying a building in Mexico and there are no providers possesing SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. information about their products. Is there any alternative way to prove SRI compliance of materials and get the credit points with the SRI-option?
Existing Roads
Our project is a transportation maintenance facility with an existing road leading into the site and included in the project boundary. Because it is an exisitng structure, can it be excluded from option 1 calculations?
No, there aren't exceptions for existing infrastructure under this credit.
Building shading to a courtyard acceptable?
I have a building which wraps a round a courtyard on 3 sides and on the fourth is an existing building - this building will be maintained, this is almost all the non roof areaRoof area is the area of the uppermost surface of the building which covers enclosed Gross Floor Area, as measured when projected onto a flat, horizontal surface (i.e. as seen in Roof Plan view). ‘Roofs’, or portions of roofs, covering unenclosed areas (e.g. roofs over porches and open covered parking structures) are not included in the areas used to evaluate compliance with SSc7.2, though they may be applicable to SSc7.1. for the project. Would it be acceptable for this credit if it can be shown that the mean shade coverage (based on summer solstice) would shade at least 50% of the courtyard as its very small? or can this credit only be achieved through material type, architectural devices or vegetation?
regards
Vivien,
You should be able to document the credit showing that at least 50% of the courtyard is shaded on the summer solstice. The credit does require that the structures shading the hardscape surfaces have an SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. value of at least 29, which means that you will have to ascertain the SRI value of the new and existing buildings.
Option 2 parking undercover
we are pursuing a university project under the Multiple Buildings and On-Campus Building Projects (2010 application), there are 5 residential housing buildings and one dining facility. We are also construction a parking garage that will be used by these buildings and shared with other buildings on campus. We cannot certify the garage because it does not meet MPR for FTEs, so we are not including it in our campus boundary. It is my understanding that we can still count the garage parking that will be used by our buildings to achieve this credit (undercover parking) as well as SSc4.3 & c4.4 because the MPR document states that "facilities (including parking) that are not within the LEED project boundary but are used to demonstrate compliance with a credit, as allowed per the rating system..."
please advise.
thanks.
Are you sure it's correct to not include the garage inside the campus boundary? That doesn't seem right to me. Also, see page 19 of the MPR supplemental guidance.
I do with your interpretation of the issue you outline above, however, as long as you comply with the proviso about not double-counting the benefits between LEED projects.
Loading Bays & Motorcycle racks
Dear all,
I am seeking 2 points for this credit for a retail mall by placing all the parking spaces under cover.
My questions are:
1) There are 2 loading bays on different levels which are not under cover. A truck will park temporarily in the loading bays to transport the goods to the shops/restaurants of the mall (for like 5 minutes). We can assume that during certain durations of the day, at least 1 truck will be in the loading bay loading/unloading goods. Being not under cover, is there a risk that the USGBC considers less than 100% of my parking spaces to be undercover, and thus grant me only 1 point?
2) Around 8 racks will be provided for parking motorcycles. Will these spaces need to be under cover also, similar to car parking spaces?
Many thanks!
George, I don't think the loading dock would be considered "parking." I do think that the motorcycle area would be considered parking, though.
Hardscape minimum area
Hi. This is a new 5000sqft office building within an industrial site. This new building will be attached to the main process area. At this moment everything surrounding the main process area is an asphalt road. Question is, when they build the office building, if they install a walkway surrounding the new building and I delineate my LEED boundary around the walkway, can I earn this credit if I install a high SRIThe solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure of a material's ability to reject solar heat, as shown by a small temperature rise. Standard black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) is 100. For example, a standard black surface has a temperature rise of 90_F (50_C) in full sun, and a standard white surface has a temperature rise of 14.6_F (8.1_C). Once the maximum temperature rise of a given material has been computed, the SRI can be calculated by interpolating between the values for white and black. Materials with the highest SRI values are the coolest choices for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined, particularly hot materials can even take slightly negative values, and particularly cool materials can even exceed 100. material on the walkway?
Also, can I take credit for the alternative transportation - parking capacity, due to the fact that I'm not building any new parking space?. Regardless that the industrial plant has a parking lot. Technically it will be out of my LEED boundary.
If there is existing parking but you don't add parking, you can claim no new parking.
As far as setting the project boundary, you should review the LEED MPRs. You have to include land that supports normal operations for the building, which may include parking.
A Unique Situation for an Addition
We are working on getting an addition certified under version 3.0 that is being added onto an original structure that was certified under version 2.1.
According to the Minimum Program Requirements handbook, we cannot count any existing hardscape in the project boundary towards SSc7.1 under version 3 since we had already earned it previously in version 2.1 for the original building when the concrete was new. (The diagram at the bottom of page 16 in the MPR handbook is a good example of our situation)
The question is, since the existing grey concrete (which earned SSc7.1 under version 2.1) once again falls into our project boundary, are we supposed to count it toward the TOTAL non-roof hardscape surfaces?
If we do indeed have to add it to the total non-roof hardscape surfaces, we still arent allowed to add it to the qualifying reflective surfaces, thus it would actually hurt our percentage of reflective surfaces on-site, even though it was orginally a high-albedoAlbedo is synonymous with solar reflectance. surface meant to minimize heat islands. We would lose our credit this time around for something that previously qualified for that same credit.
Has anyone run into this type of situation before? What did you do?
Mike,
Are you adding new hardscape or new parking to the site area of the addition? If you are then you should only include that area that is being added as being part of this credit and as the only hardscape on the site. The previously developedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development." hardscape will not be counted at all, neither in the total hardscape area, or the area that has high albedoAlbedo is synonymous with solar reflectance..
If you are not adding new hardscape or new parking spaces, then you will not be able to pursue this credit.
Yes, we are adding new hardscape and new parking, all with high albedoAlbedo is synonymous with solar reflectance. concrete. I will only count those areas of new hardscape in the totals.
Thanks, Jacob!
A Strange Phenomenon with SSc7.1 Form
A Strange Phenomenon.
After filled the SSc7.1 Form and clicked the "Save Form" bottom, it displayed that "the Form has been Saved", whereas, when we returned to open the Form again, it became the original status...
We had tried many times, this problem did not happen while we filled other Forms.
Does anyone meet the same trouble?
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