Topic outline

  • Design of the Building Envelope: Single-Family Residential Construction

    Credits: 4 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course provides a comprehensive examination of the engineering principles involved in the design and construction of the building envelope for single-family residential structures. It covers the fundamental roles and functions of envelope components including thermal insulation, air and moisture barriers, vapor control layers, and exterior cladding systems. 

    Emphasis is placed on evaluating environmental loads, material selection, building codes, and energy efficiency considerations. The course also addresses common design failures, construction detailing, and field performance assessments relevant to residential buildings.

    Topics:

    Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

    • Understand the functional requirements of the building envelope in residential construction.
    • Evaluate environmental and structural loads affecting building envelope performance.
    • Apply principles of thermal insulation, air sealing, and vapor control to ensure energy-efficient design.
    • Select appropriate materials for various climatic conditions and construction methods.
    • Identify and mitigate common construction detailing issues that compromise envelope performance.
    • Ensure code compliance and implement industry best practices in envelope design and construction.
    • Integrate drainage planes, flashing, and moisture barriers to prevent water intrusion and degradation.

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.

    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 

    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

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    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil engineers, structural engineers, mechanical (HVAC) engineers, architectural engineers, residential construction professionals, and any licensed engineer seeking professional development in residential building systems. It applies broadly across disciplines involved in residential design, energy performance, and code-compliant construction. 
    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1