Your Guide to an Energy-Efficient Building Envelope

A building envelope refers to the physical barrier between the exterior and interior environments. This includes the foundation, walls, windows and doors. It has two primary functions: to provide structural support for the building and to protect the interior space from natural elements like rain, wind, heat and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. A building envelope also serves a secondary but still very important purpose: to provide aesthetic appeal.

What Makes a Good Building Envelope?

A house with a good building envelope has to be structurally sound, use designs and materials that are climate-appropriate, and is aesthetically pleasing in general.

The building envelope also affects how energy is used within a building. A “tight” building envelope restricts air leaks to keep cold air from coming in and warm air coming out, which is preferred in cooler climates. In this scenario, a tight building envelope can help reduce heating costs. On the other hand, the right design and material of the exterior can also block out heat when needed to help save on cooling costs.

How Can I Improve My Building Envelope?

Here are the ways you can improve your building envelope to increase its energy efficiency.

1. For window installation, use energy-efficient glass. Triple-pane and low-E windows block the heat from entering the home during summer so your air conditioning system will not have to work hard. During winter, they prevent the heat from escaping through the window. This will give you energy savings all year long.
2. Ensure that the exteriors are tightly sealed.
3. Siding installation experts recommend insulated products like the Sequoia Select® EnFusion™ ultra-premium insulated vinyl siding. This provides superior insulation and a great finish.
4. Consider using light-colored or reflective roofing if living in a warmer area.
5. Ensure that your exterior home contractors do custom-made entry doors. Doors that fit perfectly will help avoid air leaks. Consider using a steel door filled with polyurethane foam for extra insulation.

If you are planning to make your home more energy-efficient, you can turn to Lincoln Exterior Renovations. We provide personalized service for you. Call us today at (403) 275-4871, or fill out our contact form to set up a consultation.