AECT 450 - Building Science

Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 3
Laboratory (or Other) Hours: 0

Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Restriction(s): Restricted to junior and senior Construction Management and Architecture students

Buildings have become more complex as the effects of energy efficiency and mechanical systems have become more sophisticated. This course examines how all systems in a building interact with each other and how their interaction affects indoor air quality, energy usage and air/moisture migration within the structure. Also examined are the use of diagnostic methods, including blower door test results and FLIR images, to supplement heat-loss data when evaluating the built structure.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Describe the relationship of the three pathways for heat loss through a building section.
Explain methods employed to minimize air infiltration into a building.
Describe pathways and mitigation measures for slowing migration of water into a building.
Contrast the functions of a vapor retarder and an air barrier.
Calculate the overall estimated heat loss and resulting heating cost of building given the appropriate data.
Describe a blower door test and the use of a FLIR camera