Building Integrity Nurtured by Effective Envelope Design
The envelope includes the building’s foundation, walls, roof and entry points. Those components also play critical roles in the structural integrity of a building. A foundation needs to support the building while the walls provide stability. The doors and windows should open and close without binding or causing other issues.
Certain climate conditions can affect the structural performance of the building envelope. Engineers should account for any particular climate issues or other conditions when choosing the materials for a building’s foundation, walls, roof, doors and windows.
Impact of Building Envelope Design on Moisture Levels
Whether in the form of water or humidity, moisture can cause significant damage to a building. Prolonged exposure to moisture encourages mold growth and affects the strength of building materials, so the design of a building envelope needs to minimize the building’s chances of water incursion or excess humidity. Components that help to control moisture levels include drainage, barrier and diversion systems.
Barrier systems keep water out by protecting the outer surface of the building. Examples include exterior walls and glass windows.
Diversion systems direct water away from the building. Examples include downspouts, flashing and gutters. During a rainstorm or as snow melts, the water travels through the gutters and downspouts to an area far from the building.
Drainage systems collect water as it settles and allow it to flow away from the foundation. The French drain is one of the most common examples.
Ventilation and Airflow: Enhancements Enabled by Building Envelope Design
The building envelope’s design affects the ventilation or airflow through the structure. Air can lead to condensation and moisture buildup if not adequately controlled. Methods for improving ventilation and controlling a building’s airflow include installing moisture and air barriers, insulating the walls, and sealing doors, windows and other openings.
Improving a building envelope’s air control also reduces the amount of energy needed to heat and cool the building.
Building Integrity Nurtured by Effective Envelope Design
The envelope includes the building’s foundation, walls, roof and entry points. Those components also play critical roles in the structural integrity of a building. A foundation needs to support the building while the walls provide stability. The doors and windows should open and close without binding or causing other issues.
Certain climate conditions can affect the structural performance of the building envelope. Engineers should account for any particular climate issues or other conditions when choosing the materials for a building’s foundation, walls, roof, doors and windows.
Impact of Building Envelope Design on Moisture Levels
Whether in the form of water or humidity, moisture can cause significant damage to a building. Prolonged exposure to moisture encourages mold growth and affects the strength of building materials, so the design of a building envelope needs to minimize the building’s chances of water incursion or excess humidity. Components that help to control moisture levels include drainage, barrier and diversion systems.
Barrier systems keep water out by protecting the outer surface of the building. Examples include exterior walls and glass windows.
Diversion systems direct water away from the building. Examples include downspouts, flashing and gutters. During a rainstorm or as snow melts, the water travels through the gutters and downspouts to an area far from the building.
Drainage systems collect water as it settles and allow it to flow away from the foundation. The French drain is one of the most common examples.
Ventilation and Airflow: Enhancements Enabled by Building Envelope Design
The building envelope’s design affects the ventilation or airflow through the structure. Air can lead to condensation and moisture buildup if not adequately controlled. Methods for improving ventilation and controlling a building’s airflow include installing moisture and air barriers, insulating the walls, and sealing doors, windows and other openings.
Improving a building envelope’s air control also reduces the amount of energy needed to heat and cool the building.