Rating System

LEED BD+C: New Construction, LEED ID+C: Commercial Interiors, LEED BD+C: Core and Shell, LEED BD+C: Schools

Rating System Version

v3 - LEED 2009, v2 - Schools 2007, v2 - LEED 2.2, v2 - LEED 2.0

Inquiry

HVAC duct work is generally installed once the building has walls and a roof, but before windows are installed. It is our project team\'s understanding that the building would not be considered to have indoor air at this time, but since this inquiry deals with the indoor air distribution system, we want to be certain that we will comply with the credit requirements. In climates with freezing temperatures over the winter months, water based duct sealants (which comply with VOC limits) are not acceptable for use due to the fact that they will crack when frozen. Oil-based sealants (which do not comply with VOC limits) are required in freezing weather until the building is enclosed and thermally controlled. It is not clear to this project team whether or not SSc4.1 would apply to sealing the duct work. When, during the construction process, does SSc4.1 start to apply, and does SSc4.1 apply to duct sealants?