CEM Building Envelope and Insulation

Question 1

What does the R-value of insulation measure?

Accepted Answer

Thermal resistance to heat flow in hr·ft²·°F/BTU

Answer

Thermal conductivity in BTU·in/(hr·ft²·°F)

Answer

Reflectivity of the insulation surface

Answer

Density of insulation material in lb/ft³

Question 2

The U-factor of a window assembly represents:

Accepted Answer

Overall heat transfer coefficient in BTU/(hr·ft²·°F)

Answer

Solar heat gain coefficient

Answer

Visible light transmittance

Answer

Air infiltration rate in CFM/ft²

Question 3

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of a window measures:

Accepted Answer

The fraction of incident solar radiation admitted through the window

Answer

How much heat the window frame conducts

Answer

The window's resistance to condensation

Answer

The visible light transmission of the glazing

Question 4

Air infiltration through a building envelope wastes energy primarily because:

Accepted Answer

Unconditioned outdoor air must be heated or cooled to maintain indoor comfort

Answer

It increases lighting loads by introducing outdoor humidity

Answer

It reduces the R-value of wall insulation permanently

Answer

It increases plug loads from appliances

Question 5

A blower door test is used to:

Accepted Answer

Quantify building envelope air leakage at a standardized pressure

Answer

Measure duct leakage in HVAC systems

Answer

Test fire door compliance

Answer

Measure indoor air quality and CO2 levels

Question 6

Thermal bridging through wall studs reduces effective wall R-value because:

Accepted Answer

Wood or metal studs conduct heat more readily than insulation, bypassing its resistance

Answer

Studs have higher R-value than insulation and over-insulate the wall

Answer

Studs prevent air infiltration and reduce convective losses

Answer

Thermal mass of studs stores and releases heat beneficially