Building Envelope

Photo by Andreas Lechtape, courtesy NBK Architectural Terracotta

The building envelope, or building enclosure, protects us and the building interior from the elements and enables occupant comfort. The building envelope includes the cladding, air barrier, weather barrier, thermal insulation, and other components.

Building Envelope

Deep Dives

Get up to speed on complex topics. You can also earn CEUs and download PDF Spotlight Reports.


Quick Takes

Jump straight to the essentials with these short explanations of green building concepts.


Product Guidance

Unbiased information from our product experts helps you separate green from greenwash.


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  • Blanket and Batt Insulation

    Product Guide

    Batts and aerogel blankets with high recycled content, reduced air-quality concerns, or superior performance

  • Blown Insulation

    Product Guide

    Blown-in products with high recycled content, superior energy performance, and low-toxicity ingredients

  • Board Insulation

    Product Guide

    These insulation products and thermal breaks provide superior thermal performance and avoid common chemical hazards.

  • New Blowing Agents Revolutionize XPS Industry

    Product Review

    Due to regulatory changes in Canada and certain U.S. states, manufacturers will be offering XPS with low global warming potential starting in 2021.

In The News

We break news down to the essentials and provide expert analysis.


Perspective

Thought-provoking opinions from the most trusted minds in sustainability.


Learning Resources

Syllabus supplements and CEU content, with automatic reporting for AIA and GBCI.


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  • The BuildingGreen Guide to Thermal Insulation

    Special Report

    The BuildingGreen Guide to Thermal Insulation, Fourth Edition, provides detailed guidance on insulation products and practices, including environmental and health comparisons, and recommendations on what insulation to use and what to avoid.

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