
To learn more about VERTEX’s Forensic Engineering or Expert Witness services or to speak with an Engineering Expert, call 888.298.5162 or submit an inquiry.The Directive 2010/31 UE (EBPD) introduces the Nearly Zero Energy Buildings linked to cost optimality, where energy benefits are closely linked to economic benefits. Additionally, in 80% of the ten cases studied for cost, cladding repairs were the highest building envelope contributor to repair cost.įurther information can be found in the complete study found on the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) website.

#Vetro building envelope lawsuit install
Failure to properly design and/or install building envelope elements could result in financial and professional exposure. This study aimed to further analyze the risk related to engineers, architects, and construction professionals as quantified by the frequency and financial impact of commonly occurring defects. Finally, the findings indicate that the cited alleged defects relative to the building envelope are more numerous and complex than cited alleged defects in other disciplines, specifically civil or mechanical engineering. Findings also reveal that the most prominent alleged defects occur where water can infiltrate and damage the building envelope. Findings reveal improper sealing of penetrations, improper integration, and lapping of the weather-resistant barrier (WRB), improper flashing, and improper weep mechanisms, all of which involve water penetration and are the most prominent and high impact defects. The authors analyze 46 construction defect cases litigated between 20 that include issues related to building envelope design and construction to more accurately assess the most commonly cited building envelope issues, their details, and their associated trends.

Analysis of Construction Defect Cases Related to Building Envelope Issues Finally, data associated with alleged construction defects is difficult to attain. Third, alleged building envelope construction defects and construction defects in general, are increasing within construction.

Second, the related disputes are becoming more complex.

First, construction disputes commonly involve the building envelope. The research revealed several key findings. The fact that the issues persist over multiple decades suggests there is a need to better address the common issues related to alleged building envelope defects. The focus of this VERTEX research is an inventory and analysis of defects specifically related to building envelope issues that have persisted for many years. Construction defect litigation has a large effect on contractors, home builders, and engineers.
