Building Envelope

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Enclosure materials influence embodied carbon goals. This means that selecting and designing for low-carbon enclosure materials is important for reducing the overall embodied carbon impact of the building. It is important to note that using heavier enclosure assemblies may require additional structural support, increasing the embodied carbon associated with the building structure.

Insulated metal panels are increasingly the preferred building envelope solution for these plants because of their versatility that includes thermal efficiency, temperature control, design flexibility, safety, ease of installation, durability and more.

This article will illuminate a few critical design considerations, including substrate selection; use of proper joining methods, flashings, solder, and sealants; natural weathering and other finishes; and staining and corrosion control and prevention.

Transparent glazing, whether window assemblies or full curtain wall assemblies, can help designers achieve a complex set of performance criteria with one product, eliminating redundant systems and streamlining construction.

Fire codes help owners protect their buildings from property-destroying blazes. Those codes, however, are often set to a minimum standard for fire safety and are not always representative of best practices. One of those instances surrounds codes related to fire-rated floor doors. 

With questions of coating compatibility, sealing strategies, abatement procedures, and maintainability not seen in framed walls or masonry facades, the task of refurbishing these structures is a rapidly developing field in restoration technology.

Built environments are essential for human health, safety, and comfort. Properly constructed buildings enable us to live and thrive in any natural environment, many of which would be otherwise virtually unlivable.

The journey to cleaner energy, healthier buildings and reduced emissions begins with retrofits. It’s essential to install renewable energy for businesses. However, reducing energy consumption first is more crucial because it tackles the root of the problem. 

In our Summer 2023 issue, you’re going to read a lot about facility design. A strong understanding of what type of building your designing is important to ensure the facility is able to perform properly and is suitable for the end-use.

Although much has been said and written regarding the IRA and what it does and does not accomplish, the implications for the building design and construction industry may remain unclear.