Building envelope means the complete set of
elements and components that are assembled in order to separate an internal
occupied space from the external environment, thus creating a comfortable,
habitable interior. (1), The building envelope is the interface between the
interior of the building and the outdoor environment, including the walls,
roof, and foundation. By acting as a thermal barrier, the building envelope
plays an important role in regulating interior temperatures and helps determine
the amount of energy required to maintain thermal comfort. Minimizing heat
transfer through the building envelope is crucial for reducing the need for
space heating and cooling. The building envelope can affect energy use and, consequently,
GHG emissions in a variety of ways as embodied energy, insulation and air
sealing, roofs, walls, windows, doors, and skylights.
THE ABC FOR SUSTAINABLE CITIES
UNEP / UN HABITAT / FIDIC / GI-REC
Based on:
Let’s speak sustainable
construction Multilingual Glossary
Graphic: Spray Foam Canada
