Building Envelope
The articles below present design considerations and principles that can assist architects in providing more durable envelopes.
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Design, Selection and Commissioning of Window Installations
The learning objectives of this article are to describe the different window rating systems and design parameters, how to specify windows and how to test and commission them. The differences between "rated" and actual field performance of windows is explained.
Keeping Walls Dry — Part 1
Keeping Walls Dry — Part 2This article examines the design considerations which help ensure that walls stay dry over their lifetime.
Air Pressure and the Building EnvelopeThis article discusses how stack effect, fan pressurization, wind, barometric and thermal cycling result in poorly understood air pressure mechanisms of moisture movement and problems in building envelopes.
Daylighting Guide for Buildings
This continuing education article for architects describes the principles and benefits of design for daylighting, the design challenges, how to perform basic daylight calculations, and where to find web tools for more advanced design issues.
Design Considerations for an Air Barrier System
Problems of air leakage control, the concepts of air leakage paths and air pressure differences, the design requirements of air barriers systems, the properties of air barrier materials and systems, the building code requirements, the design of air and vapour barriers. Notes on the preparation of drawings and specifications and site review considerations.
Guidelines for Delivering Effective Air Barrier Systems
How to install effective air barriers in buildings.
The Rain Screen Wall System
The rain screen principle and the process of pressure equalization. Parameters for determining how to vent a rain screen properly. Ten key features to look for in rain screen details.
Glass and Aluminum Curtain Wall Systems
Components of modern curtain walls, design features, performance and durability characteristics. Technology of curtain wall design with respect to air leakage control, rain penetration control, heat loss (or gain) control and condensation control. Testing of a new curtain wall system design.
Design Guidelines for Green Roofs
Introduction to green roof infrastructure. Describes how to implement and market a green roof, looks at costs and presents three case studies.
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