Question

What is meant by the term building envelope and why is there a need to understand how the construction sector adapts the building envelope

Answer 1

Simply building envelope defines the separation of interior of house with the exterior.

There are various components involved

•exterior wall

•foundation

•windows

•doors etc.

Building envelope have severe effect on residents of the building.

There are factors which influence building envelope are:

• Building location and climate;

• function of building

• Building codes

• The availability of construction materials and onsites all the building componentsthat separate the indoors from outdoor.

Better building envelope would optimise

• Energy efficiency

• Sustainable site practices

• Efficient use of water

• Better indoor environmental quality

Building envelope includes

a) thermal insulation

b) wind insulation

c) rain insulation

Thermal bridging

In certain areas where temperature is very low thermal insulation using various insulators are used which enhances the comfort of the people living.

Construction section adapt this practice of thermal insulation because this have direct impact on people's health and comfort.