The Importance of Third-Party Building Enclosure Consultants in the Construction Process.
Building enclosures play a crucial role in determining a structure's energy efficiency, durability, and overall performance. As the construction industry continues to evolve, it is essential for building owners and developers to recognize the value of hiring third-party consultants for building enclosure services. This case study highlights the importance of incorporating an independent building enclosure consultant during the construction process. Key factors include but are not limited to:
Enhanced Quality Control and Performance: Third-party consultants provide an impartial perspective on the design and construction of building enclosures, ensuring that they meet the required standards. In a study conducted by the National Institute of Building Sciences, it was found that engaging third-party enclosure consultants during the construction process can result in a 20-30% reduction in enclosure-related performance issues.
Cost Savings and Risk Mitigation: By detecting potential problems early, third-party consultants can help avoid costly repairs and potential legal issues in the future. The New York Times reported that construction defect claims cost the U.S. construction industry over $5 billion annually, with building envelope failures being a significant contributor. Hiring a third-party consultant can help minimize these risks, saving both time and money.
Improved Energy Efficiency: A well-designed building enclosure is critical to achieving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, buildings account for nearly 40% of total U.S. energy consumption. Third-party consultants can identify and address energy inefficiencies in the building envelope, resulting in potential energy savings of up to 10-15%.
Compliance with Building Codes and Regulations: An independent building enclosure consultant can help ensure that the building meets or exceeds the local and national building codes and regulations. This compliance not only protects the building owner from potential fines and penalties but also contributes to the structure's overall safety and performance.
Increased Marketability and Property Value: A well-performing building with a high-quality enclosure system can increase the property's marketability and value. A study by the Urban Land Institute found that buildings with superior energy efficiency and high-quality enclosures can command a premium of up to 10% compared to similar properties.
Hiring a third-party consultant for building enclosure services during the construction process can significantly impact a building's overall performance, energy efficiency, and long-term value. By providing impartial assessments, identifying potential problems early, and ensuring compliance with codes and regulations, third-party consultants can greatly benefit building owners and developers, ultimately contributing to more sustainable and resilient structures.
Resources
NIBS. (2008, January 1). High performance buildings - national institute of building sciences. from https://www.nibs.org/files/pdfs/NIBS_HighPerformanceBuilding_2008.pdf.
Altenhofen, D.W.(2017, January 27) Energy saving made easy: pluck low hanging fruit. The American institute of Architects. From Energy saving made easy: Pluck low hanging fruit – AIA.
