Masonry Weep Systems: Best Practices and Details
This article covers advanced methods, materials, and considerations for masonry weep systems: best practices and details in modern construction. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, EnvelopeIQ earns from qualifying purchases. Expanded Guidance This article on Masonry Weep Systems: Best Practices and Details includes key strategies for envelope continuity, product selection, code compliance, and typical failures to avoid. Systems […]
EIFS Drainage Systems and WRB Compatibility
This article covers advanced methods, materials, and considerations for eifs drainage systems and wrb compatibility in modern construction. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, EnvelopeIQ earns from qualifying purchases. Expanded Guidance This article on EIFS Drainage Systems and WRB Compatibility includes key strategies for envelope continuity, product selection, code compliance, and typical failures to avoid. Systems are described […]
Control Joint Spacing Guidelines in Exterior Cladding Systems
Control joints prevent cracking and buckling due to thermal movement, substrate shrinkage, and structural shifts. Learn spacing guidelines by cladding type and detail options. Overview Exterior cladding expands and contracts under solar and seasonal loading. Control joints help relieve stress and guide crack locations. Joint spacing varies by material and substrate behavior. Spacing by System […]
Designing Tapered Roof Insulation Systems for Drainage
Tapered insulation solves the dual challenge of flat roof drainage and thermal performance. Learn how to design and lay out tapered systems using industry best practices. Overview Low-slope roofs rarely have structural slope. Tapered insulation provides positive slope to drains while achieving thermal resistance. Typical slope values are 1/8″ or 1/4″ per foot using polyiso […]
Sealant and Gasket Strategies for Insulated Metal Panel Joints
Insulated metal panels (IMPs) rely on panel-to-panel joints to prevent leaks and air loss. This article reviews sealant, gasket, and mechanical strategies for performance and longevity. Overview IMPs feature interlocking joints that often include factory-applied gaskets and require jobsite sealant to complete the barrier. These joints must account for thermal movement, air pressure, and moisture […]
Roof Drainage Design and Overflow Protection Strategies
Flat roof systems require more than membrane waterproofing—they need engineered drainage to prevent ponding and overflow. This article outlines roof drain layout, slope, and overflow considerations. Overview Roof drainage design starts with minimum slopes of 1/4″ per foot, per code. Strategically placed primary drains and overflow relief measures prevent ponding and roof collapse. Drainage must […]
Vapor Retarder Placement Based on Climate and Wall Type
Vapor retarders can trap moisture if placed incorrectly. This article explains where and when to use them in different climates and wall assemblies to prevent interior condensation and structural damage. Overview Unlike air barriers, vapor retarders control water vapor diffusion—not air movement. Their placement depends on temperature and humidity differentials across the wall and must […]
Thermal Breaks at Balcony Slabs and Cantilevered Projections
Balconies and cantilevers act like radiator fins if not thermally broken. Learn how to incorporate structural thermal breaks into your envelope design. Overview Concrete balcony slabs extend through the thermal control plane, causing massive heat loss and condensation risk. Structural thermal breaks isolate the slab thermally while still transferring load. This article explores common systems […]
Flashing Methods for Pipe and Mechanical Penetrations
Penetrations are weak points in the envelope if not flashed properly. Learn methods to seal around pipes, conduit, and equipment with confidence. Overview Penetrations introduce complex shapes into flat membranes, requiring multi-part flashing strategies. Standardized methods help installers avoid reliance on field improvisation. Pre-molded boots and tapes should be combined with sealants and WRB-integrated solutions. […]
Understanding the 4 Control Layers of the Building Envelope
The building envelope serves four key roles: control of water, air, vapor, and heat. This article explains the function and placement of each control layer for energy efficiency and durability. Overview Control layers act like filters and barriers—managing moisture, air pressure, and temperature differences between indoors and outdoors. Misalignment or poor installation of these layers […]
