Stretch Energy Code Envelope Part 1: Exploring the Basics
About the Training
In order to reach the net zero emissions goals of Massachusetts, designers need to focus on the key role the envelope plays in load reduction. This starts with the passive design principles of air tightness, continuous high thermal layer, and condensation control. This session will explain the prescriptive envelope requirements of the Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code, detail the methods for determining u-factors of assemblies, and demonstrate calculating the component performance calculation. While some portions of this course may be applicable to low-rise residential buildings the course will focus on commercial and multifamily buildings that fall under the 225 CMR 23.00 code.
This training is eligible for 2 AIA LU / HSW continuing education credits.
This is a live, online training led by instructors from RDH Building Science Inc.
Lucas Nahrgang, PE, is a Principal and Building Science Specialist with the RDH Boston team. He is a Principal for both new construction and existing buildings projects, including rehabilitation and renewal projects for existing buildings and enclosure and energy consulting on new construction projects. Lucas performs a variety of services on these projects, including energy code and decarbonization consulting, enclosure design review, detail development, performance specifying, construction review, and field troubleshooting.”
Andrew Steingiser, RA, CPHC, LEED AP, is the Passive House lead in RDH’s Boston office and a Senior Project Architect. Andrew engages building owners and design teams as an early-phase design partner, consulting with them on scalable climate-resilient solutions. He champions operational and embodied carbon reduction of the built environment through clean, resilient, and future-proof buildings. An expert on local and regional regulations, Andrew helps RDH’s clients future proof their projects.
Learning Objectives
1. Define U-value, thermal bridging and understand the difference between nominal, clear-field and derated U-values
2. Understand prescriptive pathway limitations and the triggers for the component performance alternative.
3. Demonstrate derating exercise for the purposes of prescriptive code compliance, as well as the component performance alternative.
4. Become familiar with resources and tools for calculating derating per the Stretch Code.
5. Understand considerations for increased insulation in wall assemblies with regard to building physics.
6. Examine examples of documentation of Stretch Code requirements in Architectural drawing sets and specifications.
7. Understand the role of Comcheck among the component performance alternative and energy modeling requirements.
Funding Grants Available: Submit by November 25th, 2026
The Express Grant is designed to help businesses respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID#: C-11528
Course Provider: Built Environment Plus
Course Cost: $175 per course per trainee
Express Grant Eligibility
Employers with 100 or fewer Massachusetts, W-2 employees are eligible to receive Express Program grants. Express Program grant applications must be submitted no fewer than 21 days before the training date. The following documentation is required to apply:
Signed Form W-9
Certificate of Good Standing (COGS) from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, dated within 6 months from the date of application submission
Certificate of Compliance from the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) that is not expired on the date of application submission
The contracting period of approved Express Grants begins 21 days after the grant application date and ends one year from this date. All training must be completed within the contract period to be eligible for reimbursement.
Registering on Behalf of Employees
If you are applying for Express funding and registering on behalf of employees at your organization, please check “as Company” on the checkout page to receive a copy of the receipt.
*Review the BE+ Workforce Training Grant webpage for additional eligibility requirements and other updates made by the Commonwealth Corporation.
Please note that the Express Grant does not cover Optional Exam Prep Resource Add-on or the exam fee itself.
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
Full refunds are available only if written notice is provided 7 days prior to course start date. There will be no refund if less than one week’s notice is given.
Please note: Full refunds will be issued less the standard processing fee. In general, rescheduling is always preferred over refunds. Registration transfers are only allowed for rescheduling to a future training and cannot be transferred between individuals.
Don’t see a financial assistance option that meets your needs? Reach out to education@builtenvironmentplus.org to learn more about leveraging the opportunities available to you. Bulk discounts are available for 5 or more attendees at once.
BE+ is committed to providing accessible events. If you have a disability and require accommodation in order to fully participate, please indicate in your registration and we will reach out to you. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
