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Why Framingham State Expanded Its Ballroom with Energy Efficiency in Mind

Framingham State University aimed to expand the Warren Conference Center with a new 10,800-square-foot ballroom, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainable design. Lavallee Brensinger Architects, led by project architect Jason Bennett, were tasked with incorporating a thermal break solution to maintain continuous insulation from the footing through the foundation slab to the masonry wall. This was essential for supporting the structural load while enhancing the building’s thermal performance.

How Armatherm 500-200 Solved the Continuous Insulation Challenge

The challenge was to ensure continuous insulation without compromising structural integrity. To address this, Armatherm 500-200 (UK equivalent 500 – 320) material was chosen for its superior load-bearing capacity and thermal performance. Positioned at the base of the brick wall, Armatherm 500-200 (UK equivalent 500 – 320) provided an uninterrupted thermal barrier. This material’s ease of use was noted by the masons, Marmelo Brothers, who found it straightforward to work with, thus streamlining the construction process and ensuring precise installation.

Framingham project featuring Armatherm solutions

The Results: Improved Efficiency and Streamlined Construction

Overall, the use of Armatherm 500-200 (UK equivalent 500 – 320 ) in the project not only helped achieve the desired energy efficiency goals but also facilitated a smoother construction process, contributing to the project’s sustainability and efficiency​​.

A worker cementing an area in a thermal break construction site.

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