Improving Building Envelope Performance

Changes to the Building Regulations, together with rising energy prices, have pushed energy efficiency to the top of the building client’s agenda, raising important issues for the specification and installation of the building envelope.  While these issues are especially relevant to designers and contractors involved directly with cladding systems, all members of the construction team need to understand their role in delivering energy efficient buildings together with good value for their clients.

This was the message at the heart of the recent launch of the new SCI publication P346 Best practice for the specification and installation of metal cladding and secondary steelwork held at the Institution of Structural Engineers on 24 January 2007.  In addition to formally launching the new book, the aims of the event were to promote a greater understanding of the issues faced by the construction team and to improve co-operation between those players involved in the design and construction of the envelope and supporting structure.  The latter aim was reflected in the choice of speakers: Architect Doug Emslie from Michael Sparks Associates; Senior Designer Mick Reed from Billington Structures; Brian Watson Commercial Director of CA Building Products and author of the publication Dr Martin Heywood from SCI. 

Although each of the speakers spoke regarding the issues from his own professional perspective, it was encouraging to hear the same message time and again:  The essential ingredient in the delivery of the quality of construction demanded by today’s clients is teamwork.  According to the speakers, the need for teamwork between the various trades and professions is reinforced by the need for interaction between building components to allow the structure and envelope to function properly.  For instance, in supporting the roof loads, the purlins rely on the cladding to provide lateral restraint, making the correct installation of the cladding an important requirement for structural safety.  However, the cladding cannot be installed properly if the supporting purlins are twisted or out of line.  Since different people are usually responsible for the specification and installation of these components, there is a clear need for co-operation, teamwork and a mutual appreciation of the issues facing the members of the construction team.

SCI publication P346 considers these issues in detail and presents practical guidance that will enable the project team to meet the demands of the latest Building Regulations and deliver energy efficient and sustainable buildings using metal cladding systems. 

Contact:

Dr Martin Heywood
Manager Construction Technology
Tel: 01344 636578
E-mail: m.heywood@steel-sci.com