How-to Guide:

Supporting Documentation

In Compliance with
2020 New York City Energy Conservation Code

▪ GENERAL
▪ BUILDING ENVELOPE
▪ MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
▪ LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER
▪ OTHER REQUIREMENTS

NOTE: In this How-To Guide: Supporting Documentation, selected Energy Code provisions have been generalized, summarized, rephrased, and/or highlighted. This guide is intended: 1) To
provide general guidance for the job applications seeking compliance with the 2020 NYCECC; 2) Not to replace or represent the entire 2020 NYCECC and related regulations of the City of New
York and the Department of Buildings; and 3) Not to provide complete compliance solutions for any particular type of job or work. Comprehensive mandates, applicability, exemptions, exceptions
and options will be found in the 2020 NYCECC and related regulations of the City of New York and the Department of Buildings.
OPAQUE ENVELOPE ASSEMBLIES
▪ Minimum R-value
- For each building envelope type (e.g., roof, above-grade/below-grade walls, floors over unconditioned space, etc.), its section detail R402.1.3
must indicate that the R-value of the insulation meets or exceeds the minimum allowed R-value prescribed for the envelope type C402.1.3
5.5.3
(e.g., R-values shown in Table C402.1.3).
- Specifically, in the assembly details, clearly call out each of the proposed insulation type, thickness and the manufacturer-
published R-value to satisfy the thermal requirements for the envelope assembly type.

▪ Maximum U-factor
- Alternatively, it must be demonstrated that the proposed assembly’s calculated U-factor (or C- or F-factor) value does not exceed R402.1.4
the maximum allowed U-factor value prescribed for the envelope type (e.g., U-factors shown in Table C402.1.4). C402.1.4
5.5.3
- Determination of an assembly’s overall U-factor (or C- or F-factor) value must be supported by the pre-calculated values or the
calculation methods established in Appendix A of ASHRAE 90.1-2016.
- Spandrel Panels are Opaque walls. Determination of effective U-factors for the proposed Spandrel Panels must follow Table
C402.1.4.2/ Table 5.5.3. See page [BE-9]. The proposed U-factor value identified from the Table must be compared against the
baseline U-factor of metal-framed walls (U-0.061) in COMcheck.

• NOTE: One common error in the U-factor

calculation is misrepresenting thermal
values of assembly layers (e.g., face
brick, gypsum board, air films, etc.) from
unapproved sources.

Figure BE-1. Sample Wall Assembly & Area-Weighted U-factor Calculation

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 1] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
WINDOWS & DOORS – FENESTRATION IN THE ENVELOPE
▪ U-factor and SHGC values
- For each fenestration type (e.g., fixed/operable window, skylight, exterior door, storefront, etc.), Assembly U-factor and Solar Heat R402.3
Gain Coefficient (SHGC) values must be specified in the window/door schedule on drawings, and must not exceed the maximum C402.4
5.5.4.3
allowed values. For Commercial building windows, the maximum assembly U-factors depend on the vertical location of the window 5.5.4.4
on the above-grade wall, with more stringent U-factors for windows installed below 95’ above-grade. See page [BE-3]. The 95’ 1 RCNY
demarcation line must be indicated on building elevation drawings for Commercial buildings. §5000-01
(g)(1)(i)
- Next to the U-factor and SHGC values specified in the schedule, provide the fenestration assembly manufacturer’s information (e.g.,
‘ABC Windows/xyz 9000 series, or Approved equal’) that will satisfy the U-factor and SHGC requirements.

▪ Air Leakage Rate and Visible Transmittance (VT)

- The window/door schedule on drawings must specify the air leakage rate of each proposed fenestration assembly type to R402.4
demonstrate that the air leakage of fenestration assemblies do not exceed the maximum allowed leakage rate. C402.5.2/ 5.4.3.2

- Where required, the window/door schedule must identify Visible Transmittance (VT) of the proposed glazed fenestration R303.1.3
products to meet the provisions in the applicable Code sections. C303.1.3/ C402.4.1
C405.2.3/ 5.5.4.6

WINDOW & DOOR SCHEDULE

FRAJE NOMINAL DIM. ASSEMBLY AIR LEAKAGE
TAG TYPE MANUFACTURER - MODEL NO. SHGC VT
MATERIAL (W X H) U-FACTOR RATE (CFM/SF)
ABC WINDOWS - D999 SERIES
W1 FIXED METAL 7'-0" X 7'-0" 0.28 0.34 0.50 0.16
OR APPROVED EQUAL
ABC WINDOWS -EF00 SERIES
W2 CASEMENT - OPERABLE METAL 4'-6" X 2'-3" 0.38 0.34 0.50 0.18
OR APPROVED EQUAL
SKL CORP. - GHT000 SERIES
SW1 SKYLIGHT METAL 2'-10" X 5'-2" 0.46 0.38 0.54 0.18
OR APPROVED EQUAL
STOREFRONT - FIXED VARIES; SEE A-301 ~305 GLD CO. - STR #Z111 OR
W5 METAL 0.30 0.34 0.50 0.05
GLAZING FOR LOCATIONS & DIM. APPROVED EQUAL
STOREFRONT - GLD CO. - STR #Z111 OR
D1 METAL 3'-0" X 7'-6" 0.70 0.36 0.52 0.80
ENTRANCE GLASS DOOR APPROVED EQUAL
OPAQUE SWINGING OPQ COMPANY RST-#22-33 OR
D2 METAL 3'-0" X 7'-0" 0.48 N/A N/A 0.80
DOOR APPROVED EQUAL
Figure BE-2. Sample Window & Door Schedule

• Fenestration U-factor values must be the ‘whole assembly’ U-factor, instead of ‘center-of-glass’ U-factor, and must be furnished by the manufacturer.
• Differentiate Fixed and Operable windows’ U-factor values in the window schedule where required, as the Code-prescribed maximum U-factors for
Fixed and Operable windows may vary depending on the referenced Code.

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 2] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
SPANDREL PANEL EFFECTIVE U-FACTORS
C402.1.4.2
5.5.3

• NOTE 1: To demonstrate compliance,

provide COMcheck envelope analysis by:

- entering the Proposed Spandrel panel U-

factor value identified from the Table
C402.1.4.2; and

- choosing the Baseline U-factor of metal-

framed walls (U-0.061).

• NOTE 2: If the Proposed Spandrel panel

type is not found in the Table – e.g.,
Assembly with backpans, Assembly with no
insulation – THERM Analysis must be
performed and documented on drawings.

Info for THERM is found in the link below.

https://windows.lbl.gov/software/therm
COMMERCIAL BUILDING FENESTRATION MAXIMUM U-FACTORS
C402.4
5.5.4.3

• NOTE: Where any portion of the

window unit is installed above 95’
above-grade, U-factor requirement
of 95’ and above may apply.

See Table 5.5-4 for ASHRAE-following job applications.

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 3] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
CONTINUOUS INSULATION
▪ Balconies and Parapets
C402.2.9
Balconies and Parapets that interrupt the building thermal envelope are required to be: 5.5.3.7
a) Insulated with continuous insulation of a minimum R-value for the wall assembly as listed in Table C402.1.3/ Table 5.5-4. OR
b) Insulated with a minimum R-3 thermal break where the structural element penetrates the building thermal envelope.

• NOTE: Compliance with the

continuous insulation
requirements on balconies and
parapets does not relieve
compliance requirements of
other applicable Construction
Codes. For example, BC Chapter
16 and Chapter 33 requirements
must be met for parapets in case
of future C-hooks/ clamps use on
the parapet walls. To report R-value of Parapet as a Roof component
in COMcheck Envelope Analysis, click Here.

To report R-value of Balcony slab as a Wall

component in COMcheck Envelope Analysis,
refer to [BE- 11].

a) COMPLIANT with C402.2.9/ 5.5.3.7 b) NOT COMPLIANT with C402.2.9/ 5.5.3.7

Figure BE-4. Examples of Balcony and Parapet Insulation

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 4] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
FENESTRATION AREA
The Window-to-Wall Ratio (WWR) -- the ratio (%) of vertical fenestration area to gross above-grade wall area (or gross wall area for
Appendix CA applications) -- must be noted on an EN- labeled drawing in conjunction with building envelope diagrams and the
envelope energy analysis. The building envelope diagrams must list all opaque wall areas and vertical fenestration areas per each
building orientation. The area values of each opaque wall type and fenestration type listed in the envelope diagrams must match
the values entered in the envelope energy analysis (e.g., ‘Gross Area’ values in COMcheck).

▪ Maximum Vertical Fenestration Area (when following ECC)

- Maximum WWR: 30% C402.4.1

- Maximum WWR: 40% permitted with certain requirements including daylight responsive controls
- When WWR > 40%: ASHRAE must be chosen as Code Compliance Path, as ECC does not allow WWR > 40%.

▪ Maximum Vertical Fenestration Area (when following ASHRAE)

- Maximum WWR: 40% 5.5.4.2.1

- When WWR > 40%: Energy Code compliance may be demonstrated through either
a) COMcheck (with envelope tradeoff) envelope analysis, or
b) Energy Modeling (total building performance) energy analysis.

▪ Maximum Skylight Fenestration Area

- Maximum skylight fenestration area: 3% of the gross roof area C402.4.1
5.5.4.2.2
- Maximum skylight fenestration area: 6% of the gross roof area permitted with daylight responsive controls

▪ Minimum Skylight Fenestration Area

- For an enclosed space • ≥ 2,500 sf, and directly under a roof with ceiling height > 15’ and
C402.4.2
• of space types including office, lobby, atrium, concourse, corridor, warehouse storage, among others 5.5.4.2.3
Minimum skylight fenestration area requirement: Minimum 3% of the gross roof area, or
Minimum 1% ‘Skylight Effective Aperture’
- See Section C402.4.2 and 5.5.4.2.3 for complete applicable space types, minimum total daylight area requirement, and
definition of ‘Skylight Effective Aperture.’

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 5] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
AIR BARRIER
▪ Continuous Air Barrier
To ensure air barrier continuity in the building thermal envelope, drawings must specify required continuous air barrier construction C402.5.1
measures (Section C402.5.1.1), and indicate that the continuous air barrier shall be achieved by either 5.4.3.1.2
5.4.3.1.3
1) Materials not exceeding maximum allowed air permeability (Section C402.5.1.2.1), or
2) Assemblies not exceeding allowed maximum air leakage (Section C402.5.1.2.2).

▪ Openings in the Building Envelope

Drawings must identify specific construction measures, configuration, devices and/or performance standards to limit air leakage C402.5/5.4.3.1.1
in particular envelope areas including, but not limited to, the following:
1) Fenestration and doors: Maximum allowed air leakage. C402.5.2/5.4.3.2
2) Outdoor air intakes and exhaust openings: Motorized Shutoff dampers are required unless gravity dampers are allowed. C402.5.5/6.4.3.4
3) Doors/Access Openings to shafts, chutes, vents, stairways and elevator lobbies: Gasketing, weatherstripping, and sealing. C402.5.4/5.4.3.1.2
4) Loading dock: Weatherseals to restrict infiltration. C402.5.6/5.4.3.3
5) Vestibules*: Plan configuration and self-closing devices on doors. C402.5.7/5.4.3.4
* Note that Air Curtains are NO longer an acceptable alternative. C402.5.8/5.4.3.1.1
6) Recessed lighting: Luminaires installed in building envelope must be:
a) IC-rated, b) Labeled with the Code-prescribed maximum air leakage rate, and c) Sealed with gasket or caulk.

Figure BE-6.
A Sample Acceptable Plan with Specific Notes Requiring Future Compliance

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 6] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
AIR LEAKAGE/BARRIER TESTING & AIR BARRIER CONTINUITY PLAN – NEW BUILDINGS
Drawings must specify mandatory air barrier testing/inspection requirements specific to the building type.

▪ Residential Buildings – See R202 for the definition of Residential Building 1 RCNY §5000-01 (g)(5)(iv)
Building Types Required Testing/Inspection Required Progress Inspections Reference Code
• New buildings with 1 dwelling unit (A) AND (B) IA6 AND IA7 R402.4.1.2
• New buildings with dwelling units ≥ 2 (A) AND (B) or (C) IA6 AND IA7 R402.4.1.3
• New buildings with dwelling units ≥ 8 (A) AND (B) or (D) IA6 AND IA7 R402.4.1.3.1
(A) Visual Inspection of Air Barrier
Visual inspection of openings and penetrations in the building envelope, including site-built fenestration and doors to verify continuous air barrier installation
(B) Whole Building Air Leakage Testing [maximum 3 ACH]
Testing conducted at a pressure differential of 50 Pascals must verify that the Building air leakage rate does not exceed 3 air changes per hour (3 ACH).
(C) Air Leakage Testing of ALL “Testing Units”
Testing conducted at a pressure differential of 50 Pascals must verify that the air leakage rate of EACH testing unit does not exceed 0.3 cfm/sf of the testing unit
envelope.
(D) Air Leakage Testing of SAMPLE “Testing Units”
Testing conducted at a pressure differential of 50 Pascals must verify that the air leakage rate of EACH Sample testing unit does not exceed 0.3 cfm/sf of the testing
unit envelope. SAMPLE Testing Unit selection must follow the code provision.

▪ Commercial Buildings – See C202 for the definition of Commercial Building 1 RCNY §5000-01 (g)(5)(iv)
Building types Required Testing/Inspection Required Progress Inspections Reference code
• New buildings with conditioned space < 10,000 sf (A) IIA6 1 RCNY §5000-01
(g)(5)(iv)
5.9
• New buildings with conditioned space ≥ 10,000 sf and < 50,000 sf, and (A) AND (E) IIA6 AND IIA7 C402.5.1.3
Height ≤ 75’ 5.4.3.1.3
5.9
• R-2 occupancy Only: New Buildings with conditioned space ≥ 10,000 sf and < (A) AND (E) or (D) IIA6 AND IIA7 C402.5.1.3
50,000 sf, and Height ≤ 75’ 5.4.3.1.3
5.9
• New buildings with conditioned space ≥ 10,000 sf and < 50,000 sf, and (A) AND (F) or (D) or (E) IIA6 AND IIA8 or IIA7 C402.5.1.3
Height > 75’ 5.4.3.1.3
5.9
• New buildings with conditioned space ≥ 50,000 sf
• R-3 occupancy Only: all New Buildings (A) AND (B) or (C) IIA6 AND IIA7 C401.2.1
(E) Whole Building Air Leakage Testing [maximum 0.4 cfm/sf]
Testing conducted at a pressure differential of 75 Pascals must verify that the Building air leakage rate does not exceed 0.4 cfm/sf of the building envelope.
(F) Testing/Inspection conducted per Air Barrier Continuity (ABC) Plan
Air Barrier Continuity Plan must be developed to specify the below.
- List (Schedule of Details) of each unique assembly, joint, seam and penetration, keyed to building thermal/air boundary section diagrams (on Architectural Plans)
- Testing/Inspection standards (e.g., ASTM E1186) and performance criteria for each assembly, joint, seam and penetration type (on Architectural Plans)
- Specifications of sealing (continuity-ensuring) materials/measures, and Remediation procedures
- Sampling protocol, if applicable, and Test reporting/submittal guidelines
ABC Plan, and Final Reports of Testing/Inspection conducted per the ABC Plan shall be provided to DOB upon request.

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 7] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
AIR LEAKAGE/BARRIER TESTING & AIR BARRIER CONTINUITY PLAN -- ADDITIONS & ALTERATIONS
Drawings must specify mandatory air barrier testing/inspection requirements specific to the building type.

▪ Residential Buildings – See R202 for the definition of Residential Building 1 RCNY §5000-01 (g)(5)(iv), R502, R503
Building Types Required Testing/Inspection Required Progress Inspections Reference Code
• Any Additions (A) IA6 R402.4.1.
• Alterations to the existing building envelope
• Additions thermally isolated from the existing building envelope (A) AND (B) IA6 AND IA7 R402.4.1.2
• Alterations of the entire existing building envelope including air barrier
• Additions with dwelling units ≥ 2 (A) AND (B) or (C) IA6 AND IA7 R402.4.1.3
• Additions with dwelling units ≥ 8 (A) AND (B) or (D) IA6 AND IA7 R402.4.1.3.1
(A) Visual Inspection of Air Barrier
Visual inspection of openings and penetrations in the building envelope, including site-built fenestration and doors to verify continuous air barrier installation
(B) Whole Building Air Leakage Testing [maximum 3 ACH]
Testing conducted at a pressure differential of 50 Pascals must verify that the Building air leakage rate does not exceed 3 air changes per hour (3 ACH).
(C) Air Leakage Testing of ALL “Testing Units”
Testing conducted at a pressure differential of 50 Pascals must verify that the air leakage rate of EACH testing unit does not exceed 0.3 cfm/sf of the testing unit
envelope.
(D) Air Leakage Testing of SAMPLE “Testing Units”
Testing conducted at a pressure differential of 50 Pascals must verify that the air leakage rate of EACH Sample testing unit does not exceed 0.3 cfm/sf of the testing
unit envelope. SAMPLE Testing Unit selection must follow the code provision.

▪ Commercial Buildings – See C202 for the definition of Commercial Building 1 RCNY §5000-01 (g)(5)(iv), C502, C503
Building types Required Testing/Inspection Required Progress Inspections Reference code
• Additions with conditioned space < 10,000 sf (A) IIA6 1 RCNY §5000-01
• Alterations to the existing building envelope (g)(5)(iv), C503.3
• Additions with conditioned space ≥ 10,000 sf and < 50,000 sf, & Height ≤ 75’ (A) AND (E) IIA6 AND IIA7 C402.5.1.3
• Alterations of the entire existing building envelope including air barrier 5.4.3.1.3
• R-2 occupancy Only: Additions with conditioned space ≥ 10,000 sf and < (A) AND (E) or (D) IIA6 AND IIA7 C402.5.1.3
50,000 sf, and Height ≤ 75’ 5.4.3.1.3
• Additions with conditioned space ≥ 10,000 sf and < 50,000 sf, & Height > 75’ (A) AND (F) or (D) or (E) IIA6 AND IIA8 or IIA7 C402.5.1.3
• Additions with conditioned space ≥ 50,000 sf 5.4.3.1.3
• R-3 occupancy Only: Additions thermally isolated from the existing building (A) AND (B) or (C) IIA6 AND IIA7 C401.2.1
envelope
(E) Whole Building Air Leakage Testing [maximum 0.4 cfm/sf]
Testing conducted at a pressure differential of 75 Pascals must verify that the Building air leakage rate does not exceed 0.4 cfm/sf of the building envelope.
(F) Testing/Inspection conducted per Air Barrier Continuity (ABC) Plan
Air Barrier Continuity Plan must be developed to specify the below.
- List (Schedule of Details) of each unique assembly, joint, seam and penetration, keyed to building thermal/air boundary section diagrams (on Architectural Plans)
- Testing/Inspection standards (e.g., ASTM E1186) and performance criteria for each assembly, joint, seam and penetration type (on Architectural Plans)
- Specifications of sealing (continuity-ensuring) materials/measures, and Remediation procedures
- Sampling protocol, if applicable, and Test reporting/submittal guidelines
ABC Plan, and Final Reports of Testing/Inspection conducted per the ABC Plan shall be provided to DOB upon request.

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 8] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
THERMAL BRIDGES IN BUILDING ENVELOPE
1 RCNY §5000-01
▪ Documentation of Thermal Bridges (g)(1)(iii)
R402.6
- Architectural plan set drawings must report all thermal bridges in the building thermal envelope in three categories below. C402.6
- Documentation requirements apply to Residential and Commercial buildings for all New buildings, Additions, and Alterations to the 5.4.4
building envelope work scope.
Category CLEAR FIELD Thermal Bridge POINT Thermal Bridge LINEAR Thermal Bridge
Definition Area-based thermal transmittance Element-based thermal transmittance Length-based thermal transmittance
associated with elements of a building associated with a discrete element that associated with horizontal, vertical, or
envelope assembly which repeat at penetrates the building envelope. diagonal elements within the building
regular intervals. envelope
Point thermal transmittance is heat flow
Most clear field thermal bridges are divided by the temperature difference Linear thermal transmittance is heat
taken into account in the assembly types between the interior and exterior sides flow divided by length and by the
found in ASHRAE 90.1-2016 Appendix A. of the assembly, represented by a Χ- temperature difference between the
value (Chi-Value) in units Btu/hr•°F. interior and exterior sides of the
assembly, represented by a Ψ-value (Psi-
Value) in units Btu/hr•ft•°F.
Typical Wall assembly with metal studs, or brick A beam penetrating a wall, Balcony, Floor, Fenestration perimeter
Assemblies ties, or z-girts A column penetrating a roof or floor, transition, Parapet, Floor slab edge,
An anchor or connection used to attach Shelf angle
an element to the building
Sample
Illustration

Documentation - List of CLEAR FIELD Thermal Bridges - List of POINT Thermal Bridges ≥ 8 in2 - List of LINEAR Thermal Bridges
Requirements - How they are entered in Envelope for Residential buildings, and ≥ 12 in2 - Ψ-value of each thermal bridge type
on Architectural energy analysis for Commercial buildings and its source
Plan Set - Reference section detail locations - Size and quantity of each thermal - Total length of each thermal bridge
bridge type - How they are entered in Envelope
- Reference section detail locations energy analysis
- Reference section detail locations

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 9] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
[EXAMPLE] DOCUMENTATION OF THERMAL BRIDGES (REQUIRED IN ARCHITECTURAL PLANS)
CLEAR FIELD Thermal Bridges
CFTB.no Assembly/Thermal Bridge Description Assembly ID in Section Detail
Energy Analysis1 Location
CFTB.1 Concrete roof deck with R-33ci RF-1 A-502/4
CFTB.2 Concrete roof deck with R-30ci RF-2 A-502/5
CFTB.3 CMU wall, EIFS finish WT-1 A-501/1
CFTB.4 CMU wall, Metal panel cladding WT-2 A-501/2
CFTB.5 Spandrel wall – Aluminum frame w. thermal break, Single pane glass, Metal WT-3 A-508/4
panel
CFTB.6 Mass floor over parking garage FL-1 A-503/5
CFTB.7 Mass floor over unconditioned space at courtyard FL-2 A-503/6
1. Envelope COMcheck report on EN-004

POINT Thermal Bridges

PTB.no Assembly/Thermal Bridge Description Size Number of Section Detail
[sq. Occurrence Location
inches]
PTB.1 Structural beam penetration on walls @ courtyard 14 6 A-502/7
PTB.2 Structural column (pilotis) penetrating 2nd floor slab/soffit @ courtyard 21 4 A-504/1
PTB.3 Main entrance canopy structural member penetration on walls 9 2 A-504/2

LINEAR Thermal Bridges

LTB.no Type of Ψ- Value Ψ- Value Source/ Calculation Total Assembly ID in Section Detail
Thermal Bridge [Btu/hr•ft•°F] Length [ft] Energy Analysis1 Location
LTB.1 Parapet 0.42 Default value from Table C402.6 284 n/a A507/1
LTB.2 Balcony 0.45 Ψ- Value of better performing details 34 WT-B A507/7
per BC Hydro Building Envelope
Thermal Bridging Guide v.1.2
LTB.3 Floor Slab 0.44 Default value from Table C402.6 72 WT-SE1 A507/2
Edge-1
LTB.4 Floor Slab 0.40 Ψ- Value of better performing details 21 WT-SE2 A507/3
Edge-2 per BC Hydro Building Envelope
Thermal Bridging Guide v.1.2
LTB.5 Fenestration 0.32 Default value from Table C402.6 617 n/a A702/1, A702/2,
Perimeter A702/5, A702/6
LTB.6 Shelf Angle 0.41 Default value from Table C402.6 65 n/a A508/2, A508/3
1. Envelope COMcheck report on EN-004

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 10] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
DOCUMENTING THERMAL BRIDGES IN BALCONY SLAB

Figure BE-11.
Sample Balcony Edge Details &
Matching Envelope COMcheck Reports

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 11] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
BUILDING ENVELOPE TRADEOFFS
When not all building envelope components individually could meet the prescriptive minimum insulation requirements, compliance
with ECC Envelope provisions could be demonstrated through Envelope Tradeoffs.

▪ Trade-Offs for Residential Buildings – Total UA Alternative

- To accomplish compliance with ECC Envelope provisions through Envelope Tradeoffs, Residential building envelope components R402.1.5
must demonstrate that:
Total building thermal envelope UA < Total UA resulting from the Code-prescriptive U-factors
(Sum of Assembly area x its U-factor) (Sum of Assembly area x Code U-factor value for the assembly type)
- Compliance could be verified by the REScheck envelope energy analysis by entering all building envelope components’ varying
thermal values.

▪ Trade-Offs for Commercial Buildings – Component Performance Alternative [following ECC]

– Buildings Envelope Trade-Off Option [following ASHRAE]
- To accomplish compliance with ECC Envelope provisions through Envelope Tradeoffs, Commercial building envelope components C402.1.5
must satisfy the formula in C402.1.5 for ECC, and the provision in 5.6.1.b for ASHRAE (calculation per Appendix C of ASHRAE). 5.6

- Compliance could be verified by the COMcheck envelope energy analysis by entering all building envelope components’ varying
thermal values.

Figure BE-12.
Sample Slab Edge Detail &
Matching Envelope COMcheck Report

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 12] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
EQUIPMENT PENETRATIONS IN BUILDING ENVELOPE
▪ Calculation of Equipment Penetration Areas
When mechanical equipment listed in Table C403.3.2(3) or Table 6.8.1-4 are proposed in a New Commercial building application: C402.1.4.2
5.5.3
- Drawings must identify the calculated total area of the equipment penetrations in the opaque above-grade walls by the supporting
diagrammatic building elevations.
- Drawings must also identify the percentage of the total equipment penetration area out of the total opaque above-grade wall area.

▪ U-factor 0.5 for Penetration Areas > 1% of Opaque Walls

- If the total area of penetrations from mechanical equipment specified above exceeds 1% of the total opaque above-grade wall C402.1.4.2
area, the equipment penetration area must be identified as a separate wall assembly with a default U-factor of 0.5. C402.1.5
5.6.1.1
- Accordingly, in the envelope energy analysis (e.g., Component performance alternative calculation, COMcheck, or Energy Modeling)
the total equipment penetration area must be entered as a separate exterior wall type of proposed U-factor 0.5 and budget U-
factor identical to the surrounding wall.

Figure BE-13.
Sample Envelope COMcheck report with
Equipment Penetration Area entered as a separate opaque wall type

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 13] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
FUEL-BURNING APPLIANCES
▪ Thermally Isolated and Insulated Rooms
When open combustion air ducts provide combustion air to open combustion fuel-burning appliances (e.g., natural draft boilers or R402.4.4
furnaces) in a room, the room must be thermally isolated from the building it serves, and sealed and insulated to meet the C402.5.3
requirements of Table R402.1.2, Table C402.1.3 or C402.1.4.

▪ Direct Vent Appliances

If the fuel-burning appliances are to be located in a room within the building thermal envelope, the appliances must be identified as R402.4.4
direct vent appliances with both intake and exhaust pipes installed continuous to the outside. C402.5.3

▪ Fireplaces with Tight-fitting Doors or Dampers

Fireplaces or fireplace units that are designed to allow an open burn must be specified with tight-fitting flue dampers or tight-fitting R402.4.2
doors labeled with applicable Code-required UL listings. C402.2.8

Figure BE-14. A direct-vent sealed-combustion furnace with dedicated pipes for combustion air and exhaust installed continuous to the outside
Source: basc.pnnl.gov/images

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 14] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
FENESTRATION ORIENTATION – ASHRAE-ONLY, PRESCRIPTIVE1 REQUIREMENTS
▪ The Vertical Fenestration on the West- and East-Oriented Walls
(must comply with either A or B below)

A) Limiting Fenestration Area 5.5.4.5

West-oriented vertical fenestration area must be ≤ 1/4 of the Total vertical fenestration area,
and
East-oriented vertical fenestration area must be ≤ 1/4 of the Total vertical fenestration area.

B) Limiting SHGC Values 5.5.4.5

West-oriented vertical fenestration area x SHGC for West-oriented fenestration must be ≤
1/4 of the Total vertical fenestration area x Code-prescribed maximum SHGC for Climate Zone 4a (from Table 5.5-4),
and
East-oriented vertical fenestration area x SHGC for East-oriented fenestration must be ≤
1/4 of the Total vertical fenestration area x Code-prescribed maximum SHGC for Climate Zone 4a (from Table 5.5-4).

1. Prescriptive requirements MUST be met when

Prescriptive energy analysis method (e.g., Tabular
analysis) is chosen to demonstrate Energy Code
compliance. If COMcheck or Energy Modeling is
used for the energy analysis, the software program
automatically takes into account the vertical
fenestration areas and SHGC values on the west
and east-oriented wall in its computation.

Figure BE-15.
Buildings on Manhattan’s grid ± 29°off of true north are likely
to have no West-oriented vertical fenestration

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 15] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING ENVELOPE
▪ Blown or Sprayed Roof/Ceiling Insulation
- The thickness of blown-in or sprayed roof/ceiling insulation (fiberglass or cellulose) in the attic must be indicated on markers for R303.1.1.1
every 300 sf.
- The markers must indicate minimum initial installed thickness with numbers of a minimum of 1 inch in height.

▪ Protection of Exposed Foundation Insulation

Rigid, opaque and weather-resistant protective coverings must be applied to protect the insulation over the exterior of basement R303.2.1
walls, crawl space walls and the perimeter of slab-on-grade floors.

▪ Slab-on-Grade Floor Insulation at the Perimeter

- Slab-on-grade floors with a floor surface < 12” below-grade must be insulated at the slab perimeter with minimum R-10. For R402.2.10
Heated slab floors on-grade, R-10 insulation must be provided under the full heated slab area in addition to the required slab
perimeter insulation of minimum R-10.
- The insulation must be extended downward or horizontally (as shown in the Figures below) a minimum of 4’ for Climate Zone 4A.
- Insulation extending away from the building must be protected by pavement or by minimum 10” of soil.

▪ Insulation at Tenant Separation Walls

Fire-separated walls between dwelling units in two-family houses or townhouses must be insulated at a minimum R-value of R-10. R402.4.6

Figure BE-16.a.
Protection of Insulation Over the Grade Beam
Source: basc.pnnl.gov/images

Figure BE-16.b.
Slab Insulation Methods
Source: basc.pnnl.gov/images

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 16] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING ENVELOPE
▪ Insulation in Ceilings
- Ceiling with Attic Spaces: Minimum R-49; or Uncompressed R-38 covering 100% of ceiling and extended over the wall top plate at R402.2.1
the eaves (See Figures below). R402.2.2

- Ceiling without Attic Spaces: When installation of required minimum R-49 insulation in 100% of the ceiling is unachievable, R-30
insulation is allowed for a maximum 500 sf or maximum 20% of the total insulated ceiling area, whichever is less. If partial R-30
insulation is proposed, provide roof area calculations with roof plan diagrams.

▪ Access Hatches and Doors

Access doors to unconditioned spaces such as attics and crawl spaces must be weatherstripped and insulated to a level equivalent R402.2.4
to the insulation on the surrounding surfaces (e.g., adjacent ceiling surface).

▪ Sunroom Insulation and Fenestration

- Sunrooms enclosing conditioned space must meet the Residential building envelope insulation and fenestration requirements. R402.2.13
R402.3.5
- Sunrooms with thermal isolation and enclosing conditioned space must meet the following insulation and fenestration
requirements:
▪ Ceiling Insulation: Min. R-19
▪ Wall Insulation: Min. R-13
▪ Vertical Fenestration: Max. U-0.45
▪ Skylight: Max. U-0.70
- Conditioned space with thermal isolation must be controlled as a separate zone for heating and cooling, or conditioned by
separate equipment.

Figure BE-17.a. Figure BE-17.b.

Raised-Heel Truss (achieving Energy Truss) Access Hatch Properly Insulated
Source: basc.pnnl.gov/images Source: basc.pnnl.gov/images

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 17] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS
ADDITIONAL ENVELOPE REQUIREMENTS – ENERGY MODELED JOBS PER ASHRAE SECTION 11 OR APPENDIX G
For new buildings ≥ 25,000 sf and Energy-modeled per the Energy Cost Budget Method (Section 11) or the Performance Rating 1RCNY §5000-
Method (Appendix G), the building envelope must satisfy one of the following compliance options. 01 (f)

▪ Prescriptive Compliance - Section 5.5, “Prescriptive Building Envelope Option” 5.2.3.a

- All building envelope components in the Architectural Plans must demonstrate compliance with Section 5.5.
- Tabular analysis must be submitted in an EN- sheet listing both proposed envelope thermal performance values and code-
prescriptive values of the entire building envelope components.

▪ Envelope Performance Factor Compliance 5.2.3.b

- The proposed building’s Envelope Performance Factor in accordance with Appendix C of ASHRAE must be calculated through
COMcheck Envelope energy analysis.
- To demonstrate compliance, the COMcheck Envelope report must indicate that:
a) For Multifamily, hotel/motel and dormitory building types:
The proposed envelope design does not exceed the allowable margin of - 15% in the performance factor.
b) For all Other building types:
The proposed envelope design does not exceed the allowable margin of - 7% in the performance factor.
c) For Mixed-Use building types:
The proposed envelope design does not exceed the allowable margin, determined from the area-weighted average of the gross
wall area, auto-calculated by COMcheck.
- To start this COMcheck Envelope analysis, choose ‘2020 NYCECC Appendix CA Modeling Envelope Backstop” under the Code tab.

• Example of COMcheck Envelope analysis results appearing

in the compliance bar at the bottom of the analysis:

“Qualifies for 2020 NYCECC, App. CA Modeling: Envelope

design ‐12% (allowable margin = ‐15.0%)” or

“Qualifies for 2020 NYCECC, App. CA Modeling: Envelope

design ‐3% (allowable margin = ‐11.4%)” or

“FAILS to qualify for 2020 NYCECC, App. CA Modeling:

Envelope design ‐16% (allowable margin = ‐15.0%)”: Note
that this is NOT Compliant.

GENERAL BUILDING ENVELOPE [BE - 18] MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL POWER OTHER REQUIREMENTS