Insulated Metal Panels for Commercial Walls
Learn how insulated metal panels (IMPs) enhance thermal, air, and vapor control in modern commercial wall construction. Discover top products, performance insights, and code-compliant installation tips. Overview Insulated metal panels (IMPs) are high-performance wall systems combining structural integrity, insulation, and exterior cladding into a single panel. Widely used in commercial and industrial buildings, IMPs streamline […]
Top Curtain Wall Systems for Commercial High-Rise Projects
Explore how unitized and stick-built curtain wall systems function in modern high-rise construction. Understand product selection, installation, and code compliance. Overview Curtain wall systems define the architectural identity of commercial skyscrapers. These systems, while non-structural, serve as the critical interface between a building’s structure and the exterior environment, managing air, moisture, and thermal movement. In […]
Fire-Rated Envelope Assemblies: Detailing for NFPA 285 Compliance
NFPA 285 governs the fire propagation characteristics of exterior wall assemblies that include combustible components. This article explains when it applies, how to design compliant systems, and what materials and strategies are typically used to meet code requirements in high-rise and mid-rise buildings. When NFPA 285 is Required Designing a Compliant Wall Assembly Firestopping and […]
Exterior Gypsum Sheathing: Types, Detailing, and Protection
Exterior gypsum sheathing is widely used in non-combustible wall assemblies for its fire resistance and compatibility with WRB systems. This article reviews the types, installation methods, edge and fastener detailing, and temporary moisture protection strategies. Types of Exterior Gypsum Sheathing Installation Guidelines Moisture Protection and WRB Integration Field QA and Long-Term Performance Sheathing should be […]
Masonry Control Joint Placement and Detailing
Properly designed and installed control joints are critical to accommodate shrinkage and thermal movement in masonry walls. This guide outlines placement strategies, expansion spacing, sealant detailing, and QA for durable control joints in CMU, brick, and stone veneers. Why Masonry Control Joints Matter Placement Guidelines by Material Joint Design and Sealant Detailing Quality Control and […]
Liquid-Applied WRBs: Application, Curing, and Compatibility
Liquid-applied weather-resistive barriers (WRBs) offer continuous, monolithic protection across exterior walls. This article outlines best practices for application, substrate preparation, curing requirements, and compatibility with adjacent materials. Advantages of Liquid WRBs Application Requirements Curing and Inspection Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, EnvelopeIQ earns from qualifying purchases.
Detailing for Thermal Bridging at Floor Lines and Shelf Angles
Uninsulated floor lines, slab edges, and steel shelf angles are among the most common sources of thermal bridging in commercial and multifamily buildings. This article explores best practices for detailing and mitigating these thermal bridges to improve building performance. Common Thermal Bridge Locations Design and Detailing Solutions Air and Vapor Control at Floor Lines Air […]
Exterior Wall Insulation: Mineral Wool vs. Rigid Foam Panels
Continuous exterior insulation (ci) is a core strategy for improving building envelope performance. This article compares two common ci materials—mineral wool and rigid foam board—for energy performance, moisture resistance, fire rating, and constructability. Material Properties Comparison Thermal Performance Installation Considerations Code Compliance and Fire Ratings Best Practices and QA Choice of material should be driven […]
Liquid Flashing vs. Flashing Tape: Application and Performance
Choosing the right flashing material for penetrations, joints, and transitions is key to the durability of the building envelope. This article compares liquid-applied flashing and self-adhered flashing tapes across application methods, performance, and best-use scenarios. Overview of Each Product Type Advantages of Liquid Flashing Advantages of Flashing Tape Limitations and Considerations Installation and QA Best […]
Transition Membranes at Foundation-to-Wall Interfaces
Foundation-to-wall interfaces are high-risk areas for air leakage, water intrusion, and thermal bridging. This article explains how to detail and install transition membranes to bridge these junctions and ensure a continuous building envelope. Why Transition Membranes Are Needed Membrane Installation Guidelines Material Compatibility and Detailing Choose membranes compatible with concrete, sheathing, and air barriers. Use […]
