Winter is around the corner, and with temperatures slowly starting to dip, it’s more important than ever to make sure your building’s structural elements are ready to handle the demands of the Canadian cold. As the structural team of the Krahn Group of Companies, Krahn Engineering knows how important it is to ensure your building is winter ready. Below, we’ll cover the core elements that help keep your property safe and cozy, all year round. Read on to learn more!
Building Envelope
One of the most important parts of any building’s design is the elements that go into creating the structure’s envelope. A building’s “envelope” refers to all components that help to insulate the structure from the outside world, especially where excess moisture and drafts are concerned. This involves everything from the roof of your building right down to the foundation. All the details of this process are what come together and keep your structure well-insulated. If your building envelope has been compromised, as a result of wear and tear and/or poor long-term planning, the elements will penetrate the protective nature of your building’s structure and begin to cause damage. This is particularly dangerous during the winter months, where the extra moisture and fluctuating temperatures can wreak havoc throughout the structure if not kept in check. Core building envelope elements that become a vital line of defence in the winter include:
- Roofing
- Windows
- Doors
- The overall foundation
If any of these elements are not properly equipped to deal with the demands of subzero temperatures and harsh weather, you’ll soon find yourself facing major issues that could affect the overall longevity of your property.
Avoiding Building Envelope Issues During Winter
As most structural engineers will be quick to tell you, one of the best ways to prevent damage from the outside elements and avoid envelope failures is to take a preventative approach. A skilled team of consultants will be able to properly winter-proof your building by ensuring all elements used are suited to the task at hand, including using the right materials for construction and designing with seasonal demands in mind. At Krahn Engineering LTD, we know what it takes to set your structure up for success right from the start, and our proud to offer extensive engineering consulting services including:
- Tilt-up & Precast building design and shop drawings
- Structural steel design
- Wood frame design
- Cast-in-place concrete
- Structural modifications
- Seismic assessments & upgrades
- REVIT structural drawings, models, records, and much more.
Thanks to the Krahn Group of Companies’ multi-disciplinary approach to project engineering, you’ll always have the benefit of multiple teams and branches under one roof. Partnering with Krahn means having access to leading insights and guidance, as well as peace of mind throughout the build process!
Learn more about getting your structure winter ready by contacting our team today!
