FACADES -
MORE THAN
JUST BUILDING
ENVELOPES

Facade technology

ESTHETICS AND FUNCTION IN UNITY

Facades must meet the same high standards in both renovation and new construction. They must be energy-efficient and optimized in terms of building physics and structural engineering. At the same time, they must match the building’s character and be visually appealing.

Due to the complexity of this interaction, designing the ideal façade requires expert planning and calculation.

GLASS, ALUMINUM AND STEEL

As a structural engineer, we can calculate the statics of glass facades, the economic optimization of details in terms of load-bearing capacity, and the overall system’s statics.

SOUND, HEAT, MOISTURE, AND LIGHT

We also provide support  to assist with complex building physics issues, such as the effects of sound, heat, moisture, and light on the facade.

OUR SERVICES IN DETAIL

FACADE CONSTRUCTION PHYSICS – THERMAL PROTECTION:

  • Calculation of surface temperatures – 2D and 3D thermal bridge calculations
  • Prevention of condensation and mold formation
  • Temperatures inside the component
  • Evaluation of the moisture distribution within the facade construction
  • Double facades – heating of spaces
  • Energy efficiency of windows and facades
  • Heat transfer coefficient facade Ucw, window Uw, frame Uf, glass Ug, and edge bond ψ
  • Thermal bridge allowance ΔU, linear thermal bridges (2D) ψ, punctiform thermal bridges (3D) χ
  • Evaluation of solar gains and sun protection
  • Multiphysics simulations, flow analysis (CFD simulations)
  • Building and room simulations

FAÇADE PHYSICS – NOISE PROTECTION:

  • Specification of the requirements depending on the external noise exposure and the proportion of windows
  • Sound reduction index Rw of opaque and transparent components
  • Flanking level difference Dnfw of isolating components
  • Soundproofing of ventilation diffusers/soundproofing fans
  • Daylight supply and simulations
  • Airtightness of the facade envelope

FACADE STATICS:

  • Glass statics (windows, vestibules, roofs, parapets, steps, special solutions)
  • Simulation of pendulum impact tests
  • Dimensioning of PR facades, element facades and rear-ventilated facades
  • Dimensioning of aluminum facades and stainless steel facades
  • Checking of window profiles
  • Planning and dimensioning of connection details
  • Planning and dimensioning of anchorages to reinforced concrete
  • Dimensioning of fall protection (parapets, railings, handrails)
  • Screwing and riveting of roof structures

ADDITIONALLY:

  • Daylight supply and simulations
  • Airtightness of the facade shell (incl. blower door test)
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