The Fundamentals of Building Science for High Energy Efficiency Homes
Part 1: Introduction and General Concepts

3.5 CPD


  • The fundamentals of Building Science as it applies to Part 9 Homes in Canada.
  • The new emphasis is on holistic design and its importance.
  • Building Science because it is required to predict performance without the benefit of trial by time.
  • How to achieve these energy goals while maintaining a home that people want to live in.
  • The changing regulatory environment in the Provinces and Canada.
  • Why Building Science has to be understood by all levels of home construction to ensure a viable overall design.
  • Climate change influences the design process.
  • Carbon footprint?
  • Understanding the Step Code.
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The Fundamentals of Building Science for High Energy Efficiency Homes Part 2: The Science to Achieve the Goals


3.5 CPD

  • Overview of important concepts of Building Science with regards to Part 9 homes.
  • Examine the range and scope of potential moisture issues.
  • Discuss water control concepts when it is in its three forms: liquid, vapour and solid.
  • Analyze psychometrics of mechanical systems and their role in energy efficiency.
  • Describe the goal of the comfort of the home. 
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The Fundamentals of Building Science for High Energy Efficiency Homes

Part 3:  General Building Envelope System Types and Strategies (3.5 hours)

3.5 CPD

  • Describe mass and lightweight structures
  • Present Building Envelope strategies of the various planes of protection that include air barrier, vapour barrier, insulation, and hygrothermal.
  • Describe methods of testing and confirming the viability of designs.
  • Methods of predicting and modelling overall thermal resistance performance.
  • Reinforcing the “house as a whole” concept.
For more information or to register: Online Courses - Building It Right

The Fundamentals of Building Science for High Energy Efficiency Homes
Part 4: Creating an Overall Building System Strategy (3.5 hours)

3.5 CPD


  • The parties that are required to create the overall design.
  • Below grade considerations.
  • Above grade considerations.
  • Roof considerations.
  • Mechanical considerations.
  • Transitions, how to achieve continuity.
For more information or to register: Online Courses - Building It Right

The Fundamentals of Building Science for High Energy Efficiency Homes
Part 5: Required details and Their Execution (3.5 hours)

3.5 CPD


  • Windows, doors and penetration details that complement a variety of building strategies.
  • Vetted and tested types of assemblies.
  • Maintaining one design ideal throughout the entire project.
For more information or to register: Online Courses - Building It Right

The Fundamentals of Building Science for High Energy Efficiency Homes
Part 6: Regional Considerations and Mechanicals (3.5 hours)

3.5 CPD


  • Overall mechanical strategies and goals.
  • Making the structure net-zero ready.
  • Seismic and high wind load considerations.
  • Radon gas mitigation.
  • Local environment considerations.
  • Security and safety considerations.
  • Accessibility considerations.
For more information or to register: Online Courses - Building It Right