Rice University, Kraft Hall

SGH consulted on the design of below-grade and plaza waterproofing; exterior wall air and water barrier and associated flashings; waterproofing and flashing transitions at facade cladding and fenestration systems; and roofing systems. Highlights of our work include the following:

• Evaluating the proposed building enclosure design for airtightness, watertightness, durability, reliability, constructability, and general suitability for the project
• Reviewing the hygrothermal performance of the typical building wall systems to help choose between a vapor permeable, or impermeable, air and water barrier
• Using computerized heat and moisture migration software to analyze the typical wall and roof systems for moisture migration and identifying the optimal locations for insulation, air barriers, and vapor retarders
• Helping develop details to provide air and water barrier continuity and to integrate the air and water barrier, below-grade and horizontal waterproofing, and roofing with the many other building enclosure systems
• Evaluating roofing options and helping the project team minimize the thickness of the roof assembly, improve drainage, and develop details at complex building expansion joint interfaces
• Reviewing waterproofing and flashing at exterior wall construction mockups
• Providing construction phase services, including reviewing contractor submittals, visiting the site to observe ongoing construction, evaluating performance testing conducted by others, and helping the project team address field conditions