The Anatomy of Building Envelopes – Overview of Components & benefits

The building envelope includes exterior walls, roofs, windows, doors, and foundations, it plays an important role in sheltering building components and acts as a water, air, thermal, and structural barrier.

COMPONENTS​​

• ROOF
• WALLS

*MASONRY WALLS

*THRU WALL FLASHING SYSTEM

• COPING CAP JOINTS
• MASONRY CONTROL JOINTS
• EXPANSION JOINTS
• EXTERIOR INSULATION AND FINISHING SYSTEM
• FENESTRATION SYSTEM

WATER AND WATER VAPOUR CONTROL

The main purpose of the roof is to resist water. Flat roofs are designed to resist standing water and pitched roofs to drain water. Pitched roofs are covered with a material beneath the roof covering as a second layer of defense. Roof construction may also be ventilated to remove moisture from leakage.

Walls do not get water exposure like roofs but still leak water. Barrier, drainage, and sealed surface walls can help with water penetration. Barrier walls absorb water but do not penetrate the walls, drainage walls allow water to drain out like cavity walls and surface-sealed walls do not allow water penetration at the exterior surface.

Basement proofing and drainage keeps walls dry and does not allow moisture to enter basements through walls.

AIR CONTROL

To ensure indoor air quality, condensation, and energy consumption control of airflow is important. Air control includes control of wind washing and convective loops. Air sealing can improve energy efficiency by minimizing the amount of energy needed to heat or cool the building. HVAC systems can ensure that building air intake is safe and adequate and it is energy efficient.

THERMAL ENVELOPE

This is a part of the building envelope but in a different location ceiling. The insulated attic floor is a thermal control layer between the inside of the house and the exterior. It is constructed to protect the building from harsh environmental conditions and provide thermal comfort. If the thermal envelope is not sealed properly the HVAC will end up working overtime to heat and cool the house.

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