Building envelope trends shape conversations at IIBEC

By Jesse Sanchez. 

How consultants are navigating evolving fire codes, wind requirements and commissioning practices to strengthen building performance. 

As building codes evolve and environmental risks intensify, roofing consultants are sharpening their focus on how entire building systems perform, not just individual components. That shift was evident at the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) show, where conversations centered around these topics.  

For Brad Conlin, senior roof consultant at Benchmark, the value of the event starts with the people it brings together. “The number one reason to come to this show is that it's a conglomeration of professionals from the roofing and building enclosure industries in one spot,” Brad said. That concentration of expertise creates a consistent exchange of ideas and experience. He added, “I don't think I ever leave here without learning something new.” 

Those insights are becoming increasingly critical as consultants respond to a changing risk landscape. Fire protection, in particular, has emerged as a central topic, with more attention being paid to fire ratings and how buildings perform in wildfire-prone environments. Brad noted that discussions are expanding beyond individual assemblies to include the broader wildlife urban interface, where the spread of fire between structures must be addressed at a system level. He said, “It really is an entire building envelope issue to make sure you not only know you're containing the combustion of fires, but also the propagation of fires and the spread of fires.” 

At the same time, evolving codes are reshaping design priorities. Brad pointed to the adoption of the 2024 International Building Code (IBC), which introduces updated wind requirements, including considerations tied to tornado activity. As jurisdictions begin to implement those standards, consultants are working to ensure that designs remain both compliant and performance driven. 

Alongside these developments, building commissioning is gaining momentum as a critical part of the process. While historically outside the core scope of roofing, Brad said consultants are increasingly aligning their work with broader envelope testing and verification efforts. “I learned a little bit about that this week,” he said, highlighting the need for coordination across systems. 

Together, these trends reflect a more integrated approach to building performance, where consultants play a key role in connecting code compliance, risk mitigation and long-term durability. 

Watch Brad's full interview to hear him discuss fire risk, wind performance, and commissioning requirements in today’s evolving code environment!