Question 1

What is building envelope consulting?

Accepted Answer

Building envelope consulting involves the investigation, design, and performance verification of a building's exterior systems — including facades, roofing, windows, curtain walls, and below-grade waterproofing. We identify failures, design repairs, and verify that new construction performs as specified.

Question 2

What is BECx (Building Enclosure Commissioning)?

Accepted Answer

BECx is a systematic process of verifying that all building enclosure systems — walls, roofs, windows, and waterproofing — are designed, installed, and performing according to the owner's project requirements. It reduces risk of leaks, energy loss, and warranty disputes.

Question 3

Do you work on existing buildings or only new construction?

Accepted Answer

Both. We investigate failures in existing buildings (water infiltration, mold, thermal loss, structural movement) and provide design review and commissioning services for new construction projects.

Question 4

Are you licensed in my state?

Accepted Answer

Contact us with your project location and we will confirm licensure.

Question 5

How is Stratum different from a contractor?

Accepted Answer

We are an independent engineering firm with no contractor partnerships and no product affiliations. We work exclusively for building owners and their representatives — never for contractors or manufacturers. This means our findings are objective and legally defensible.

Question 6

Do you provide expert witness services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our principals have served as expert witnesses in litigation involving facade failures, water infiltration, construction defects, and building enclosure performance.