Failure is Not an Option: Air Barrier Continuity Strategies for Storefront and Curtain Wall System

Track 1: Air Barriers

Wednesday, May 11, 3:30pm – 4:30pm

Critical details that typically cause building performance related issues will be focused on one of the largest failures of building enclosures: wall to window connections specific to curtain wall systems and storefronts. A step-by-step look at each critical detail in regards to sequence of construction and the various connections to ensure airtight/watertight and thermally protected details. Real life photos and job conditions will highlight the realities of the construction process to show typical errors found and how those errors can be addressed correctly.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Articulate how transitions impact building enclosure performance through real life experiences in regards to energy loss, building performance and the sustainability of the system.
  2. Correctly identify and prioritize critical details during the construction document phase to ensure an integrated approach is taken to heat, air, water and vapor control.
  3. Assess each detail for storefront and curtain wall in regards to impacts of the four control layers and understand the various options for designing details for a variety of roof, wall and window assemblies.
  4. Through the use of real life case studies and photos, plan out the proper sequence of construction and identify quality control methods in construction document review to provide corrective action.
Level of content:
Basic
100%

Andrew Dunlap, AIA, CDT, LEED AP, NCARB

SmithGroup, Ann Arbor, MI

Andrew Dunlap’s primary work experience is in the analysis and development of exterior building enclosures, including historic buildings. Exterior enclosure expertise is comprised of roofing, skylights, windows, curtain walls, rainscreen/cavity walls and waterproofing, and includes development of remediation options and construction documents for corrective work. Andrew’s work focuses on providing energy efficient designs as he regularly participates in validating designs for energy code compliance or to exceed code requirements. Project responsibilities include the collection of detailed building information, investigation and analysis of existing conditions, computerized thermal analysis of building systems (WUFI 5.2, THERM 7, WINDOW 7, and other software packages), formulation of remediation plans, preparation of construction documents for remediation, and construction contract administration including field observation and systems testing. This work often includes performing diagnostic field water tests as part of the forensic investigations or used to validate installed conditions.