Course Overview
This course introduces the fundamentals of building science for retrofits and upgrades for homes in rural communities. The course will outline the contexts for reducing emissions in homes, fundamental building science concepts, solutions for residential building retrofits and upgrades, and strategies to reduce energy usage and improve comfort and building durability. The course presents multiple case studies from communities in different regions of BC. Key topics include House-as-a-System: air, water, moisture and heat management; retrofit solutions and programs; culturally appropriate design; and best practices for retrofit, envelope, and mechanical upgrades.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
1.5
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Describe the context for reducing emissions in buildings
- Explain the fundamentals of building science as it relates to residential retrofits
- Describe how the House-as-a-System approach can be applied to retrofit decisions
- Identify industry-recognized metrics that aim to improve occupant comfort, efficiency, and durability
- Identify strategies for evaluating emissions retrofits to improve occupant comfort, efficiency, and durability
- Evaluate approaches to below-grade and above-grade upgrades based on building science principles, construction, and material selection
- Explain best practices for coordinating mechanical upgrades
Effective as of Winter 2024
Related Programs
Building Science for Retrofits (XZEB 1114) is offered as a part of the following programs:
School of Construction and the Environment
- Retrofit Solutions for Rural Communities
Microcredential Part-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.