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Technical · 5 min read

The biggest envelope risks sit between packages

Water, fire, movement and thermal continuity rarely respect subcontract boundaries. Interfaces need one coordinated design view.

A roof can be compliant. A curtain wall can be compliant. A rainscreen can be compliant. The junction between them can still leak, bridge, move incorrectly or break the fire strategy.

Package boundaries are not performance boundaries

Water paths, air barriers, cavity barriers, insulation, movement joints and structural load paths continue through trade boundaries. Each interface needs a named design owner and evidence of compatibility.

Set the control line

A coordinated section should show the controlling substrate, tolerances, membranes, insulation continuity, support zones, fixings, drainage routes and sealant geometry. Dimensions and assumptions need to be testable on site.

Design for tolerance and sequence

A detail that works only at nominal dimensions is not ready. The review should include surveyed position, construction tolerance, access, temporary condition and the order in which each component can actually be installed.

Practical next step: hold a dedicated interface review using a short register of junctions, owners, open evidence, worst cases and site hold points.

Tell us about the project.

Include the current stage, the envelope package and the support you need.

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