Building Systems

Course description

Through this course, the student will be introduced to the concept of the building as a living entity. The variety of systems within a building will be examined in relation to the problems which can result when these systems are poorly designed or do not function as intended. Physical factors that influence good design for performance, durability, health efficiency and sustainability of buildings will be studied. Common building design/construction problems that result in poor performance, expensive repairs, litigation, etc., their causes and solutions will be explored through studying famous, infamous and vernacular buildings, materials, details, etc. The principles of building science will be utilized to establish the appropriate performance characteristics of the systems as well as the preventative/corrective actions which could be prescribed when things go wrong.

Course details