Getting Started with the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings

This file contains last-minute product information, download and installation instructions, documentation updates and troubleshooting tips.

 

 

UPDATES

For the latest software, database, help file, sample, and other supporting documentation, please visit the Athena Institute website regularly at http://www.athenasmi.org/our-software-data/impact-estimator/

 

 

INSTALLATION AND SUPPORT

 

System Minimum Requirements:

 

Installation General Notes:

  1. For the easiest installation experience, quit any open programs, prior to installing the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings.
  2. If you are installing an update to the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings with a different architecture (e.g., 32-bit versus 64-bit), we recommend that you uninstall the previous release before installing the update. See below for more details on uninstalling software.
  3. We recommend restarting the computer after uninstalling an older version of the program.
  4. We recommend restarting the computer after installing the program.


Uninstalling an older version of the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings


Windows 7/8
  1. Click the "Start Button"
  2. Launch the "Control Panel" by clicking the "Control Panel" link.
  3. Click on the "Uninstall a Program" link in the "Programs" group. If you are using the "Classic View", click on the "Programs and Features" link.
  4. Right-click on the "Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings" link, then select the "Uninstall" option.
  5. Restart the computer.

Windows 10/11
  1. Right-Click the "Start Button"
  2. Click "Programs and Features"
  3. Click the "Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings" link
  4. Click the "Uninstall" button
  5. Restart the computer.

Manually Uninstall Impact Estimator for Buildings

If "Add/Remove Programs" was unsuccessful in completely removing the previous version of the Impact Estimator for Buildings from your computer, you may want to try to manually uninstall all traces of the program from your computer. This will involve editing your computer's Registry. Before you proceed, you must be aware that it can be very dangerous to edit your computer Registry. Click here to review the set of instructions that we have used for manually uninstalling the Impact Estimator for Buildings on both Windows XP and Vista computers.


Installing the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings


Windows 7/8/10/11
  1. Launch Windows Explorer and navigate to the folder where the ZIP file was downloaded.
  2. Extract the contents of the ZIP file.
  3. Enter the folder into which the ZIP file was extracted.
  4. Double-click the "setup.exe" file to launch the application installation program which will automatically request UAC (User Account Control) elevation and will ask for the "Administrator" password when using Windows 7 or better (if the user does not have administrator rights).

    Alternatively, you can manually launch the application installation program in an elevated state as follows:
    1. Right-click the "setup.exe" file
    2. Select "Run as Administrator"

  5. Follow the prompts to install the application.
  6. Restart the computer.
  7. Click the "Start" button, navigate to the "Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings" sub-menu and click the "Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings" link to launch the application.


Installing the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings in a Virtual Environment


Windows Server 2012 R2
  1. Launch Windows Explorer and navigate to the folder where the ZIP file was downloaded.
  2. Extract the contents of the ZIP file.
  3. Launch Control Panel (Right-click "Start" button, click "Control Panel")
  4. Click "Programs"
  5. Click "Install Application on Remote Desktop"
  6. Browse to the folder into which the ZIP file was extracted.
  7. Select the "setup.exe" file to launch the application installation program
  8. Follow the prompts to install the application.
  9. Restart the server.
  10. Click the "Start" button, navigate to the "Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings" sub-menu and click the "Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings" link to launch the application.

 

Software Registration:

The Impact Estimator for Buildings has been available for free download since version 4.2.

 

 

License Agreement:

Click here to review the License Agreement.

 

 

DOCUMENTATION

A Help system is installed with the application. Help topics can be searched from within the program. The web browser enabled version of the help system can be accessed by clicking here.

 

 

GENERAL PROGRAM NOTES

 

Microsoft® Windows Server 2012 R2 Notes:

  1. 32-Bit: The application has been tested on 64-Bit versions of Windows Server 2012 R2 running Remote Desktop Services (RDS).
  2. 64-Bit: The application has been tested on 64-Bit versions of Windows Server 2012 R2 running Remote Desktop Services (RDS).
  3. First Launch: When the application first launches for each user account using RDS, the application will attempt to create the Application User files in C:\Users\YourUserName\AppData\Roaming\Athena Institute\Impact Estimator for Buildings\. A User Account Control prompt might be displayed at this time requesting permission run the application. Click the "ALLOW" button to run the application, or "CANCEL" to quit.

 

Microsoft® Windows 11 Notes:

  1. 64-Bit: The application has been tested on 64-Bit versions of Windows 11.

Microsoft® Windows 10 Notes:

  1. 32-Bit: The application has been tested on 32-Bit versions of Windows 10.
  2. 64-Bit: The application has been tested on 64-Bit versions of Windows 10.

Microsoft® Windows 8 Notes:

  1. 32-Bit: The application has not been tested on 32-Bit versions of Windows 8.
  2. 64-Bit: The application has not been tested on 64-Bit versions of Windows 8.

Microsoft® Windows 7 Notes:

  1. 32-Bit: The application has not been tested on 32-Bit versions of Windows 7.
  2. 64-Bit: The application has not been tested on 64-Bit versions of Windows 7.
  3. User Account Control: For all types of Windows 7, if you have User Account Control turned on, when you launch the Athena® Impact Estimator for Buildings application, a User Account Control prompt might be displayed and you may be prompted to consent to running the application. Click the "ALLOW" button to run the application, or "CANCEL" to quit.

 

General Operating System Notes:

  1. The Impact Estimator will not run on Windows 3.1™ or MAC OS and has not been tested on Windows 95/98/2000/NT™. Starting with version 5.2, the application is no longer tested on Microsoft® Windows XP/Vista™.

    Mac users can now log on to the Athena server and run the software remotely. This turns the user’s Mac into an interface with the Athena system, providing seamless access to the Impact Estimator. This service is available at no cost. Click here to learn more.
  2. When copied and decompressed The Impact Estimator for Buildings takes up approximately 675 MB of disk space. Microsoft® 7/8/10/11 and 512 MB of RAM are the minimum hardware and software systems requirements.
  3. We assume you are familiar with the basic operation of Microsoft® Windows 7/8/10/11, such as opening files, saving files, and clicking on menu items. If not, please refer to your Windows 7/8/10/11 User’s Guide.

 

Previous Version Project File Incompatibility:

  1. Project files from previous versions may contain assemblies that have undergone significant restructuring. When such files are loaded, the original file is backed up, a detailed message is displayed to the user, and the changed assemblies are updated to be compatible with the most recent version.
  2. Project files from older Impact Estimator versions, including version 3.0.3, cannot be loaded into the current version of the tool.

 

 

KNOWN ISSUES

The following issues have been identified in the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings Version 5.5 Build 0113 as of its release in April 2025. For an up–to–date list, click here to visit the Life Cycle Assessment Software web site.

  1. All Forms - Forms do not accept numeric entries if the decimal symbol is a comma. (e.g., French Language numeric values). This will occur in the "Add Project" form, where the user may enter data into any of the input boxes, but will not be able to click the "OK" button to accept the new project. If the Regional and Language settings in the Windows Control Panel are set to a language such as French (Canada), where the decimal symbol is set as a comma, as opposed to a period, the forms in Impact Estimator will not validate properly, and an error will occur.
    Workaround:To work around this, open Regional and Language Options in the Control Panel, and either switch the format to English, or Customize the French format so that the decimal symbol is a period. After making the change, re-open Impact Estimator and proceed. Don't forget to switch the period back to a comma when you are finished working in the Impact Estimator.
  2. Report - Per Unit Area Graphs : For the Per Unit Area Graphs the displayed Area unit of measure (e.g., per m2 or per ft2) is not dependent on the Units for the projects being compared, since this could be a mix of SI and Imperial. Rather, the displayed units basis is determined by the "Default Units" selected in the "Tools -> Options" dialog.
  3. Reports : Occasionally when producing a report the following warning message will be displayed "We were unable to generate the requested report. Please try again." and the resulting report window will be blank. This is temporary, close the report window and try to create the report again and it should work the second time.
  4. Export may cause app to rescale : The main application may suddenly be rescaled (resized, changed font size) when exporting a BOM (Initial Quantities), BOM (Life Cycle Quantities) or Project Report to PDF and Word. This only happens if the Display Settings for the windows device on which the application is running has the Scale not equal to 100%. If you experience this issue, exit the application, check the Scale setting in the Display settings and change it to 100%, then restart the application and try again.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.5 Build 0113:

The following software hot fix has been made in Version 5.5, Build 0113, released in April 2025:

General Changes

  1. Added a code signing certificate: Starting with the v5.5.0112 release, a number of endpoint security solutions were identifying the setup_ie4b.exe file as containing malware. This was a false-positive traced back to the installation files not being signed using a code signing certificate. This version now has all installation (.exe, .msi, .cab) files signed using a code signing certificate.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.5 Build 0112:

The following software hot fix has been made in Version 5.5, Build 0112, released in March 2025:

General Changes

  1. Metals Module D calculations corrected: There were two issues with the calculation methodology. First, the calculation was double counting the effects, this by far had the bigger effect on the Module D results, this has been corrected. The second was that the end of life scrap values were underestimated by the construction waste factor, resulting in smaller module D results. The scrap values offset the double counting somewhat, but in general, the module D effects are now 45-50% of what they were previously, whether as a credit (negative module D value) or as a burden (positive module D value).
  2. Seismic effects of steel stud walls corrected: Adjustments of galvanized steel in steel stud wall assemblies in seismic zones was being doubled by adding the same amount as spandrel panel. This has a minimal effect on the BOM and results and has been corrected.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.5 Build 0111:

The following software hot fix has been made in Version 5.5, Build 0111, released in November 2024:

General Changes

  1. Steel data update: For fabricated steel materials, the fabrication scrap factors in A1-A3 were not being applied, this has been corrected. A1-A3 results in the product stage will increase (approximately) for:
    • Hollow Structural Steel by 8%
    • Open Web Steel Joists by 2%
    • Steel Tubing by 10%
    • Welded Wire Mesh by 2%
    • Galvanized Studs by 1%
    • Galvanized Decking by 1%
    • Nails by 2%
    • Screws Nuts & Bolts and Bolts, Fasteners, Clips by 9%

      Note: Semi finished steel product (WF Sections, Rebar, Hot Rolled Sheet, Cold Rolled Sheet, Galvanized Sheet, Steel Plate and Wire Rod) profiles do not have a fabrication scrap factor and are not affected by this update.

  2. Steel Plate and Wire Rod re-enabled in Extra Materials: Steel Plate and Wire Rod semi finished steel products are enabled as Extra Materials. Being semi finished products not used by any assembly, they had been disabled in v5.5, but have now been re-enabled.
  3. Rebar Module D factor corrected: The Module D factor for Rebar, Rod, Light Sections was being overestimated by approximately 45%, this has been corrected. The semi-finished Rebar profile is the basis for Welded Wire Mesh, Nails, Wire Rod, Screws Nuts & Bolts, and Bolts, Fasteners, Clips, those materials will see similar decreases in Module D.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.5 Build 0110:

The following software hot fix has been made in Version 5.5, Build 0110, released in April 2024:

General Changes

  1. Assembly Group Per Unit Area Comparison Graphs: Per Unit Area Graphs by Assembly Group (only) were reporting values 10.764 times too large (the conversion factor from m2 to ft2). This has been corrected. The same Life Cycle Stage Graphs were reporting correctly and are unchanged.
  2. BOM By Assembly Reports Export to Excel: In File>Export BOM By Assembly to Excel reports, for both Initial and Life Cycle Quantities, when exported in Imperial units, were reporting the SI unit instead of the Imperial unit, this has been corrected. The quantities were correctly converted to Imperial, only the unit was wrongly showing the SI unit. The mass units are showing correctly (Tons(short)) and the masses are correctly converted, and remain unchanged. The SI exports are reporting the correct units and remain unchanged. This bug did not affect Bill of Materials by Assembly when viewed on screen through Reports>Bill of Materials by Assembly.
  3. Conversion from m2 to sf adjusted: There were two existing conversion factors from square meters (m2) to square feet (sf), 10.764 and 10.76391. 10.764 was used in the majority of the code, so the latter was changed to 10.764. The effects of this change are minimal and may affect some results (such as the Gross Floor Area) to several decimal points only when the conversion is performed, in the order of 0.001%.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.5 Build 0109:

The following software hot fix has been made in Version 5.5, Build 0109, released in February 2024:

General Changes

  1. Custom Concrete Calcination: Calcination results for custom concretes (including CAN and USA benchmark mixes) were showing 0 values, that has been corrected. Note that the Calcination portion of GWP is extracted and displayed for information only, but Calcination effects are and have been included in the GWP results, so GWP results will not change from previous versions. No changes were made to concrete blocks and brick, precasts, mortar and grouts.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.5 Build 0108:

The following software hot fix has been made in Version 5.5, Build 0108, released in December 2023:

General Changes

  1. Envelopes: Extruded Polystyrene-Wall (HFO 2021) and Extruded Polystyrene-Roof (HFO 2021) selections were not available in envelopes, that has been corrected. They were available in Extra Materials and continue to be so. No changes to the background data.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.5 Build 0107:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.5, Build 0107, released in December 2023:

General Changes

  1. Per Unit Area Graphs: A bug was fixed where results in per ft2 graphs were not being calculated correctly. Per m2 graphs are unchanged.
  2. Doors Sizes: Doors can now be modeled with variable heights and widths.
  3. Material Base Units: Change Non SI base units to SI Base units. Users will not notice the change, but several materials with Imperial base units have been updated to SI units and their data updated to reflect the changes. Also, structural calculations that use these materials have been updated to the new units. For example, lumber was previously based on a thousand board feet (Mbfm) unit, and it has been changed to m3. Plywood and OSB have been changed from 1000 ft2 (msf on a 3/8" basis) to m2 (on a 9mm basis). The roofing materials have been changed from a Square (100sf) to m2.
  4. ICF Walls: Insulated Concrete Form wall insulation has been changed from Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) to Expanded Polystyrene (EPS).
  5. Door and Curtain Wall Glazing: The material Glazing Panel (tonnes) has been discontinued and has been replaced with Double Glazed Soft Coated Argon (m2) in Curtain Wall and Doors.
  6. Curtain Wall Insulation: The spandrel panel insulation has been changed from Fiberglass Batt to Mineral Wool Batt (medium density)
  7. Biogenic and Calcination GWP: Biogenic GWP and Calcination GWP included in GWP total and reported separately in LCA Results tables.
  8. Biogenic GWP: Biogenic GWP calculations removed from Module and reported in A1-A3, A5 and C3-C4 as per ISO 21930.
  9. LCI Tables Discontinued: LCI tables (Energy Consumption, Air Emissions, Water Emissions, Land Emissions, Resource Use) are no longer available to view or export.
  10. New Bill of Materials by Assembly: A new Bill of Materials by Assembly is available. This is meant as helper in the upcoming IE4B web application BOM import.

Database Changes

  1. Updated data: Electricity data updated to Ecoinvent 3.8 profiles for Canadian provinces and US NERC regions
  2. Updated data: Portland Cement - updated US to 2020 PCA LCA data and Canada to 2023 CAC LCA data
  3. Updated data: Portland Lime Cement - updated US to 2020 PCA LCA data, and Canada to regional 2023 CAC LCA data
  4. Updated data: Mortar - updated profiles with new US and Canadian Cement profiles
  5. Updated data: Grout-Fine - updated profiles with new US and Canadian Cement profiles
  6. Updated data: Grout-Coarse - updated profiles with new US and Canadian Cement profiles
  7. Updated data: 4",6",8",10" and 12" Normal Weight and Lightweight Concrete Block -updated Canadian profiles to regional CCMPA 2022 LCA, US profiles updated with 2020 PCA cement LCA data
  8. Updated data: Precast Concrete - updated Canadian profiles to regional CPCI 2022 LCA, US profiles updated to CPCI/CPI 2019 North American LCA
  9. Updated data: Precast Panel - updated Canadian profiles to regional CPCI 2022 LCA, US profiles updated to CPCI/CPI 2019 North American LCA
  10. Updated data: Precast Insulated Panel - updated Canadian profiles to regional CPCI 2022 LCA, US profiles updated to CPCI/CPI 2019 North American LCA
  11. Updated data: Precast Insulated Panel with Brick Veneer - discontinued, replaced by Precast Insulated Panel
  12. Updated data: Slag Cement - updated to 2021 SCA North American LCA
  13. Updated data: Ready Mix Concrete Plant Process - updated Canadian profiles to CRMCA 2022 LCA (A3), and US profiles to NRMCA v3 2020 LCA (A3)
  14. Updated data: Concrete Benchmark USA 2500 psi - updated mixes to NRMCA v3 2020 LCA
  15. Updated data: Concrete Benchmark USA 3000 psi - updated mixes to NRMCA v3 2020 LCA
  16. Updated data: Concrete Benchmark USA 4000 psi - updated mixes to NRMCA v3 2020 LCA
  17. Updated data: Concrete Benchmark USA 5000 psi - updated mixes to NRMCA v3 2020 LCA
  18. Updated data: Concrete Benchmark USA 6000 psi - updated mixes to NRMCA v3 2020 LCA
  19. Updated data: Concrete Benchmark USA 8000 psi - updated mixes to NRMCA v3 2020 LCA
  20. Updated data: Semi finished structural steel products updated to AISI 2020 LCA. Fabrication energy of finished products modeled to Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles
  21. Updated data: Wide Flange Sections-Semi finished structural steel products updated to AISI 2020 LCA. Fabrication energy of finished products modeled to Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles
  22. Updated data: Hot Rolled Sheet-Semi finished structural steel products updated to AISI 2020 LCA. Fabrication energy of finished products modeled to Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles
  23. Updated data: Cold Rolled Sheet-Semi finished structural steel products updated to AISI 2020 LCA. Fabrication energy of finished products modeled to Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles
  24. Updated data: Galvanized Sheet-Semi finished structural steel products updated to AISI 2020 LCA. Fabrication energy of finished products modeled to Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles
  25. Updated data: Steel Plate-Semi finished structural steel products updated to AISI 2020 LCA. Fabrication energy of finished products modeled to Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles
  26. Updated data: Semi finished reinforcing steel products updated to CSRI 2022 LCA
  27. Updated data: Rebar-Semi finished reinforcing steel products updated to CSRI 2022 LCA
  28. Updated data: Wire Rod-Semi finished reinforcing steel products updated to CSRI 2022 LCA
  29. Updated data: Nails-Fabrication energy of finished products modeled with Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles and added to semi finished profiles
  30. Updated data: Screws Nuts & Bolts-Fabrication energy of finished products modeled with Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles and added to semi finished profiles
  31. Updated data: Welded Wire Mesh-Fabrication energy of finished products modeled with Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles and added to semi finished profiles
  32. Updated data: Open Web Joists-Fabrication energy of finished products modeled with Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles and added to semi finished profiles
  33. Updated data: Hollow Structural Steel-Fabrication energy of finished products modeled with Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles and added to semi finished profiles
  34. Updated data: Steel Tubing-Fabrication energy of finished products modeled with Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles and added to semi finished profiles
  35. Updated data: Galvanized Decking-Fabrication energy of finished products modeled with Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles and added to semi finished profiles
  36. Updated data: Galvanized Studs-Fabrication energy of finished products modeled with Canadian and US electricity and fuel profiles and added to semi finished profiles
  37. Updated data: MBS Primary Frames-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  38. Updated data: MBS Secondary Components (purlins,girts,bracing)-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  39. Updated data: MBS Metal Roof Cladding Commercial (24 Ga.)-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  40. Updated data: MBS Metal Roof Cladding Commercial (26 Ga.)-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  41. Updated data: MBS Metal Wall Cladding Commercial (26 Ga.)-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  42. Updated data: MBS Metal Wall Cladding Commercial (24 Ga.)-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  43. Updated data: Metal Wall Cladding Residential (30 Ga.)-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  44. Updated data: Metal Wall Cladding Commercial (26 Ga.)-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  45. Updated data: Metal Roof Cladding Residential (30 Ga.)-Metal Building System products updated to MBMA 2021 LCA
  46. Updated data: Small Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried - updated Canadian profiles to CWC 2018 LCA, BC to FII 2023 LCA and US profiles to CORRIM 2020 LCA
  47. Updated data: Large Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried-Id - updated Canadian profiles to CWC 2018 LCA, BC to FII 2023 LCA and US profiles to CORRIM 2020 LCA
  48. Updated data: Softwood Plywood-Id 34 - updated Canadian profiles to CWC 2019 LCA, BC to FII 2023 LCA and US profiles to CORRIM 2020 LCA
  49. Updated data: Glulam Sections - updated Canadian profiles to CWC 2019 LCA, BC to FII 2023 LCA and US profiles to CORRIM 2020 LCA
  50. Updated data: Laminated Veneer Lumber - updated Canadian profiles to CWC 2019 LCA, US profiles to CORRIM 2020 LCA
  51. Updated data: Wood I Joist Process (A3) - updated Canadian profiles to CWC 2019 LCA, US profiles to CORRIM 2020 LCA
  52. Updated data: Oriented Strand Board - updated Canadian profiles to CWC 2019 LCA, US profiles to CORRIM 2020 LCA
  53. Updated data: Cross Laminated Timber - updated Canadian profiles to CWC 2020 LCA, BC to FII 2023 LCA, US LCA, using Canadian profile
  54. Updated data: Wood Bevel Siding - previously Spruce Bevel Siding - updated using Small Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried profiles
  55. Updated data: Wood Tongue and Groove Siding - previously Spruce Tongue and Groove Siding - updated using Small Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried profiles
  56. Updated data: Wood Shiplap Siding - previously Spruce Shiplap Siding - updated using Small Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried profiles
  57. Discontinued material: Cedar Wood Bevel Siding - discontinued - replaced by Wood Bevel Siding
  58. Discontinued material: Pine Wood Bevel Siding - discontinued - replaced by Wood Bevel Siding
  59. Discontinued material: Cedar Wood Tongue and Groove Siding - discontinued - replaced by Wood Tongue and Groove Siding
  60. Discontinued material: Pine Wood tongue and groove siding - discontinued - replaced by Wood Tongue and Groove Siding
  61. Discontinued material: Cedar Wood Shiplap Siding - discontinued - replaced by Wood Shiplap Siding
  62. Discontinued material: Pine Wood Shiplap Siding - discontinued - replaced by Wood Shiplap Siding
  63. Updated data: 1/2" Glass Mat Gypsum Panel - updated to GA 2021 North American LCA
  64. Updated data: 5/8" Glass Mat Gypsum Panel - updated to GA 2021 North American LCA
  65. Updated data: 1/2" Lightweight Gypsum Board - updated to GA 2020 North American LCA (renamed from 1/2" Regular Gypsum Board)
  66. Updated data: 5/8" Fire-Rated Type X Gypsum Board - updated to GA 2020 North American LCA
  67. Updated data: 1/2" Regular Gypsum Board - replaced by 1/2" Lightweight Gypsum Board
  68. Discontinued material: 5/8" Regular Gypsum Board - discontinued, replaced by 5/8" Fire-Rated Type X Gypsum Board
  69. Discontinued material: 1/2" Moisture Resistant Gypsum Board - discontinued, replaced by 1/2" Lightweight Gypsum Board
  70. Discontinued material: 5/8" Moisture Resistant Gypsum Board - discontinued, replaced by 5/8" Fire-Rated Type X Gypsum Board
  71. Discontinued material: 1/2" Fire-Rated Type X Gypsum Board - discontinued, replaced by 1/2" Lightweight Gypsum Board
  72. Discontinued material: 5/8" Fire-Rated Type X Gypsum Board - discontinued, replaced by 5/8" Fire-Rated Type X Gypsum Board
  73. Discontinued material: 1/2" Gypsum Fibre Gypsum Board - discontinued, replaced by 1/2" Lightweight Gypsum Board
  74. Discontinued material: 5/8" Gypsum Fibre Gypsum Board - discontinued, replaced by 5/8" Fire-Rated Type X Gypsum Board
  75. Updated data: PVC Membrane 48 mil - updated to CFFA 2020 LCA
  76. New material: TPO membrane-45 mil - added from SPRI 2023 EPD
  77. New material: TPO membrane-60 mil - added from SPRI 2023 EPD
  78. New material: TPO membrane-80 mil - added from SPRI 2023 EPD
  79. Updated data: EPDM membrane-non reinforced,60 mil - previously EPDM membrane (black, 60 mil) - updated to SPRI 2022 EPD
  80. New material: EPDM membrane-non reinforced,45 mil - added from SPRI 2022 EPD
  81. New material: EPDM membrane-non reinforced,90 mil - added from SPRI 2022 EPD
  82. Updated data: EPDM membrane-reinforced,60 mil - previously EPDM membrane (white, 60 mil) - updated to SPRI 2022 EPD
  83. New material: EPDM membrane-reinforced,45 mil - added from SPRI 2022 EPD
  84. New material: EPDM membrane-reinforced,75 mil - added from SPRI 2022 EPD
  85. Updated data: Blown Cellulose-Wall - previously Blown Cellulose - updated to industry EPD (see user guide)
  86. New material: Loose Fill Cellulose-Roof - added - updated to industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  87. Updated data: Extruded Polystyrene-Wall (HFC 2018) - previously Extruded Polystyrene - updated to industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  88. New material: Extruded Polystyrene-Roof (HFC 2018)- added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  89. New material: Extruded Polystyrene-Wall (HFO 2021)- added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  90. New material: Extruded Polystyrene-Roof (HFO 2021)- added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  91. Updated data: Polyiso Foam Board-Wall (GRFF faced) - previously PolyIsocyanurate Foam- updated to industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  92. New material: Polyiso Foam Board-Roof (GRF faced)- added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  93. Updated data: Mineral Wool Batt (low density) - previously Mineral Wool Batt R11-15- updated to industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  94. New material: Mineral Wool Batt (medium density)- added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  95. New material: Mineral Wool Batt (high density)- added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  96. Discontinued material: MW Batt R20 - discontinued - replaced by Mineral Wool Batt (low density)
  97. Discontinued material: MW Batt R30 - discontinued - replaced by Mineral Wool Batt (low density)
  98. Discontinued material: MW Batt R40 - discontinued - replaced by Mineral Wool Batt (low density)
  99. Discontinued material: MW Batt R50 - discontinued - replaced by Mineral Wool Batt (low density)
  100. Updated data: Fiberglass Batt (low density) - previously Fibreglass Batt R11-15 - updated to industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  101. New material: Fiberglass Batt (medium density) - added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  102. Discontinued material: FG Batt R20 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Batt (low density)
  103. Discontinued material: FG Batt R30 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Batt (low density)
  104. Discontinued material: FG Batt R40 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Batt (low density)
  105. Discontinued material: FG Batt R50 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Batt (low density)
  106. Updated data: Fiberglass Loose Fill - previously Fibreglass Loose Fill Open Blow R13-20 - updated to industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  107. New material: Loose Fill Cellulose-Roof - added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  108. Discontinued material: FG LF Open Blow R21-30 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Loose Fill
  109. Discontinued material: FG LF Open Blow R31-40 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Loose Fill
  110. Discontinued material: FG LF Open Blow R41-50 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Loose Fill
  111. Discontinued material: FG LF Open Blow R51-60 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Loose Fill
  112. Discontinued material: FG LF Cavity Fill R15 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Loose Fill
  113. Discontinued material: FG LF Cavity Fill R22 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Loose Fill
  114. Discontinued material: FG LF Cavity Fill R30 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Loose Fill
  115. Discontinued material: FG LF Cavity Fill R38 - discontinued - replaced by Fiberglass Loose Fill
  116. New material: Spray PUR Foam-HFO-Closed Cell - added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  117. New material: Spray PUR Foam-HFO-Open Cell - added - updated from industry EPD(s) (see user guide)
  118. Updated data: Glazing Panels - updated material lifespans to 30 years - harmonized with window frames
  119. Updated data: Window Frames- updated material lifespans to 30 years - harmonized with glazing panels
  120. Updated data: Paints - updated material lifespans to 10 years - previously 5
  121. Updated data: Bricks - updated material lifespans to 75 years - previously none
  122. Updated data: Precast panels - updated material lifespans to 75 years - previously none
  123. Updated data: Stucco - updated material lifespans to 50 years - previously 35
  124. Updated data: Natural Stone - updated material lifespans to 75 years - previously none

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.4 Build 0103:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.4, Build 0103, released in February 2020:

General Changes

  1. Export Reports : all of the Project reports exportable from the File menu are not calculating area and height correctly when the project is using the Imperial units system.
  2. Export Reports : when exporting reports for projects that are stored in a synchronized folder (e.g., OneDrive, Google Drive, DropBox, Box), an exception may be encountered when the files being written to are actively being synchronized.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.4 Build 0102:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.4, Build 0102, released in February 2020:

General Changes

  1. Check for Updates is not working as of 17 July 2019 was caused by a web server upgrade that changed the FTP user account naming convention.
  2. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) Assemblies : An exception may be encountered when changing between SI and Imperial units on all 3 CLT assemblies (Floors, Roofs, Walls). This is due to the maximum value property not being correctly updated when the units are changed. For instance, if the entered span is 10 m and the maximum permitted value is 10 m, when the units are changed from SI to Imperial, the span is correctly updated to be 32.8 ft, but the maximum permitted value remains at 10 (e.g., 10 ft).
  3. Project - Right Click menu : After creating a new Project record but before adding any assemblies or operating energy to the project, the "Reports" menu item is available when you right-click on the tree node for the new project. This should be greyed out and inaccessible. In the "Reports" from, if you click the "Generate Reports" button from without selecting a project, an unhandled exception will be thrown.
  4. BOM Import Utility : When mapping row data, the Materials selection list wrongly contains "HSS Fabrication Process". If this material is selected, an NULL exception will be thrown "Object reference not set to an instance of an object".

Database Changes

  1. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Asphalt Binder No Additives (formerly Bitumen)
  2. New Material: Added Asphalt Binder with Ground Rubber Tire to the database
  3. New Material: Added Asphalt Binder with Styrene Butadiene Styrene to the database
  4. New Material: Added Asphalt Binder with Polyphosphoric Acid to the database

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.4 Build 0101:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.4, Build 0101, released in May 2019:

General Changes

  1. ecoInvent v3.4 electricity kWh Delivered LCI data has been adopted. For US regions, the ecoInvent electricity data is regionalzied at the NERC region instead of the state level as was previously done. For Canadian regions, the ecoInvent electricity data is regionalized at the province/territory level.
  2. New Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) Assemblies: We have added assembly algorithms for CLT walls, floors, and roofs.
  3. File - Export: A new Client-Ready report can now be exported to PDF (and Microsoft Word) that contains full project information.
  4. File - Export: Results can now be exported to Microsoft Excel for a selected project or all open projects. This feature is only enabled if Microsoft Excel is installed.
  5. FIPS validation error on launch: On computers running the Windows 10 Enterprise 64-bit operating system, a FIPS validation error was being displayed when launching the IE for Buildings application.
    "An error was encountered while attempting to run the application. Error message: This implementation is not part of the Windows Platform FIPS validated cryptographic algorithms".
  6. BOM Import Utility was not honouring the "Construction Waste Factor Included" option. For instance, if a material has a quantity of 1.05, a Construction Waste Factor of 5% (0.03) and "Construction Waste Factor Included" is checked, then the BOM Import Utility should back-out the waste factor such that the corresponding input quantity on the Extra Materials assembly would be 1.00 instead of 1.05. This was not happening.

Database Changes

  1. Updated Fuel Emissions to Air: Updated the biogenic emissions due to hydro dams and pumped storage for Hydro electricity.
  2. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for PVC Membrane 48 mil to 1.05 from 1.5309 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  3. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for EPDM membrane (black, 60 mil) to 1.05 from 1.995 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  4. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Modified Bitumen membrane to 2.06 from 8.58 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  5. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Polyester felt to 1.00 from 0.000236 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  6. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Polyethylene Filter Fabric to 1.00 from 0.000084 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  7. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for EPDM membrane (white, 60 mil) to 1.00 from 2.205 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  8. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroLast© white PVC membrane 40 mil to 1.05 from 1.35387 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  9. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroLast© white PVC membrane 50 mil to 1.05 from 1.704885 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  10. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroLast© white PVC membrane 60 mil to 1.05 from 2.037105 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  11. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 50 mil to 1.05 from 1.4343 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  12. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 60 mil to 1.05 from 1.5393 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  13. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroFleece© PVC membrane 50 mil to 1.05 from 1.68945 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  14. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroFleece© PVC membrane 80 mil to 1.05 from 2.7006 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  15. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroTuff© PVC membrane 50 mil to 1.05 from 1.4343 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  16. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroTuff© PVC membrane 60 mil to 1.05 from 1.79235 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  17. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for DuroTuff© PVC membrane 80 mil to 1.05 from 2.61345 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  18. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 48 mil to 1.05 from 1.575 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  19. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 60 mil to 1.05 from 1.89 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  20. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 72 mil to 1.05 from 2.415 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  21. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 80 mil to 1.05 from 2.625 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  22. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 48 mil to 1.05 from 1.785 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  23. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 60 mil to 1.05 from 2.1 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  24. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 72 mil to 1.05 from 2.52 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  25. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 80 mil to 1.05 from 2.73 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  26. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for SikaPlan© Fastened PVC Membrane 45 mil to 1.05 from 1.47 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  27. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for SikaPlan© Fastened PVC Membrane 60 mil to 1.05 from 1.8585 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  28. Updated Envelope Material: Changed installation factors for SikaPlan© Adhered PVC Membrane 60 mil to 1.05 from 1.806 in support of change of base unit to m2 from kg
  29. Updated Material: Corrected density for the following materials for all insulation materials with "m2 (25 mm)" base unit, such that density = ConversionToTonnesFactor/0.025381 [Tonnes/m3]
    • Blown Cellulose, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0006400000 and the corrected Density is 0.0252157125
    • Expanded Polystyrene, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0007200000 and the corrected Density is 0.0283676766
    • Extruded Polystyrene, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0012300000 and the corrected Density is 0.0484614475
    • FG Batt R11-15, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0003130548 and the corrected Density is 0.0123342185
    • FG Batt R20, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0002693491 and the corrected Density is 0.0106122336
    • FG Batt R30, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0002142596 and the corrected Density is 0.0084417320
    • FG Batt R40, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0002244237 and the corrected Density is 0.0088421930
    • FG Batt R50, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0002569488 and the corrected Density is 0.0101236673
    • FG LF Cavity Fill R15, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0006448115 and the corrected Density is 0.0254052835
    • FG LF Cavity Fill R22, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0006622938 and the corrected Density is 0.0260940782
    • FG LF Cavity Fill R30, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0006574150 and the corrected Density is 0.0259018557
    • FG LF Cavity Fill R38, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0006574150 and the corrected Density is 0.0259018557
    • FG LF Open Blow R13-20, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0001866132 and the corrected Density is 0.0073524763
    • FG LF Open Blow R21-30, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0001988101 and the corrected Density is 0.0078330286
    • FG LF Open Blow R31-40, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0002079578 and the corrected Density is 0.0081934439
    • FG LF Open Blow R41-50, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0002175121 and the corrected Density is 0.0085698790
    • FG LF Open Blow R51-60, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0002282860 and the corrected Density is 0.0089943659
    • Isocyanurate Spray Foam, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0009200000 and the corrected Density is 0.0362475868
    • MW Batt R11-15, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0013010068 and the corrected Density is 0.0512590836
    • MW Batt R20, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0013213350 and the corrected Density is 0.0520600055
    • MW Batt R30, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0011859490 and the corrected Density is 0.0467258579
    • MW Batt R40, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0013213350 and the corrected Density is 0.0520600055
    • MW Batt R50, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0013213350 and the corrected Density is 0.0520600055
    • Polyiso Foam Board (unfaced), where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0007489000 and the corrected Density is 0.0295063236
    • VR Extensive Growing Medium, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0193750000 and the corrected Density is 0.7633662976
    • VR Intensive Growing Medium, where Conversion to Tonnes Factor is 0.0193750000 and the corrected Density is 0.7633662976
  30. Updated Material: Updated Canadian LCI data for Small Dimension Softwood Lumber (SDSL) using the corrected conversion factor from m3 to MBFM
  31. Updated Material: Updated Canadian LCI data for Large Dimension Softwood Lumber (LDSL) using the corrected conversion factor from m3 to MBFM
  32. Updated Material: Updated Canadian LCI data for Softwood Plywood using the corrected conversion factor from m3 to MBFM. Also updated the originating region info.
  33. Updated Material: Updated Canadian LCI data for Oriented Strand Board using the corrected conversion factor from m3 to MBFM. Also updated the originating region info.
  34. Updated Material: Updated Canadian LCI data for GluLam Sections. Also updated the originating region info.
  35. Updated Material: Updated Canadian LCI data for Laminated Veneer Lumber. Also updated the originating region info.
  36. Updated Material: Updated Canadian LCI data for Wood I Joist Process.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.3 Build 0112:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.3, Build 0112, released in March 2019:

General Changes

  1. Extra Materials not loading: With the release of v5.3, the two separate databases for our Pavement and Buildings tools were consolidated which resulted in some materials getting new IDs. When loading a pre-v5.3 release project file that has one or more Extra Material Assemblies, some of the materials with new IDs were not getting resolved properly to their new IDs.

    Additionally, if Legacy Mateiral IDs were not resolved properly to their new IDs and the new IDs were subsequently replaced by new materials, the replacement would not be successful.

    The following list is a complete list of Materials that are available to the IE for Buildings and were given new IDs when the two databases were consolidated:
    Old Id Old Name New Id New Name Replacement Id Replacement Name Replaced in Version
    2801/2" Glass Mat Gypsum Panel4241/2" Glass Mat Gypsum Panel0
    28510" Lightweight Concrete Block42910" Lightweight Concrete Block0
    23810" Normal Weight Concrete Block39010" Normal Weight Concrete Block0
    28612" Lightweight Concrete Block43012" Lightweight Concrete Block0
    23912" Normal Weight Concrete Block39112" Normal Weight Concrete Block0
    1352" Insulated Metal Panel3112" Insulated Metal Panel0
    2342" Insulated Metal Panel without Metal Facing3862" Insulated Metal Panel without Metal Facing0
    2363" Insulated Metal Panel3883" Insulated Metal Panel0
    2353" Insulated Metal Panel without Metal Facing3873" Insulated Metal Panel without Metal Facing0
    2824" Lightweight Concrete Block4264" Lightweight Concrete Block0
    2815/8" Glass Mat Gypsum Panel4255/8" Glass Mat Gypsum Panel0
    2836" Lightweight Concrete Block4276" Lightweight Concrete Block0
    2376" Normal Weight Concrete Block3896" Normal Weight Concrete Block0
    2848" Lightweight Concrete Block4288" Lightweight Concrete Block0
    173Air-Cooled Blast-Furnace Slag - Crushed164Air-Cooled Blast-Furnace Slag - Crushed166Slag Cement5.1.0101
    174Air-Cooled Blast-Furnace Slag - Not Crushed165Air-Cooled Blast-Furnace Slag - Not Crushed166Slag Cement5.1.0101
    83Aluminum83Aluminum393Aluminum Extrusion5.2.0103
    244Aluminum Casting396Aluminum Casting0
    165Aluminum Clad Wood Window Frame341Aluminum Clad Wood Window Frame0
    245Aluminum Clean Scrap Recycling Process397Aluminum Clean Scrap Recycling Process0
    243Aluminum Cold Rolled Sheet395Aluminum Cold Rolled Sheet0
    241Aluminum Extrusion393Aluminum Extrusion0
    242Aluminum Hot Rolled Sheet394Aluminum Hot Rolled Sheet0
    257Aluminum Primary Minus Secondary Ingot Process403Aluminum Primary Minus Secondary Ingot Process0
    246Aluminum Secondary Ingot Recycling Process398Aluminum Secondary Ingot Recycling Process0
    247Aluminum Window Frame Constituents399Aluminum Window Frame Constituents0
    172Bitumen128Bitumen0
    216Bolts, Fasteners, Clips369Bolts, Fasteners, Clips0
    217CLT Fabrication Process370CLT Fabrication Process0
    183Coarse Aggregate Crushed Stone202Coarse Aggregate Crushed Stone0
    182Coarse Aggregate Natural201Coarse Aggregate Natural0
    5Concrete 15 MPa (flyash 25%)5Concrete 15 MPa (flyash 25%)291Concrete Benchmark USA 2500 psi5.1.0101
    9Concrete 15 MPa (flyash 35%)9Concrete 15 MPa (flyash 35%)291Concrete Benchmark USA 2500 psi5.1.0101
    13Concrete 15 MPa (flyash 50%)13Concrete 15 MPa (flyash 50%)291Concrete Benchmark USA 2500 psi5.1.0101
    1Concrete 15 MPa (flyash av)1Concrete 15 MPa (flyash av)291Concrete Benchmark USA 2500 psi5.1.0101
    6Concrete 20 MPa (flyash 25%)6Concrete 20 MPa (flyash 25%)292Concrete Benchmark USA 3000 psi5.1.0101
    10Concrete 20 MPa (flyash 35%)10Concrete 20 MPa (flyash 35%)292Concrete Benchmark USA 3000 psi5.1.0101
    14Concrete 20 MPa (flyash 50%)14Concrete 20 MPa (flyash 50%)292Concrete Benchmark USA 3000 psi5.1.0101
    2Concrete 20 MPa (flyash av)2Concrete 20 MPa (flyash av)292Concrete Benchmark USA 3000 psi5.1.0101
    7Concrete 30 MPa (flyash 25%)7Concrete 30 MPa (flyash 25%)293Concrete Benchmark USA 4000 psi5.1.0101
    11Concrete 30 MPa (flyash 35%)11Concrete 30 MPa (flyash 35%)293Concrete Benchmark USA 4000 psi5.1.0101
    15Concrete 30 MPa (flyash 50%)15Concrete 30 MPa (flyash 50%)293Concrete Benchmark USA 4000 psi5.1.0101
    3Concrete 30 MPa (flyash av)3Concrete 30 MPa (flyash av)293Concrete Benchmark USA 4000 psi5.1.0101
    8Concrete 60 MPa (flyash 25%)8Concrete 60 MPa (flyash 25%)296Concrete Benchmark USA 8000 psi5.1.0101
    12Concrete 60 MPa (flyash 35%)12Concrete 60 MPa (flyash 35%)296Concrete Benchmark USA 8000 psi5.1.0101
    16Concrete 60 MPa (flyash 50%)16Concrete 60 MPa (flyash 50%)296Concrete Benchmark USA 8000 psi5.1.0101
    4Concrete 60 MPa (flyash av)4Concrete 60 MPa (flyash av)296Concrete Benchmark USA 8000 psi5.1.0101
    248Concrete Benchmark 2500 psi291Concrete Benchmark USA 2500 psi0
    249Concrete Benchmark 3000 psi292Concrete Benchmark USA 3000 psi0
    250Concrete Benchmark 4000 psi293Concrete Benchmark USA 4000 psi0
    251Concrete Benchmark 5000 psi294Concrete Benchmark USA 5000 psi0
    252Concrete Benchmark 6000 psi295Concrete Benchmark USA 6000 psi0
    253Concrete Benchmark 8000 psi296Concrete Benchmark USA 8000 psi0
    218Cross Laminated Timber371Cross Laminated Timber0
    215Crushed Recycled Concrete368Crushed Recycled Concrete0
    163Double Glazed Soft Coated Air339Double Glazed Soft Coated Air0
    260DuroFleece© PVC membrane 50 mil406DuroFleece© PVC membrane 50 mil0
    261DuroFleece© PVC membrane 60 mil407DuroFleece© PVC membrane 60 mil0
    262DuroFleece© PVC membrane 80 mil408DuroFleece© PVC membrane 80 mil0
    258DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 50 mil404DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 50 mil0
    259DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 60 mil405DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 60 mil0
    254DuroLast© white PVC membrane 40 mil400DuroLast© white PVC membrane 40 mil0
    255DuroLast© white PVC membrane 50 mil401DuroLast© white PVC membrane 50 mil0
    256DuroLast© white PVC membrane 60 mil402DuroLast© white PVC membrane 60 mil0
    263DuroTuff© PVC membrane 50 mil409DuroTuff© PVC membrane 50 mil0
    264DuroTuff© PVC membrane 60 mil410DuroTuff© PVC membrane 60 mil0
    265DuroTuff© PVC membrane 80 mil411DuroTuff© PVC membrane 80 mil0
    191Emulsified Asphalt Primer Coat256Emulsified Asphalt Primer Coat0
    190Emulsified Asphalt Tack Coat255Emulsified Asphalt Tack Coat0
    141FG Batt R20317FG Batt R200
    142FG Batt R30318FG Batt R300
    143FG Batt R40319FG Batt R400
    144FG Batt R50320FG Batt R500
    150FG LF Cavity Fill R15326FG LF Cavity Fill R150
    151FG LF Cavity Fill R22327FG LF Cavity Fill R220
    152FG LF Cavity Fill R30328FG LF Cavity Fill R300
    153FG LF Cavity Fill R38329FG LF Cavity Fill R380
    145FG LF Open Blow R13-20321FG LF Open Blow R13-200
    146FG LF Open Blow R21-30322FG LF Open Blow R21-300
    147FG LF Open Blow R31-40323FG LF Open Blow R31-400
    148FG LF Open Blow R41-50324FG LF Open Blow R41-500
    149FG LF Open Blow R51-60325FG LF Open Blow R51-600
    138Fibreglass Batt314Fibreglass Batt0
    139Fibreglass Loose Fill315Fibreglass Loose Fill0
    158Fibreglass Window Frame334Fibreglass Window Frame0
    180Fine Aggregate Crushed Stone199Fine Aggregate Crushed Stone0
    179Fine Aggregate Natural198Fine Aggregate Natural0
    189Fly Ash208Fly Ash0
    137Foil Facer313Foil Facer0
    221GAF Everguard© Extreme white TPO membrane 60 mil374GAF Everguard© Extreme white TPO membrane 60 mil0
    222GAF Everguard© Extreme white TPO membrane 70 mil375GAF Everguard© Extreme white TPO membrane 70 mil0
    223GAF Everguard© Extreme white TPO membrane 80 mil376GAF Everguard© Extreme white TPO membrane 80 mil0
    219GAF Everguard© white TPO membrane 60 mil372GAF Everguard© white TPO membrane 60 mil0
    220GAF Everguard© white TPO membrane 80 mil373GAF Everguard© white TPO membrane 80 mil0
    205Galvanized Decking Fabrication Process358Galvanized Decking Fabrication Process0
    206Galvanized Studs Fabrication Process359Galvanized Studs Fabrication Process0
    136Glass Facer312Glass Facer0
    176Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag167Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag166Slag Cement5.1.0101
    177Granulated Nickel Slag189Granulated Nickel Slag166Slag Cement5.1.0101
    178Granulated Steel Slag196Granulated Steel Slag166Slag Cement5.1.0101
    197HSS Fabrication Process350HSS Fabrication Process0
    185Hydrated Lime204Hydrated Lime0
    39Large Dimension Softwood Lumber, Green39Large Dimension Softwood Lumber, Green40Large Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried4.5.0101
    278Lightweight Aggregate Manufactured302Lightweight Aggregate Manufactured0
    279Lightweight Aggregate Natural303Lightweight Aggregate Natural0
    132MBS Metal Roof Cladding - Commercial (24 Ga.)308MBS Metal Roof Cladding - Commercial (24 Ga.)0
    167MBS Metal Roof Cladding - Commercial (26 Ga.)342MBS Metal Roof Cladding - Commercial (26 Ga.)0
    210MBS Metal Roof Cladding Fabrication Process363MBS Metal Roof Cladding Fabrication Process0
    214MBS Metal Roof Cladding SFSP367MBS Metal Roof Cladding SFSP0
    133MBS Metal Wall Cladding - Commercial (24 Ga.)309MBS Metal Wall Cladding - Commercial (24 Ga.)0
    168MBS Metal Wall Cladding - Commercial (26 Ga.)343MBS Metal Wall Cladding - Commercial (26 Ga.)0
    209MBS Metal Wall Cladding Fabrication Process362MBS Metal Wall Cladding Fabrication Process0
    213MBS Metal Wall Cladding SFSP366MBS Metal Wall Cladding SFSP0
    207MBS Primary Frame Fabrication Process360MBS Primary Frame Fabrication Process0
    169MBS Primary Frames344MBS Primary Frames0
    211MBS Primary Frames SFSP364MBS Primary Frames SFSP0
    208MBS Secondary Component Fabrication Process361MBS Secondary Component Fabrication Process0
    170MBS Secondary Components (purlins,girts,bracing)345MBS Secondary Components (purlins,girts,bracing)0
    212MBS Secondary Components SFSP365MBS Secondary Components SFSP0
    134Metal Roof Cladding - Residential (30 Ga.)310Metal Roof Cladding - Residential (30 Ga.)0
    184Mineral Filler Crushed Stone203Mineral Filler Crushed Stone0
    181Mineral Filler Natural200Mineral Filler Natural0
    140Mineral Wool Batt316Mineral Wool Batt0
    154MW Batt R20330MW Batt R200
    155MW Batt R30331MW Batt R300
    156MW Batt R40332MW Batt R400
    157MW Batt R50333MW Batt R500
    200Nails Fabrication Process353Nails Fabrication Process0
    203Open Web Joists Fabrication Process356Open Web Joists Fabrication Process0
    186Portland Cement205Portland Cement0
    187Portland Lime Cement206Portland Lime Cement0
    128Precast Concrete304Precast Concrete0
    277Precast Concrete Manufacturing Process423Precast Concrete Manufacturing Process0
    129Precast Insulated Panel305Precast Insulated Panel0
    130Precast Insulated Panel with Brick Veneer306Precast Insulated Panel with Brick Veneer0
    131Precast Panel307Precast Panel0
    193Ready Mix Concrete Plant Process279Ready Mix Concrete Plant Process0
    225Rough Lumber SFWP377Rough Lumber SFWP0
    166Sanitary Landfill Process - Municipal Waste278Sanitary Landfill Process - Municipal Waste0
    224Sanitary Landfill Process - Wood Waste280Sanitary Landfill Process - Wood Waste0
    202Screws Nuts and Bolts Fabrication Process355Screws Nuts and Bolts Fabrication Process0
    266Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 48 mil412Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 48 mil0
    267Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 60 mil413Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 60 mil0
    268Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 72 mil414Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 72 mil0
    269Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 80 mil415Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 80 mil0
    270Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 48 mil416Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 48 mil0
    271Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 60 mil417Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 60 mil0
    272Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 72 mil418Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 72 mil0
    273Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 80 mil419Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 80 mil0
    276SikaPlan© Adhered PVC Membrane 60 mil422SikaPlan© Adhered PVC Membrane 60 mil0
    274SikaPlan© Fastened PVC Membrane 45 mil420SikaPlan© Fastened PVC Membrane 45 mil0
    275SikaPlan© Fastened PVC Membrane 60 mil421SikaPlan© Fastened PVC Membrane 60 mil0
    188Silica Fume207Silica Fume0
    175Slag Cement166Slag Cement0
    32Small Dimension Softwood Lumber, Green32Small Dimension Softwood Lumber, Green33Small Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried4.5.0101
    194Steel Plate347Steel Plate0
    199Steel Scrap EAF Process352Steel Scrap EAF Process0
    195Steel Scrap Mixed Process348Steel Scrap Mixed Process0
    196Steel Scrap Recycling CPT Process349Steel Scrap Recycling CPT Process0
    204Steel Tubing Fabrication Process357Steel Tubing Fabrication Process0
    160Triple Glazed Hard Coated Air336Triple Glazed Hard Coated Air0
    161Triple Glazed Hard Coated Argon337Triple Glazed Hard Coated Argon0
    159Triple Glazed No Coating Air335Triple Glazed No Coating Air0
    164Triple Glazed Soft Coated Air340Triple Glazed Soft Coated Air0
    162Triple Glazed Soft Coated Argon338Triple Glazed Soft Coated Argon0
    229VR 1" Drainage Mat381VR 1" Drainage Mat0
    228VR 1/2" Drainage Mat380VR 1/2" Drainage Mat0
    230VR 20 mil Root Barrier382VR 20 mil Root Barrier0
    231VR 40 mil Root Barrier383VR 40 mil Root Barrier0
    240VR Coarse Aggregate Natural392VR Coarse Aggregate Natural0
    226VR Extensive Growing Medium378VR Extensive Growing Medium0
    227VR Intensive Growing Medium379VR Intensive Growing Medium0
    232VR Protection Sheet384VR Protection Sheet0
    233VR Separation Fabric385VR Separation Fabric0
    192Water257Water0
    201Welded Wire Mesh Fabrication Process354Welded Wire Mesh Fabrication Process0
    198Wire Rod351Wire Rod0
    171Wood I Joist Process346Wood I Joist Process0

Database Changes

  1. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for GluLam Sections - Canada only
  2. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Laminated Veneer Lumber - Canada only
  3. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Large Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried - Canada only
  4. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Oriented Strand Board - Canada only
  5. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Small Dimension Softwood Lumber, kiln-dried - Canada only
  6. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Softwood Plywood - Canada only
  7. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroFleece© PVC membrane 50 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0016090000 m2/Tonne)
  8. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroFleece© PVC membrane 60 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0018910000 m2/Tonne)
  9. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroFleece© PVC membrane 80 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0025720000 m2/Tonne)
  10. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 50 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0013660000 m2/Tonne)
  11. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 60 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0014660000 m2/Tonne)
  12. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroLast© white PVC membrane 40 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0012894000 m2/Tonne)
  13. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroLast© white PVC membrane 50 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0016237000 m2/Tonne)
  14. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroLast© white PVC membrane 60 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0019401000 m2/Tonne)
  15. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroTuff© PVC membrane 50 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0013660000 m2/Tonne)
  16. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroTuff© PVC membrane 60 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0017070000 m2/Tonne)
  17. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for DuroTuff© PVC membrane 80 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0024890000 m2/Tonne)
  18. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for EPDM membrane (black, 60 mil) from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0019000000 m2/Tonne)
  19. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for EPDM membrane (white, 60 mil) from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0021000000 m2/Tonne)
  20. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Modified Bitumen membrane from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0041650000 m2/Tonne)
  21. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Polyester felt from tonnes (1.0000000000 tonnes/Tonne) to m2 (0.0002360000 m2/Tonne)
  22. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Polyethylene Filter Fabric from tonnes (1.0000000000 tonnes/Tonne) to m2 (0.0000840000 m2/Tonne)
  23. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for PVC Membrane 48 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0014580000 m2/Tonne)
  24. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 48 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0015000000 m2/Tonne)
  25. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 60 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0018000000 m2/Tonne)
  26. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 72 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0023000000 m2/Tonne)
  27. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 80 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0025000000 m2/Tonne)
  28. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 48 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0017000000 m2/Tonne)
  29. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 60 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0020000000 m2/Tonne)
  30. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 72 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0024000000 m2/Tonne)
  31. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 80 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0026000000 m2/Tonne)
  32. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for SikaPlan© Adhered PVC Membrane 60 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0017200000 m2/Tonne)
  33. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for SikaPlan© Fastened PVC Membrane 45 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0014000000 m2/Tonne)
  34. Updated Material: Changed Base Unit for SikaPlan© Fastened PVC Membrane 60 mil from kg (0.0010000000 kg/Tonne) to m2 (0.0017700000 m2/Tonne)

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.3 Build 0111:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.3, Build 0111, released in September 2018:

General Changes

  1. LEED v4 Whole Building LCA Credit Report: in the "LCA Software Inputs" section on page 5 had the following issues:
    • Building Height was always reported in "m" even when the reference project units system was Imperial and "ft" was expected
    • Gross Floor Area was always reported in "m2" even when the reference project units system was Imperial and "ft2" was expected
    • Bill of Materials Unit of Measure values were always being reported in terms of the reference project units system, even when the proposed building values were in SI

    To correct the above issues, all values are now converted to the units system of the reference building and the appropriate unit of measure has been added to the Building Height and Gross Floor Area value cells.

    This bug was introduced with the release of version 5.2.0116 in December 2016.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.3 Build 0110:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.3, Build 0110, released in September 2018:

General Changes

  1. Pre-Engineered Roof and Wall Assemblies were using the wrong Materials for Cladding. This bug was introduced with the release of version 5.3.0105 in July 2018.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.3 Build 0109:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.3, Build 0109, released in September 2018:

In 2017, the Canadian Ready Mix Concrete Association, CRMCA, published an Industry Wide EPD. We have updated the database to include the CRMCA's 2017 EPD benchmark mixes.  We also added the other CRMCA 117 EPD mixes to the Bulk Product Projects folder under the File menu.  Details of the EPD mixes and how to use them in projects can be found in a PDF document that is available when you choose this option.

The benchmark mixes for each strength class in the EPD are included in the database and are available once the tool is installed.  Six benchmark mixes are available in the assembly dialog boxes for all concrete assemblies, and details are explained in the help file for each assembly.  The remaining benchmarks are available in Extra Basic Materials and can be used in the assemblies as user defined mixes (see the help files for instructions).

General Changes

  1. The 6 CRMCA benchmark mixes are now tied to the following assemblies. When a project location is a Canadian city, then choosing a particular concrete strength using the radio buttons in the assembly dialog boxes will use the CRMCA benchmark for that strength in the model, and if the project location is an American city, then the NRMCA benchmark will be used.
    • Columns & Beams
    • Composite Metal Floor
    • Concrete Hollow Core Floor
    • Concrete Parking Garage Floor
    • Concrete Precast Double T Floor
    • Concrete Suspended Slab Floor
    • Open Web Steel Joist Floor
    • Composite Metal Roof
    • Concrete Hollow Core Roof
    • Concrete Parking Garage Roof
    • Concrete Precast Double T Roof
    • Concrete Suspended Slab Roof
    • Open Web Steel Joist Roof
    • Concrete Footing Foundation
    • Concrete Slab on Grade Foundation
    • Cast in Place Wall
    • Concrete Tilt Up Wall
    • Insulated Concrete Form Wall

Database Changes

  1. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 15 MPa to the database with mix information from the NRMCA Industry Wide EPD since the CRMCA’s EPD did not include a 15 MPa mix.
  2. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 25 MPa to the database with mix information from the CRMCA Industry Wide EPD.
  3. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 30 MPa to the database with mix information from the CRMCA Industry Wide EPD.
  4. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 35 MPa to the database with mix information from the CRMCA Industry Wide EPD.
  5. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 40 MPa to the database with mix information from the CRMCA Industry Wide EPD.
  6. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 45 MPa to the database with mix information from the CRMCA Industry Wide EPD.
  7. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 50 MPa to the database with mix information from the CRMCA Industry Wide EPD.
  8. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 55 MPa to the database with mix information from the CRMCA Industry Wide EPD.
  9. New Material: Added Concrete Benchmark CAN 60 MPa to the database with mix information from the CRMCA Industry Wide EPD.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.3 Build 0107:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.3, Build 0107, released in August 2018:

General Changes

  1. Concrete Block Wall: assembly should only support 200mm (8") concrete block thickness. 5.3.0105 introduced 100 mm (4"), 150 mm (6"), 200 mm (8"), 250 mm (10"), and 300 mm (12") concrete blocks, but we presently only have concrete block wall assembly rebar data for for the 200 mm (8") concrete block.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.3 Build 0105:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.3, Build 0105, released in July 2018:

General Changes

  1. Operating Energy was double converting energy quantities if Imperial units were specified in the Operating Energy form.
  2. Concrete Footing Foundation was updated. Rebar options were changed, width and thickness constraints were removed.
  3. Concrete Block Wall was updated. Rebar is now constrained to just #15M (#5), five new concrete block thicknesses are now available, and material calculations have been updated. New material Grout-Coarse is now use to fill hollow cavities and Mortar is now only used to joints.

Database Updates

  1. TRACI Measures: Updated TRACI measure characterization factors for Global Warming Potential and Acidification Potential. Methane and N20 factors for GWP and Ammonia and Sulphur Oxides factors for Acidification Potential were aligned with the current values used in LCA software. The EPA has not updated those TRACI factors, our software had been using values updated to more recent IPCC values, but our SimaPro LCA software is using the previous values, so we’ve reverted them back to be in line with those values.

    Even if material LCI data hasn’t changed, the GWP and Acidification results will change solely due to the changes in the characterization factors, and will depend on the material. For example, Portland Cement results are barely changed, decreasing 0.2% for both GPW and Acidification. Bitumen GWP results decrease by 3%, while Acidification results increase by 75%.
  2. Crushed and Natural, Coarse and Fine Aggregates and Lightweight, Natural and Manufactured Aggregates: the Manufacturing Transportation energy consumption and effects had previously been rolled up into the Manufacturing Material life cycle stage. They are now separated.
  3. Updated Materials: Updated LCI data for Crushed and Natural, Coarse and Fine Aggregates: There are no industry wide LCA reports available, but these LCI data were updated to use the same Ecoinvent profiles that have been used in recent years for the NRMCA and CRMCA ready mix concrete industry wide LCAs. Aggregates have relatively low effects on a per unit basis compared to other materials, but compared to the previous profiles, GWP and Energy results have increased by approximately 90-100%, with similar increases in the other LCA measures.
  4. Ready Mix Concrete Process: The energy profile for Ready Mix Concrete was updated to the profile developed in the Industry Wide NRMCA Ready Mix LCA of 2016.
  5. Updated Material: Updated density value for GluLam Sections.
  6. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 60 mil.
  7. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 72 mil.
  8. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 80 mil.
  9. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 60 mil.
  10. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 72 mil.
  11. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Sika Sarnafil© S327 PVC Membrane 80 mil.
  12. Updated Material: Updated LCI data for Mortar: Updated the LCI data for US and Canadian regions with mix information from the CCMPA CMU review.
  13. New Material: Added Grout-Coarse to the database with mix information from the CCMPA CMU review.
  14. New Material: Added Grout-Fine to the database with mix information from the CCMPA CMU review.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.2 Build 0119:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.2, Build 0119, released in February 2017:

Database Updates

  1. Canadian PLC data correction: The Canadian PLC (Portland Lime Cement) data has been corrected. The Canadian PLC data was mistakenly copied from the Canadian PC (Portland Cement) data. This bug was introduced with the release of version 5.2.0116.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.2 Build 0117:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.2, Build 0117, released in February 2017:

General Changes

  1. Envelope & Opening Material Construction Effects: Construction Installation Process Effects due to Envelope and Opening materials were being underestimated for both Construction and Maintenance life cycle stages.
  2. Duplicate Assembly: An unhandled exception was being thrown when you attempt to duplicate an assembly.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.2 Build 0116:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.2, Build 0116, released in December 2016:

General Changes

  1. Application Performance: Improved assembly and project level life cycle effect calculation time
  2. LEED v4 Whole Building LCA Report: This new feature is now available on the Rating System Reports form that automatically pre-fills and exports a LEED v4 template file with information from the IE for Buildings. After generating the report file, you only need to add the missing project specifics before submitting the completed file for the LEED v4 Whole Building LCA credit.
  3. Extra Materials by Assembly Group: This new feature provides you with the ability to specify extra materials by assembly group (Foundations, Floors, Roofs, Walls, Columns & Beams, and project level)
  4. BOM Import Utility:
    • To take advantage of the new Extra Materials by Assembly Group feature, the BOM Import Utility has been updated to permit mapping of imported material take-off rows directly to one of the extra material assembly groups
    • Improved the "Browse" experience by remembering the last browsed folder while the BOM Import Utility form is visible. This reduces the folder navigation required to pick a different material take-off file to load.
    • Corrected a bug that intermittently caused quantity summation error when a material take-off list contains multiple similar line items
    • Corrected a bug that caused the "Skip Zero Quantities" checkbox to always evaluate to false when re-loading material take off file(s) even though this checkbox had been checked.
  5. Bulk Product Projects: This new feature provides a single folder for IE4B project files that contain regionally relevant pre-defined Concrete Mix Designs.
  6. Project Load - Extra Material Substitution Quantity error: Corrected the algorithm that sets the quantity for an Extra Material assembly material from a legacy project when the legacy project contains multiple materials that have been replaced by newer materials.
  7. Project Load - Extra Material Replacement: Corrected the material being used to replace Concrete 60 MPa.
  8. Secondary Transportation Effects: Corrected a bug in the algorithms that calculates the transportation related secondary (pre-combustion) effects, the secondary transportation effects were being overestimated.
  9. User Defined Concrete Mix Design Library: Corrected a bug when the "Remove" button was selected for a User Defined Concrete Mix Design library record, the record was being removed even if the user selected "NO" when prompted to confirm the removal request.
  10. Project Level Table Reports by Assembly Group: Added option to specify the boundary condition (A to C) or (A to D).
  11. Project Level Chart Reports: Added option to specify the boundary condition (A to C) or (A to D).
  12. Aluminum Windows - Beyond Building Life: Corrected a bug where Module D Effects due to end of life scrap values were being overestimated for Aluminum Windows.
  13. Application Exit: When the application is requested to exit, each open project should be checked to see if it needs to be saved. If a project needs to be saved, a confirmation message is displayed. If "Cancel" is selected, the application exit request should be cancelled. This behaviour was not happening and has been corrected.
  14. Project Save: Corrected a bug where the application was inconsistently remembering the last saved file location. The file save target location not falls through the following folders:
    • Last Save
    • Last Open
    • User Documents
  15. Open an Empty Project File: Corrected a bug that caused an exception message to be displayed when an empty project was opened.
  16. Virtual or Lab Runtime Environments: Program and User file locations have been reorganized in order to better support roaming user profiles that are inherent with Virtual or Lab runtime environments. This update has been successfully tested using Remote Desktop to connect a normal (non-admin) user to a Windows Server 2012 R2 Remote Desktop Session. In particular, the following changes have been made to file locations:
    • Application Executable Files: C:\Program Files\Athena Institute\Impact Estimator for Buildings\
    • Application Supporting Files: C:\ProgramData\Athena Institute\Impact Estimator for Buildings\
    • Application User Files: C:\Users\YourUserName\AppData\Roaming\Athena Institute\Impact Estimator for Buildings\

    In past versions, when the Impact Estimator for Buildings is installed in a lab (client-server) or virtual desktop session runtime environments, some of the user specific files were not being successfully installed in each user specific folder when the application ran for the first time. The offending files were only successfully installed in the user folder for the account under which the application was installed.

    For situations where the application user folders fail to be created by the installer when the application is first launched, the application now attempts to create the following folders under the
    C:\Users\YourUserName\AppData\Roaming\Athena Institute\Impact Estimator for Buildings\ folder:
    • Config
    • Library
    • Updates

    Workaround:The workaround for this was to download the ZIP file from here and decompress it in the user specific folder (e.g., C:\Users\YouUserAccount.YourDomain\Documents\Athena\Impact Estimator for Buildings\). Once the ZIP file has been downloaded, you can choose to use Group Policy Objects or a copy script to accomplish wide distribution of these files.

Database Updates

  1. New Material: Added the Aluminum Primary Minus Secondary Ingot Process and updated scrap value material handling for Aluminum products to use this new material.
  2. New Material: Added the DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 50 mil to the database
  3. New Material: Added the DuroLast© PVC membrane EV 60 mil to the database
  4. New Material: Added the DuroFleece© PVC membrane 50 mil to the database
  5. New Material: Added the DuroFleece© PVC membrane 60 mil to the database
  6. New Material: Added the DuroFleece© PVC membrane 80 mil to the database
  7. New Material: Added the DuroTuff© PVC membrane 50 mil to the database
  8. New Material: Added the DuroTuff© PVC membrane 60 mil to the database
  9. New Material: Added the DuroTuff© PVC membrane 80 mil to the database
  10. New Material: Added the Sika Sarnafil© G410 PVC Membrane 48 mil to the database
  11. New Material: Added the 5/8" Glass Mat Gypsum Panel to the database
  12. New Material: Added the 1/2" Glass Mat Gypsum Panel to the database
  13. New Material: Added the 12" Lightweight Concrete Block to the database
  14. New Material: Added the 10" Lightweight Concrete Block to the database
  15. New Material: Added the 8" Lightweight Concrete Block to the database
  16. New Material: Added the 6" Lightweight Concrete Block to the database
  17. New Material: Added the 4" Lightweight Concrete Block to the database
  18. New Material: Added the 12" Normal Weight Concrete Block to the database
  19. New Material: Added the 10" Normal Weight Concrete Block to the database
  20. New Material: Added the 8" Normal Weight Concrete Block to the database
  21. New Material: Added the 6" Normal Weight Concrete Block to the database
  22. New Material: Added the 4" Normal Weight Concrete Block to the database
  23. New Material: Added the Lightweight Aggregate Manufactured to the database
  24. New Material: Added the Lightweight Aggregate Natural to the database
  25. New Material: Added the Precast Concrete Manufacturing Process to the database
  26. DuroLast© white PVC membrane 40 mil: Updated manufacturing energy consumption
  27. DuroLast© white PVC membrane 50 mil: Updated manufacturing energy consumption
  28. DuroLast© white PVC membrane 60 mil: Updated manufacturing energy consumption
  29. Portland Cement: Updated the LCI data with PCA cement data - for US only
  30. Portland Cement: Updated the LCI data with CAC 2015 cement data - for Canada only
  31. Portland Lime Cement: Updated the LCI data with CAC 2015 cement data - for Canada only
  32. Precast Insulated Panel: Updated the LCI
  33. Precast Insulted Panel with Brick Veneer: Updated the LCI
  34. Precast Panel: Updated the LCI
  35. Composite Metal Floor assembly: Replaced Concrete 20 MPa (flyash av) with Concrete Benchmark 3000 psi
  36. Composite Metal Roof assembly: Replaced Concrete 20 MPa (flyash av) with Concrete Benchmark 3000 psi
  37. Windows and Doors - Opening Panel Materials: Replaced Aluminum with Aluminum Extrusion
  38. Envelope Materials: Replaced Aluminum with Aluminum Cold Rolled Sheet
  39. Semi-Finished Steel Products: Updated Ozone depletion potential (ODP) values for semi-finished steel products.
    • Wide Flange Sections
    • Rebar, Rod, Light Sections
    • Hot Rolled Sheet
    • Cold Rolled Sheet
    • Galvanized Sheet
    • Steel Plate
    • Wire Rod
    • MBS Primary Frames SFSP
    • MBS Secondary Components SFSP
    • MBS Metal Wall Cladding SFSP
    • MBS Metal Roof Cladding SFSP
  40. Retired following materials:
    • Concrete 20 MPa (flyash 25%)
    • Concrete 20 MPa (flyash 35%)
    • Concrete 20 MPa (flyash av)
    • Concrete 30 MPa (flyash 25%)
    • Concrete 30 MPa (flyash 35%)
    • Concrete 30 MPa (flyash av)
    • Concrete 60 MPa (flyash av)
  41. Energy Consumption Report Contribution - Fuel Oil (Commercial): Changed the mapping for Fuel Oil (Commercial) so that it is reported as Diesel instead of Heavy Fuel Oil.
  42. Energy Consumption Report Contribution - Fuel Oil (Residential): Changed the mapping for Fuel Oil (Residential) so that it is reported as Diesel instead of Heavy Fuel Oil.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.1 Build 0102:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.1, Build 0102, released in August 2015:

  1. End of Life Process Effects: Corrected a calculation bug for the End of Life Process related effects for User Defined Concrete Mix Designs.

 

 

Changes & Issues Addressed in Version 5.1 Build 0101:

The following software enhancements, updates and fixes have been made in Version 5.1, Build 0101, released in July 2015:

General Changes

  1. Assembly Concrete Options: NRMCA benchmark concrete mix designs were added to the database Product Library for 2500 psi, 3000 psi, 4000 psi, 5000 psi, 6000 psi and 8000 psi compressive strengths. These benchmark mixes, and their SI equivalents, are now the base or reference mix designs supported in the software’s concrete assemblies.
  2. Insulated Concrete Form Wall: Added the ability for users to select a concrete for the Insulated Concrete Form Wall assembly.
  3. Product Library - Update Synchronization: Improved the effectiveness of inheriting Product Library changes into active projects, their assemblies and any open reports.
  4. Wall Assemblies: The efficiency of Wall assembly calculation algorithms were improved when a project loads
  5. Wall Assembly - Module D Effects: Module D Effects calculation errors have been corrected for wall assemblies.
  6. User Defined Concrete Mix Design: The Material Type for user defined concrete mix design records was not being saved to the Product Library. This caused the User Defined Concrete Mix Design Library Conflict Resolution form to be displayed when a project that used the affected records was subsequently opened.

Database Updates

  1. Portland Cement: Updated the US data for Portland Cement
  2. Slag Cement: Based on the 2015 N.A. industry wide LCA and EPD for Slag Cement and with the support of the Slag Cement Association, the previous Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag profile has been retired and replaced with the latest industry average EPD profile and renamed Slag Cement. Slag Cement replaces all other Slag SCMs in User Defined Composite Product Library records (when the application launches) and in legacy projects (when loaded into the application). The list of retired Slag SCMs include the following:
    • Air-Cooled Blast-Furnace Slag - Crushed
    • Air-Cooled Blast-Furnace Slag - Not Crushed
    • Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag
    • Granulated Nickel Slag
    • Granulated Steel Slag
  3. New Material: Added the "Concrete Benchmark 2500 psi" concrete mix design to the database Product Library.
  4. New Material: Added the "Concrete Benchmark 3000 psi" concrete mix design to the database Product Library.
  5. New Material: Added the "Concrete Benchmark 4000 psi" concrete mix design to the database Product Library.
  6. New Material: Added the "Concrete Benchmark 5000 psi" concrete mix design to the database Product Library.
  7. New Material: Added the "Concrete Benchmark 6000 psi" concrete mix design to the database Product Library.
  8. New Material: Added the "Concrete Benchmark 8000 psi" concrete mix design to the database Product Library.
  9. New Branded Product: Added the "DuroLast© white PVC membrane 40 mil" to the database.
  10. New Branded Product: Added the "DuroLast© white PVC membrane 50 mil" to the database.
  11. New Branded Product: Added the "DuroLast© white PVC membrane 60 mil" to the database.
  12. Aluminum Updates: Aluminum profiles with the latest 2014 N.A. LCI data for primary and secondary ingot, cold and hot rolled sheet, extruded and cast products. These data have been mapped accordingly to the various aluminum products supported in the software and have been modeled on a similar basis as was done for N.A. steel products in version 5.0.
  13. Metal Roof Cladding: Updated life span from 45 to 60 years.

 

 

For the complete revision history, please visit our CalculatelCA site at the following URL:
calculatelca.com/software/impact-estimator/revision-history/