Edgetech technical director to speak at Best2 Conference

With so much focus on U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient in the fenestration industry, little attention has been paid to the third thermal performance parameter: condensation resistance. According to Tracy Rogers, technical director for Edgetech I.G., Cambridge, Ohio, condensation can lead to health concerns and affect the integrity and long-term performance of building components. Rogers will present his findings at the Best2 Conference April 12-14, in Portland, Ore., according to a March 10 release.

Rogers’ technical paper titled Considerations for the Condensation Resistance of Fenestration Assemblies provides an in-depth look at U-factor and condensation resistance basics, system ratings for thermal performance and the relative effects of U-factor and condensation resistance using third-party data.

“Performance factors that may have a minimal impact on U-factor and/or SHGC may be critical in the prevention of condensation formation that may, if not controlled, lead to health concerns and building component or system damage,” Rogers said, in the release. “At the Best2 Conference, I will compare the difference between the performance of fenestration products relative to U-factor and condensation resistance and outline principal design features to improve the latter.”

The Best2 Conference is a three-day event hosted by the Building Enclosure Council in Portland. This year’s event will comprise three tracts: Energy Efficiency, Whole Building and Fenestration. Rogers will present his findings April 14 as part of the Fenestration tract.

According to third-party, independent testing, Edgetech’s Super Spacer provides the leading condensation resistance of any spacer in North America – up to 131 percent better than metal bar, according to the release.