![]() ![]() Historically, building envelope analyses have been performed by the architect alone or perhaps through a BES working quietly alongside the architect in the shadows. “Sometimes it’s just a matter of code consulting - meeting the requirements of the code and then moving on.” “There are different degrees of reticence,” he says, when describing the BES’ role. “They recognise that they are front-loading the cost of long-lasting performance for an asset that they are going to own for its entire life.”īondzio says that in contrast, the objective of most commercial developments today is getting a building completed and occupied as quickly as possible. Institutional clients, such as governments, universities and colleges, seem to be more understanding and accepting of the science and the extra services a BES offers,” he says. The degree to which the BES and their assessments relate to projects is also driven largely by clients, says Ben Bondzio, of Entuitive Corporation. ![]() Not all carry equal weight in any given project - they can vary in importance depending on the building’s setting, location and climate. There is a comprehensive menu of components to be considered: water and vapour control, air control, thermal control, fire safety, acoustics, day-lighting, system maintainability, and durability. While this can be conducted on an existing building at low initial cost, assessments are now more commonly based on advanced computer modelling when the building is still in the design stage. What does a BES do? They develop assessment reports that evaluate a building envelope’s condition and performance. The design and integration of these elements play a key role in determining the level of occupancy comfort, how much energy will be required for heating and cooling, and the life expectancy of the structure itself. “Building envelope” is a term that describes all outer elements of a structure -walls, windows, roof, and foundation. Their increasing impact on designers, contractors, owners and developers is very much a function of a regulatory environment that sees Canada moving towards higher levels of energy-efficiency and durability by 2030. ![]() A new player is gaining prominence on construction projects across the country the Building Envelope Specialist (BES). ![]()
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