Specifying and Commissioning the Building Enclosure

Presented by: Julian Master, AIA, RIBA, CSI, CCS, LEED AP BD+C; HGA Architects and Engineers

                        Scott Teixeira, AIA, LEED AP, Sr. Associate, Hartman-Cox Architects
                        Michael Lewis, AIA, NCARB, FASTM, MEng, Facade Forensics, Inc.

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Description:

 

When should the enclosure commissioning be managed by the architectural and engineering team? When is a third-party envelope consultant the best choice? This panel discussion seeks to answer these questions. In the process, attendees will have a better understanding of the role that a carefully crafted specification plays in creating a well-built enclosure. The development of Building Enclosure Commissioning (BECx) as a strict quality-focused evaluation process is a positive development in the building industry. Yet the widespread popularity of engaging third-party Building Enclosure Commissioning Agents (BECxAs), architects and owners sometimes overlooks the fact that a third-party BECxA is not always be the best option for ensuring quality and performance.

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In this presentation, a panel of experts, including a specifier, architect, and enclosure consultant, explore alternatives for specifying QA/QC procedures, with and without third-party BECx Agents. Using a range of project experiences of various scales and types, we'll examine the viability --and effectiveness--of QA/QC procedures on different project types. Discussions will focus on the importance of clearly communicating the requirements for and sequence of QA/QC procedures, how to create detailed specifications, and the responsibilities of each of the involved parties. The builder must have a clear understanding of the entire process at bid time. One of our goals is to discuss the pathways that give this kind of clarity. Armed with a well-written and carefully edited specification, the most challenging enclosure projects can be effectively commissioned by the project’s enclosure consultant--without necessitating third-party investigation.
 

Learning Objectives:

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After attending this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the pros and cons of third-party enclosure commissioning 

• Discuss how the specifier, architect and facade consultant manage the QA/QC process

• Examine the role that a carefully crafted specification plays in creating a well-built enclosure

• Determine how the builder can receive a clearly written spec at bid time that will accurately guide the bid process 

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Event is free for members and $25 for non-members. Please click here​ to register.

AIA credits: 1.5 LUs