The Value of enclosure commissioning
Enclosure Commissioning with McCownGordon
Building Enclosure Commissioning (BECx) is a quality assurance procedure aimed at verifying that building envelope components such as roofs and windows are properly designed and installed to meet performance goals, thereby improving durability and energy efficiency. This process is essential for minimizing air and water leaks, enhancing thermal insulation, and boosting occupant comfort. Initiating BECx early in the design stage is most effective, involving a Building Enclosure Commissioning Authority (BECxA) who sets performance criteria, reviews design documents, performs site inspections, and provides maintenance training. The cost of BECx generally ranges between 0.5% and 1.5% of the total construction budget, but the long-term benefits often justify the investment. BECx is also valuable for existing structures through assessments and testing to ensure the envelope supports overall building system performance alongside traditional commissioning.
Why is BECx important?
The building enclosure acts as the primary barrier against weather and environmental factors. BECx helps to:
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Decrease air and moisture infiltration, avoiding expensive repairs.
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Enhance thermal efficiency, lowering energy use.
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Improve occupant comfort and indoor air quality.
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Extend the lifespan of building materials and systems.
Enclosure Commissioning Key Benefits
- Energy Efficiency: Up to 30% reduction in heating and cooling costs.
- Moisture Management: Prevents water infiltration, reducing mold and structural damage.
- Extended Building Life: Reduces long-term maintenance and premature system failures.
- Improved Comfort: Eliminates drafts, temperature fluctuations, and condensation issues.
- Lower Operational Costs: Identifies construction defects early, reducing warranty claims.
SERVICES WE PROVIDE
- Pre-Design & Design Reviews: Assess materials, detailing, and constructability.
- Construction Phase Inspections: Verify installation quality.
- Performance Testing: Conduct air barrier, infrared thermography, and water infiltration tests.
- Operational Support: Train facility staff on long-term maintenance best practices.
Brandt Elledge, CCP
Commissioning Executive
BECx IMPACT IN NUMBERS
- Air leakage testing identifies savings opportunities up to $0.20 – $0.40 per SF per year.
- Building enclosure failures account for 70% of construction defect claims—BECx mitigates risk.
- ROI of BECx typically ranges from 2 to 6 years, depending on project scale.
