In an effort to maintain a more efficient work space, Pickering Associates recently completed major renovations at their Emerson Avenue campus, in Parkersburg, WV. The project was accomplished with the help of a USDA REAP grant which provided partial funding for the improvements made to Building 1.
“Our 30 year old building was built with the appropriate commercial technologies at the time: R-11 exterior walls, aluminum-framed windows, R-19 roof insulation and 85% efficient HVAC systems,” explains Dr. Charles “Chip” Pickering. “Additionally, the roof and wall panels had deteriorated and were in need of replacement. We took the opportunity to upgrade several different systems in order to improve the energy use of the building, make it more comfortable for occupants, and improve the exterior façade.”
The Energy efficiency improvements included adding additional insulation and new siding to the entire building and a stone façade around the base to extend the life of the building, as well as a new metal roof with extra insulation. All windows and doors were replaced, and new entrances were created with high-efficiency glazing. New landscaping was installed to re-route surface water away from the building.
On the interior, newer HVAC systems on the upper floor were relocated and re-ducted to provide better zoning for heating and cooling distribution, while HVAC systems on the lower floor were upgraded to increase efficiency. LED lighting was installed in the conference room and on the building’s exterior. Altogether, the net effect of the energy improvements mean that the building will use less than half of the energy it was consuming prior to being renovated!
The next phase is currently being developed, and will include the installation of a new solar array carport system in the upper lot with four electric car charging stations to accommodate current and future electric vehicle users.