Building Science - Building
Envelope
"Building scientists
have learned that buildings work as a system of interrelated
elements."
—EPA,
Montana State University, USDA
Building Sciences is the study of how buildings
function under various environmental conditions. Some of the
key elements are moisture movement, relative
humidity, pressurization, air
leakage, temperature and
the building envelope itself.
Building Envelope
The building
envelope refers to all external building materials, window
and walls that enclose the internal living space. Homes are
built tighter to control air leakage and improve energy use,
but tighter construction limits much-needed air exchanges.
If the envelope isn't constructed of "breathable" materials,
stale air and pollutants tend to be retained and re-circulated
via the HVAC duct system.
Ultimately, structure, ventilation and filtration
all influence the performance of the entire system. Indoor air
quality can be greatly improved by using the proper design strategy
and good building materials. Mechanical systems should be designed
and installed by trained experts aimed toward protecting the
health, quality of life and productivity of the building occupants.
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