Engineers

The Engineer's Role in Building Science

Engineers' work is fundamental to building science, a field that studies the physical phenomena that govern how buildings are constructed and how they perform. Mechanical engineers, for instance, design the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems that control a building's thermal comfort, humidity, and air exchange rates. Their calculations dictate the size and type of air handling units, ductwork, and filtration systems. Similarly, environmental engineers may focus on broader issues such as pollutant dispersion, material selection to minimize off-gassing, and the integration of sustainable practices that also support healthy indoor environments. The decisions they make during the design phase directly impact a building's susceptibility to IAQ problems like inadequate ventilation, moisture accumulation, and the concentration of airborne contaminants.

Collaboration and Mutual Support

As IAQ specialists, our role often involves supporting the engineers' overall goal of a high-performing, healthy property. When we are called in to investigate an IAQ complaint, our findings can either validate the engineer's design or reveal a performance gap. For example, our diagnostic testing might show that a building's ventilation system, while designed correctly on paper, is not operating as intended due to installation errors, poor maintenance, or occupant behavior.

In these cases, our work provides the empirical data and forensic analysis that engineers can use to refine their strategies. We might identify a specific pressure differential issue, a latent moisture problem, or a source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that was not accounted for. By providing a detailed report with data from air sampling, moisture meters, or thermal imaging, we equip the engineer with the information needed to specify targeted repairs or system modifications. This collaborative approach ensures that the solution is not a temporary fix, but a holistic improvement that aligns with the building's original design intent, ultimately enhancing its long-term health and performance.