49115 Facade Engineering

This subject introduces students to the concepts and techniques involved in facade engineering and their application to the design and procurement of cladding systems. A building's facade needs to satisfy a complex range of performance criteria, including the exclusion of adverse weather (wind and rain) and the moderating of heat, light, and sound. At the same time the facade needs to be durable and safe (structurally sound).

Students in this subject develop an understanding of the various types of facades such as masonry, concrete and glazed curtain walls, and the fundamental design principles that underpin their performance. In addition, this subject intends to bridge the gap between consultant and contractor in order to adopt a holistic approach toward the design and procurement of a building's facade.

The subject also aims to apply the principles learnt in structural engineering to building materials such as aluminium, glass, and structural adhesives that are commonly used in facade construction, together with the compatability and durability issues that they must satisfy.

Assessment: Assignments to reinforce problem-solving skills and to illustrate the application of methods and concepts presented (35 per cent), mini-project (15 per cent), quizzes: 2 x 2–3hrs each (2 x 25 per cent). To pass the subject, a minimum mark of 50 per cent in the combined quiz components and the overall subject is required.

Texts and references

The following references are recommended, but optional.

BRANZ Bulletins, Practical Information for the building Industry

Endean, K, Investigating Rainwater Penetration of Modern Buildings

ICBEST, International Conference of Building Envelope Systems and Technology Proceedings

Rice, P & Dutton, H, Structural Glass

Typical availability

Spring semester, City campus
Offered in even years only.