Introduction
Energy usage and savings has become a major factor in the design of buildings. The performance of buildings is important for the design life of the building and contributes to cost incurred in the long run. The article provides a summary of research findings on the benefits of exterior energy improvements and provides reasons why it is important to construct a building envelope energy evaluation. The purpose of carrying out an energy evaluation is developing the best approach when doing an improvement project on a building.
John L. Pierson who is an engineering services manager with over 17 years experience in the construction industry writes the article. The author’s background and expertise in construction material testing, design of architectural and structural building systems and construction consulting provides credibility for the article.
The publishing of the article was in the Design Cost Data website. The audiences relating to this article include students, building developers, engineers as well as contractors. Students can benefit highly from the insights provided in this article. For instance, in design of economic and highly performing structures, students are able to gain knowledge on why some new buildings may be energy inefficient. Furthermore, they can learn firsthand from experience of an engineer with vast experience in the building industry. Additionally, students are in a position to be more serious in issues such as detailing of buildings, as improper detailing is a source of energy inefficiencies. It reinforces the idea of the importance of basics or fundamentals in structural engineering. Building developers who have older buildings or are planning to construct new ones can apply the knowledge shared in this article to save costs in terms of repairs resulting from interior damages. Return on investment is a major concern for the developers as such information such as a good moisture control system on this article provides valuable insight. Engineers gather pertinent procedures for conducting building envelope energy evaluations.
The article is mainly beneficial to buildings that have aged. According to the author, the best application is in buildings whose envelope has aged and this is mostly buildings that have been in existence for over 20 years. Energy is being lost at a high rate because of the inefficiencies of systems and units installed in the building. For instance, worn out sealants in windows, doors, and water leaks contribute significantly to energy loss. Additionally, newer buildings can experience significant energy loss in cases where there are not properly detailed and insulated.
The article is addressing current events that are affect existing buildings and those being developed. Furthermore, Pierson notes that benefits of using efficient building envelopes are not only financial. Additional benefits that come with improving the energy efficiency of buildings may include modernization of appearance, increased comfort for the users and increased value of a facility.
Conclusion
The article provides critical information that is relevant to the building industry. One can easily relate the information to other sources in books. The fundamental aspect of this article to the course is that it enlightens an engineer’s approach to designing of structures for efficiency. The reason for choosing this article is that energy has become a very important topic in the 21st century. Research on new ways to save energy is currently increasing. The information here provides a more cheaper and reasonable approach to energy saving
However, despite the author’s experience there is no mention of research articles or books supporting the information provided in the article. One can conclude that the information provided in the article is solely based on the author’s opinions and other professionals may see this as lacking credibility.
References
Pierson, J. (n.d.). DCD Insights | Energy Focus on the Building Enclosure. Retrieved November 6, 2014, from http://www.dcd.com/insights/energy_focus_on_t
