How Midwest Commercial Building Envelope Audits Can Help You Save Money
Building envelope audits are an essential component of cost efficient buildings. The building envelope plays a crucial role in regulating heat flow, air infiltration, and moisture transfer in and out of the building. A building envelope audit comprehensively evaluates a building's envelope to identify deficiencies and recommend solutions for increased energy efficiency. Tom Harris PUR Consulting LLC aims to help building owners reduce operational costs and reduce HVAC related carbon emissions with our building envelope audits for commercial and industrial buildings throughout the Midwest.
Stop Air Leaks & CO2 Emissions
One of the primary objectives of a building envelope audit is to inspect buildings for air leaks. Air leaks are a significant source of energy waste and can lead to increased heating and cooling costs. The audit will assess the building's HVAC system to determine the extent of air leakage and CO2 emissions. Once identified, the BEAT team will recommend solutions to reduce air infiltration, such as sealing cracks and gaps, caulking around windows and doors, and installing weather stripping.
Improve Insulation
Insulation is another critical component of a building envelope audit. Insulation can reduce operational costs and a building's carbon footprint by minimizing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. We will assess the building’s insulation levels and include insulation upgrade options in the final report. Other upgrades may include improving ductwork and installing high-efficiency windows.
Tax Credit
Building envelope audits can also help building owners take advantage of tax credits. The federal government offers a tax credit of up to $1.88 / sq ft of the cost of qualifying energy-efficient improvements, including insulation, windows, and doors. The auditor will provide a report detailing the recommended upgrades, estimated cost savings, and tax credits. With tax credits for qualifying upgrades, building owners can save money while reducing their carbon footprint.