In this presentation, Richard will share the design principles being developed for the ASTM Structural Use of Glass standard, how they were implemented on the Seattle Space Needle, and how these new standards will allow architects and engineers to achieve bolder designs with lower risks.
Building envelope standards and practices have evolved over the past few decades in response to increased energy efficiency goals and a better understanding of Building Science. New materials, systems, and methods have been developed that reduce air leakage through building envelopes.
The building envelope is an integral part of architectural expression and is quickly becoming the innovative system utilized to realize carbon emission reduction goals. More and more the building envelope’s roofing, glazing, and waterproofing assemblies include Mass Timber.
Water-Resistive Barriers (WRBs) have evolved to serve compound forms and functions. Despite these advances, performance expectations still reflect over-simplistic assumptions and problematical testing methods. Interfaces with modern wall components also remain ill-defined with respect to the WRB’s primary function of liquid water resistance.