Event Description

About the Program:  Simply put, a new home’s building shell is comprised of the structural elements that separate the inside from the outside: walls, roof, windows, doors, including things that govern long-term performance: air barrier, wind barrier, vapor diffusion layer, insulation, drainage plane, and exterior cladding. The shell’s function is anything but simple. It has to protect its occupants from rain, wind and snow. It has to control the flow of energy and heat between indoors and outdoors. It has to control the flow of air and moisture. It has to provide light and a means to enter and exit, and allow pollutants and contaminants to flow out of the building. The shell has to create an environment that is comfortable indoors, when conditions outdoors are not. And, it significantly determines the affordability and energy consumption of a home. This program presents practical techniques building professionals can use to achieve all of these goals and still provide healthy IAQ.

Learning objectives for the Building Shell:

1. How to define air tightness in a building enclosure
2. How to manage both bulk water and water vapor
3. Air flow management in a building enclosure
4. The importance of a well-sealed air barrier
5. The varying impact of moisture on common building materials
6. Minimizing heat bypasses to minimize condensation and heat loss
7. Various approaches to design a wall system with an R value greater than R=30
8. Various approaches to design an cathedral ceiling with an R value greater than R=40
9. Basic interpretation of infrared imagery of wall systems
10. Critical components of good roof design in heavy snow areas in cold climates