Design Criteria and Solutions to Common Issues in Building Envelope Design

As third-party consultants, we retain a unique perspective through participation in the design, construction, assessment, and forensic analysis of building envelopes. Our familiarity with the building envelope has shown us that the performance and life span of a building is remarkably dependent on the quality of its design—not only in the selection of materials and systems but also in the quality of their detailing. Considering modern architectural building design, building envelope systems are now relied upon heavily in ways beyond their basic function as environmental control layers. High-risk areas such as elaborately designed green roofs raise the stakes yet further and threaten the integrity of the building envelope when function follows second to aesthetics. A few small decisions in how building envelope systems are implemented can mean the difference between a successful or failing design, and the difference may not be immediately obvious to the untrained eye. Cost is another factor, and often a limitation, guiding the design of facade, roofing, and waterproofing systems. Special attention also needs to be given to cost- or value-oriented decision-making in building envelope design. Having the correct knowledge and tools to design building envelope systems can offer protection against costly mistakes and provide balance between function and architectural appeal. By providing general design criteria and solutions to commonly observed issues, our objective is to afford others a better opportunity to identify potential issues and, ultimately, avoid problems that develop during the service life of a building.