Building Science Principles for Complying with the BC Energy Step Code (online) 

We will discuss the key enclosure selection criteria that affect the building construction cost and schedule.

We will discuss how to use building science principles to guide the evolution of the design and construction of building enclosures with increased R-value in the “envelope first” approach, accounting for BC’s five climate zones and diverse building types and occupancies.

We will discuss how to assess and mitigate the potential impacts of solar heat gain on occupant comfort, including a basic understanding of the solar heat gain coefficient, Low-E coatings, window operability, and the influence of mechanical systems

We will discuss how to differentiate between enclosure elements and construction practices for achieving airtightness and those intended for vapor control

So ultimately, builders would be able to apply to build science principles to help in the selection of durable building components, assemblies, and construction approaches in the diverse British Columbia climate and market.

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We will discuss how to find the typical ranges of assembly R-values associated with wood frame, below-grade concrete, and wood-frame roof assemblies.

We will discuss how to be mindful of prescriptive code items that still apply to building enclosures even if they are used as part of performance-based compliance and of design approaches that may require design professional involvement/sign-off during assembly selection.

We will discuss how to consider the five key design and construction criteria of cost efficiency, constructability, airtightness, moisture durability, and sustainability in selecting an appropriate enclosure assembly

We will discuss how to assess the benefits of an exterior-insulated assembly compared to an interior-insulated assembly in terms of building science principles.

We will discuss how to evaluate a window product based on key characteristics including NAFs rating, energy, durability, design options

We will discuss how to evaluate industry resources, product documentation, and training programs for their suitability as tools for builders in the context of the BCESC, including for diverse builder teams and building design perspectives.

So ultimately, builders would be able to use industry resources to determine appropriate enclosure components and assemblies, mechanical components, and construction approaches that can be used to meet the current and future requirements of the BCESC and achieve best practices.

Upon completion of this module, builders would have a better understanding of basic building science principles and would be able to apply them to the evolving/emerging enclosure design and construction practices required to meet the “envelope first” approach.

This course is not equivalent to the eight training modules that were developed by BC Housing to prepare builders to build to Step 3 of the BC Energy Step Code. Completion of this courses will not satisfy the step code condition placed on general contractor licenses by BC Housing.