Institute, AIA strengthen focus on building enclosures

The National Institute of Building Sciences and the American Institute of Architects showed their commitment to the importance of building enclosures May 18 when they signed a new Memorandum of Agreement to support existing Building Enclosure Councils (BECs) and develop new ones in cities across the United States.

BECs are a network of affiliated architects, engineers, contractors, manufacturers and other professionals located in major cities around the country. Thecouncils provide a forum for the construction industry to address building enclosures, according to a May 19 release from The Institute.

"The building enclosure is a key element when it comes to achieving high-performance buildings, especially when it comes to reducing energy bills and ensuring the safety and security of building occupants," said National Institute of Building Sciences Chairman Jim Sealy, in the release. "The Institute is pleased to continue working with AIA and its members to improve the performance of building enclosures and provide a forum to share best practices with practitioners."

The Institute, through its Building Enclosure Technology and Environment Council, and the AIA established the initiative in 2004 to offer industry professionals an opportunity to exchange valuable information relating to successful building enclosure design through meetings and sharing of resources. BECs are now active in 25 cities nationwide, according to the release.