Building Science for Residential Homes – Principles and Practice

This three-day course introduces the core principles of building science, emphasizing how residential buildings function as integrated systems. Participants will explore heat transfer, air leakage, moisture control, and strategies to protect the building envelope through theory, case studies, and practical examples. Topics include air and vapor barriers, condensation, energy performance, and the role of integrated design in creating high-performance, low-carbon housing. Designed for professionals in construction, renovation, and retrofitting, the training provides a strong foundation for building durable, energy-efficient homes suited to the Canadian climate.

Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program.

By the end of this course, participants will:

• Understand how buildings function as systems.
• Recognize the impact of heat, air, and moisture on performance.
• Identify strategies to improve airtightness, insulation, and energy efficiency- critical for effective retrofits.
• Apply building science to support low-carbon, high-performance retrofits.

Assessments will include short quizzes, group discussions, and a final knowledge check to ensure comprehension of core principles and their application in retrofit projects.

This training equips participants with essential knowledge of heat transfer, air leakage, moisture control, and building envelope systems, critical to improving energy efficiency in homes and buildings. By understanding how to reduce energy loss and improve airtightness and insulation, participants can support effective retrofits that lower energy consumption, enhance indoor comfort, and contribute to Canada’s low-carbon building goals.