What does the term “building envelope” include?

The term "building envelope" encompasses the components that create a barrier between the interior of the building and the external environment. This includes the roof, walls, foundation, windows, and doors. These elements work together to provide protection against external weather conditions, ensure energy efficiency, control air and moisture flow, and contribute to the overall structural integrity of the building. The envelope is critical for maintaining a comfortable and secure indoor environment.

The other options do not provide a complete representation of what constitutes a building envelope. For instance, limiting the definition to only the roof, walls, and foundation ignores the essential role that windows and doors play in the overall functionality and efficiency of the building’s exterior. Similarly, focusing solely on external factors like weather and air quality does not capture the physical components that actually make up the enclosure. Lastly, including interior finishes and furnishings is completely irrelevant to the concept of a building envelope, as they relate to the building's interior and not to the enclosure itself. Understanding the complete scope of the building envelope is crucial for architectural practice and compliance with building codes.