The trend toward the aesthetic decision to have an open plenum environment has created questions about trade offs, especially performance and cost. CISCA completed a Life Cycle Study comparing cost and performance considerations for continuous ceilings and open plenum environments. A description of that study and the results follow.

The CISCA Life Cycle Study is modeled on two different building types (office and retail) in five different markets, reflecting differences in energy costs, construction/installation costs and climate zones. Markets included Chicago, Charlotte, Oklahoma City, Orlando and Phoenix.

This four-page brochure highlights the findings of the CISCA study comparing cost and performance considerations for continuous ceilings and open plenum environments. It is a handy resource showing outcomes of the study.