Introduction to Building Science

This course is a comprehensive tour of basic residential construction. Lessons cover the following house components:

• Foundations – system types; material properties; construction methods; sizing and layout.
• Floors – framing systems, materials, sizing and layout; decking materials and fastening systems; solid wood joists vs. engineered I-joists.
• Walls – stud framing; corner bracing; post and beam systems; insulation materials and methods; structural insulated panels.
• Roofs – trusses vs. rafters; sheathing materials and methods; roof loads and load paths.
• Residential windows – sealed insulated glass units, low-e coatings, installation and air sealing.
• Exterior cladding systems – types; installation; finishing.
• The building envelope – the moisture and thermal barrier of a house.
• Mechanical systems – rough plumbing; electrical service; HVAC systems.