Life-cycle Costs and Durability

  1. Apply Life Cycle Cost Analyses (LCCA) in accordance with UFC 1-200-02.
  2. Analyses must include the cost of detailing exposed materials against excessive weathering and providing adequate systems to prevent air and water infiltration.
  3. Use low-maintenance and highly durable materials such as masonry, concrete and metals that are resistant to weathering and corrosion.
  4. Use the most economical initial cost solution to achieve all other criteria and create facilities that comply with these standards; do not build in excess.
  5. Apply a Value Engineering thought process to design decisions.

Support mission requirements through the design of highly functional, flexible and durable facilities. Balance these criteria with the design of high performance and sustainable buildings and provide attractive and comfortable work environments. Satisfy mission requirements while balancing initial costs with life-cycle costs, energy and water efficiency, and the well-being of personnel.

Use a professional, collaborative, integrated planning and design team to develop fully coordinated plans for all projects.

Design Air Force buildings using a 40-year Life Cycle Cost Analysis recognizing the fundamental flexibility to accommodate multiple uses during their lifespan. Integrate climate-based design to ensure energy and water efficiency, lower ongoing utility costs and minimal maintenance.

Ensure all facilities are designated by the appropriate Facility Group number following guidelines in the Overview section of this AFCFS for “Facility Hierarchy.”

UFC 1-200-02 High Performance and Sustainable Building Requirements
https://www.wbdg.org/ffc/dod/unified-facilities-criteria-ufc/ufc-1-200-02

UFC 4-010-01 DoD Minimum Antiterrorism Standards for Buildings
https://www.wbdg.org/ffc/dod/unified-facilities-criteria-ufc/ufc-4-010-01

Air Force Design Guides / Standards (AFDG)
https://www.wbdg.org/ffc/af-afcec/design-guides-standards

Department of the Air Force Manual (DAFMAN) 32-1084, Facility Requirements
https://www.wbdg.org/FFC/AF/AFMAN/afman32-1084.pdf