Building Envelope Design Guide   

Updated: 
10-14-2021

The National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) under guidance from the past Federal Envelope Advisory Committee developed this comprehensive guide for exterior envelope design and construction for institutional / office buildings. Any edits, revisions, updates or interest in adding new information should be directed to the Building Enclosure Technology & Environment Council (BETEC) through the 'Comment' link on this page.

Introduction

Below Grade Systems

Wall Systems

Fenestration Systems

Roofing Systems

Atria Systems

Related Materials

Related Resource Pages

The materials, components, and systems conveyed in these concept diagrams are intended to convey general design principles only. Any resemblance between these details and proprietary or otherwise commercially available materials, components and systems is purely coincidental and should in no way be considered an endorsement by NIBS and/or the individual authors who contributed to the content of this website.