Presentation Overview

Tuesday, MAY 5, 10:00AM-11:00AM
Lakeshore Ballroom

As building energy codes become increasingly stringent, improving the building enclosure to reduce air infiltration and thermal losses has become essential. One of the most common sources of uncontrolled air leakage is the transition between the air barrier and fenestrations or other wall openings. Although air barriers have been required by the International Building Code (IBC) for some time, the design documents often still do not provide continuity or redundancy in the connections. Frequently, discontinuities are related to a lack of understanding of the differences in the moisture management systems and primary seal locations for each system. This presentation will explore the design and detailing of air barrier connections at fenestrations, highlighting how the different fenestration systems affect detailing.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Identify common sources of air leakage at curtain wall and storefront interfaces and explain their impact on overall building performance.
  2. Evaluate current industry standards and best practices for detailing air barrier transitions.
  3. Recognize the importance of early design coordination among manufacturers, designers, and contractors to achieve continuous air barrier systems.
  4. Apply design and detailing strategies that improve product compatibility, constructability, and airtightness at fenestration openings.

Derek Ziese, Gale Associates

Derek Ziese, AIA, PE, BECxP is a registered architect and engineer at Gale Associates, Inc., with over 15 years of experience in the design, peer review, construction, and commissioning of high-performance building enclosure systems for new and historic buildings. His background in design and construction informs his practical approach to enclosure consulting. Derek collaborates with owners, architects, and contractors to develop façade strategies that balance performance and constructability. He has presented at ABAA and other industry conferences on topics related to building enclosure design and field performance.