This is far from finished but here is what I have to date on my abstract outline. I know it is a bit jumbled but I will continue to revise and add to it as time goes on.
ABSTRACT OUTLINE
By researching different wall assemblies, is it possible to determine which type used in residential construction is best at preventing heat loss in a climate such as Kamloops? It is hard to tell at this point but hopefully this research will lead to a definite answer. However, exploring a topic such as this is a lot more difficult than just going to a table and looking up R-Values for various materials. There are many variables that should be considered before coming to a conclusion. Such variables could include providing restrictions as to how wide the wall can be. For example, a 4’-0” wide wall of straight insulation may be great in terms of thermal resistance, but is it really practical? Not only would this cost a fortune for an entire building to be constructed, but it would also be a great habitat for mould growth. As the research comes closer to a conclusion, there will be clear guidelines as to which types of walls are practical for this investigation, and which types aren’t.
By knowing which type of wall is going to provide the best thermal resistance, it will be simple to significantly reduce the amount of energy that is being used by residential homes in this modern day and age. This report is only going to examine the thermal resistances of varying wall assemblies in the local construction industry. Statistics show that an average of 35% of the heat lost in a home comes through the walls. Even if the research could reduce that number to 20%, homeowners would save bundles on their heat bills throughout each year. By designing green, there is a great opportunity to decrease the carbon footprint that is being caused by residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The intention of sustainable design is to "eliminate negative environmental impact completely through skillful, sensitive design”. Although it may not be possible it entirely eliminate the negative impacts, everything that can be done to help reduce them should be considered. This research will hopefully serve as a stepping stone towards greener design in the future of the construction industry.
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As you have mentioned, this is quite disorganized. I think this may be because your topic is still not well defined. The question of what is the best wall assembly at preventing heat loss is very open ended. The answer is the one with the best insulation and air sealing. How will these factors be measured and compared? what kinds of wall assemblies will be looked at? There are an infinite number if you include different types of claddings and finishes. You really need to focus this research so that you are looking at something new. For example, what is the most efficient wall system for a home where the building footprint is limited?
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