The building envelope is your property’s first and most important line of defence.
It’s what keeps the weather out, maintains comfort inside, and protects the overall integrity of the structure. But while a building’s external finishes might look good on the surface, hidden faults in the cladding, roofing, or waterproofing can result in serious problems over time – from leaks and mould to structural decay and energy inefficiency.
At Higgins & Associates, our experienced architects, engineers, and building consultants specialise in diagnosing and resolving building envelope issues – helping property owners, insurers, and contractors stay protected and compliant.
What Exactly Is the Building Envelope?
The building envelope refers to the exterior systems that separate the interior from the outside environment – including:
- Wall cladding
- Roof coverings
- Waterproofing systems
- Windows, doors, and other fenestrations
These components must work together to provide insulation, moisture protection, structural support, and energy efficiency. A single weak point can compromise the whole system.
Learn how we approach building envelope issues in our forensic engineering work.
Signs Your Building Envelope Might Be Failing
You should consider a professional inspection if you notice:
- Cracks or visible surface damage
- Water leaks or damp patches
- Stains or efflorescence on walls
- Increased heating or cooling bills
- Mould or mildew growth
- Ageing materials or outdated designs
Our team at Higgins & Associates can perform a full building envelope evaluation, helping you identify the root cause and scope of any issues.
Building Envelope Services We Offer
We evaluate and advise on a wide range of envelope systems, including:
Roofing Systems
- Asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate, clay/concrete tiles
- Built-up roofing, monolithic systems, TPO, EPDM, rubber membranes
Cladding Materials
- Stucco, EIFS (“synthetic stucco”), fibre cement, wood siding, brick, manufactured stone
Waterproofing Systems
- Fluid-applied (cold/hot), sheet systems, split slab, below-grade, traffic coatings
Fenestrations
- Vinyl and wood windows, sliding doors, storefront systems
Our experts assess the envelope’s design, materials, and performance to identify breaches, risks, and non-compliance – providing tailored repair plans or overseeing remediation works to ensure quality control and code compliance.
Supporting Insurers, Owners, and Contractors
We’re trusted by insurers to evaluate claims related to envelope failures, water ingress, and construction defects. We also support building owners and contractors with:
- Repair design documentation
- Quality assurance observations during construction
- Appraisal services in insurance disputes
Don’t Ignore the Envelope – Protect Your Building
Whether you’re managing a residential property, commercial building, or a portfolio of real estate assets, keeping your building envelope in good condition is essential. Our team provides expert insight and clear next steps, so you can take action before minor issues become major problems.
Explore our full building envelope consulting services or get in touch for a tailored assessment.
