Reflections on the Window Wall

The glazed aluminum window wall synonymous with high-rise, multi-family residential construction reflects a continuing trend toward transparency within the practice of architecture, more typical of its commercial office building context. Through the window walls' aesthetic association to curtain wall, it appears to have created for itself a cost-driven niche throughout major United States cities, yet clear performance criteria and comprehensive details are still needed to ensure a successful project.
 

By: Fiona Aldous, Wiss, Janney, Elster Associates, Inc

Managing Moisture Risk – A risk management approach to moisture in building enclosures

The design intent of any building is to prevent moisture accumulation within the enclosure; notwithstanding, problems still occur when there is inadequate design details, workmanship, construction sequencing, and/or supervision.

By: Kevin Day, Building Science and Cladding Specialist, Halsall Associates Ltd
 

By: Ken Rauch, Building Technologist
 

Understanding Drainage Planes

Controlling rain is the single most important factor in the design and construction of durable buildings and in the control of mold. Drainage planes are used in the design and construction of building enclosures to control rain. All exterior claddings pass some rainwater. Siding leaks, brick leaks, stucco leaks, stone leaks, etc. As such, some control of this penetrating rainwater is required. In most walls, this penetrating rainwater is controlled by the drainage plane that directs the penetrating water downwards and outwards.

By: Joseph Lstiburek, Principal, Building Science Corporation