Building Envelope Science – Design and Application

Students will learn how to conceptually design and analyze the costs of constructing a small building that adheres to Building Science principles, which will lead to an energy-efficient, quiet, dry and durable enclosure. Students will discuss the fundamental scientific principles that support the design and construction of a low energy, long lasting building. Students will then examine the benefits and differences between a building science approach and traditional building practices. Students will apply this knowledge to sketch, design and construct a scale, conceptual model of a small building. Finally, students will analyze the material costs of this building and revise the design accordingly. 

The learner will:

• Discuss the terminology and scientific principles of Building Science
• Analyze the ten basic principles of Good Design as outlined by Dieter Rams
• Examine the interaction between the Perfect Wall and the Perfect Building Envelope
• Discuss the benefits and differences between a building science approach and current practices
• Sketch basic plans for a small-scale building using the principles of building envelope science
• Design a small-scale building by applying building science principles
• Construct a model of the newly designed small-scale building that encompasses a building science approach
• Construct the bill of materials for the small-scale building using building science principles as the basis for the choice of materials
• Analyze the current costs of the small-scale building, proposed using building science principles
• Create a list of changes or revisions to make to the small-scale building in light of costs and feedback

It is known that 20% of Canada’s energy goes to heating and cooling. By introducing energy-efficient building science principles at the planning and design stage of building construction, we can contribute to an overall reduction in energy use. This microcredential will provide participants with the knowledge to consider energy efficiency at the beginning of construction planning, ensuring that structures are constructed with sustainability in mind. This will have the future benefit of reducing the amount of retrofitting that buildings will need as they age. 

RRC Polytech also houses the Building Efficiency Technology Access Centre (BETAC), which could be utilized for the Building Envelope Science micro-credential series. With the facilities and expertise available at RRC Polytech, this micro-credential is sure to be the beginning stages of a suite of credentials that could continue past the life of this C2R2 initiative and contribute to a low-carbon future. 

• Building Envelope Science – Principles and Practices