Fernandez, Andy

Building Construction Illustrated –Ching / FBC Materials & Methods

Summary #8

 

In this reading, we learn about the importance of building exterior wall systems and their role of protection and prevention of outside elements to the interior spaces. Some of the numerous functions of the exterior walls involve keeping water out and preventing air leakage. The exterior wall serves to control heat conduction, sound transmission, water vapor, and temperature, resist fire and heat radiation among other factors. In many respects the modern exterior walls are similar to the human skin. They offer protection from water, heat and wind effects. Exterior walls must serve the effects of expansion and shrinkage of joint movements, building freeze/thaw, movement, wind / earthquake effects, corrosion and oxidation resistance and ultraviolet light effects. Some of the properties of the walls consist of air barriers, rainscreens, sealants and PEC (Pressure Equalized Chambers) and curtain walls. These smaller components offer protection from water penetration into the interior bays. Air barriers offer air from escaping or penetrating the interior while sealants block the passage of water from the outside environment. Some sealants offer resistance to expansion and shrinkage and therefore are great solutions to joint connections of structures. The rainscreen is a popular option in modern building wall cladding and serves as a shield to wind and rain. The application of the PEC in wall construction offers the control of air pressurization components to eliminate rain penetration thru small areas. Curtain walls are used as a layer of protection on the building frame. Overall, the exterior wall system is an array group of components that serves to protect the building interior just as the human skin does with thermal and water control.