Building Construction

Introduces the principles, practices and materials in energy-efficient building construction. Covers: heat transport, insulation, air movement and indoor air quality; vapor diffusion and air barriers; moisture and condensation; sound transmission and absorption; solar energy, lighting, space and domestic hot water heating. A heat audit is performed and the state energy code is examined.

Students learn to comprehend and use blueprints typically used in light residential construction. Two-and three-dimensional drawings are analyzed and common methods of estimating labor and materials practiced. An understanding of residential construction is suggested.