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Building Envelope




Building envelope design includes four major performance objectives:
  • Structural integrity

  • Moisture control

  • Temperature control

  • Control of air pressure boundaries


Control of air includes air movement through the components of the building envelope (interstitial) itself, as well as into and out of the interior space, which affects Building Insulation greatly.

The physical components of the envelope include the Foundation , Roof , Wall s, Door s and Window s. The dimensions, performance and compatibility of materials, fabrication process and details, their connections and interactions are the main factors that determine the effectiveness and durability of the building enclosure system.

Common measures of the effectiveness of a building envelope include physical protection from weather and climate (comfort), indoor air quality (hygiene and public health), durability and energy efficiency. In order to achieve these objectives, all building enclosure systems must include a solid structure, a drainage plane, an air barrier, a thermal barrier, and may include a vapor barrier. Moisture control is essential in cold climates. See Dew Point , Condensation , and Toxic Mold .


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