A Practical Perspective from the Field
SCIF failures rarely happen because teams don’t care about security. They happen because SCIFs are treated like conventional construction projects, when in reality they are performance-driven security systems.
At Surface Solutions, we are often called after a project has already failed testing or inspection. By that point, schedules are blown, budgets are strained, and confidence is shaken. The patterns behind these failures are remarkably consistent—and avoidable.
The Most Common Reasons SCIFs Fail
1. Fragmented Responsibility
RF shielding, acoustics, flooring, walls, ceilings, and penetrations are often designed and installed by different trades without a unifying strategy. When no one owns the entire envelope, continuity breaks down.
2. Over- or Under-Specification
Some teams over-engineer assemblies, driving unnecessary cost. Others under-engineer critical layers, leading to failed inspections. Both stem from not aligning design decisions with actual performance requirements.
3. Poor Penetration Coordination
HVAC, electrical, data, and fire protection penetrations are frequent failure points. Late changes or field improvisation often compromise shielding and acoustic integrity.
4. Ignoring Moisture Risk
Moisture-related flooring failures are one of the most common post-construction issues in secure facilities, especially where sensitive electronics are involved.
The Cost of Getting It Wrong
SCIF failures typically result in:
- Demolition and rebuild of completed areas
- Extended accreditation timelines
- Operational downtime
- Loss of stakeholder confidence
In many cases, the cost of remediation exceeds what proper upfront coordination would have required.
The Surface Solutions Difference
approach is built around integration, not patchwork:
- SCIF envelope thinking from day one
- RF shielding coordinated with construction details
- Flooring and moisture systems engineered for secure environments
- Documentation built for inspection and approval