Identification and Solutions

Barrier Sciences Group uses a science-based approach to provide customers with a menu of quality services.  Everything we do is rooted in ethical business practices, and our primary focus is always on our customer’s specific challenges and attendant remedies.

The BSG team consists of a group of experienced engineers, architectural technologists, energy auditors, and thermographers - all of them highly trained (and certified) and with a passion for enhancing the operational performance and energy profile of the building.

The BSG approach is comprehensive and methodical.  Our 8-point building performance analysis - investigation, assessment, recommendation, initialization, management, inspection, confirmation and testing - is based on proven methodology and years of experience.

Barrier Sciences Group is always on the lookout for new technologies and approaches.  And when it comes to building envelope deep energy retrofit and weatherization, the BSG team is at the forefront - with a solution-oriented approach that addresses the challenges.

For the BSG team, an integral component of investigation is effective information gathering.  The fact is, sound information always makes for better decision-making.  And with building  “systems”, it’s especially important, since there are always predictable and unpredictable impacts at play.  To precisely determine the effects of these impacts, BSG employs a 3 STEP building investigation that is systematic, yet flexible enough to explore all possibilities.

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Step 1

In-depth interviews are conducted with the building owner, building user, and relevant maintenance staff.  The BSG team assesses specific problems, and determines how they are impacting the building and the occupants.  Following the interview sessions, a building inspection is undertaken, which includes existing conditions and problem areas.  Based on all the data, BSG formulates a preliminary hypothesis.

Important to understand is that every building is a complex “system” – and the more BSG knows during an investigation, the better chance for credible decision-making.

Step 2

With a viable preliminary hypothesis established (Step 1), testing actions are expedited, with respect to the specific problems that have been highlighted.   At this stage, BSG will confirm the value of the initial hypothesis, or uncover other causal factors.  To ensure total accuracy, testing follows a proven format and established protocols.  Results from testing actions during Step 2 are used as a benchmark for future comparative testing.

Step 3

BSG staff compiles a report that reflects all of the investigative findings to date:  personal interviews; test results; field observations; and any other pertinent information.  It’s now up to senior BSG team members to assess and evaluate the report.  It’s also an opportunity to ensure that no member jumps to any conclusions, and avoids the tendency to engage in presumptuous decisions.  Decisions are made solely on reliable, verified information.

When it comes to solutions, the 3 STEP building investigation has been indispensable.  The BSG team has a solid foundation upon which to recommend results-oriented options.  And in southern Ontario, where weather conditions and seasonal climate fluctuate dramatically, BSG is tasked with providing solutions that work, both in the short term and the long run.

• Some common building envelope infiltration control methods include:
• Sealing up cracks, gaps, and holes around doors and windows - and sealing pipes and wiring that penetrate the ceiling and floor.
• Sealing recessed lighting fixtures and air ducts, which leak great amounts of air into un-conditioned attic and roof space.
• Installing and/or replacing dampers in exhaust ducts, to prevent the outside air from entering when exhaust fans are not in use.
• Providing the appropriate ventilation to unconditioned spaces to protect the building from the effects of unwanted condensation.
• Installing and/or repairing roofing, building wrap, siding, flashing, or skylights to ensure good condition and proper functioning.
• Installing insulation into walls, floors, and ceilings; around ducts and pipes; around water heaters; and near the foundation.
• Repairing weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows, but only replacing as a last resort.