Foundational concepts of heat, air, and moisture movement in building envelopes.
About this course
This course introduces the fundamental physics governing how buildings interact with their environment. You will explore the movement of heat, air, and moisture through building envelopes, focusing on how these forces impact durability, energy efficiency, and indoor comfort. The course covers insulation types, vapor barriers, air sealing, and the importance of proper detailing in preventing moisture-related damage.
You will learn to read and interpret building science data, perform basic calculations for thermal resistance and condensation potential, and understand the role of the building envelope in overall building performance. This knowledge is essential for anyone pursuing advanced study in building science or architectural technology.
Who takes this course
Credits: 3 · Hours: 45
Prerequisites
None
Learning outcomes
- Explain the physical principles driving heat, air, and moisture transfer through building assemblies.
- Analyze building envelope assemblies for thermal bridging and air leakage paths.
- Calculate condensation risk within wall and roof assemblies under local climate conditions.
- Evaluate insulation materials and vapor control strategies for energy efficiency.
- Identify common building envelope failures and their root causes.
Evaluation
| Component | Weight (%) |
| Mid-term examination | 30 |
| Assembly analysis project | 25 |
| Final examination | 45 |