Adapting to Tighter Enclosures through Scopes of Work

Course Overview

One of the core aspects of any high-performance building is the ability to control air infiltration through the building enclosure. As Pennsylvania’s Uniform Construction Code updates to the 2018 ICC codes, the main airtightness requirement will shift from a blower door result of 5 ACH50 down to 3 ACH50. What will it take for the residential construction industry to adapt to this change?

This online course will focus on the execution and installation of air sealing details around the building enclosure. Often, the keys to success involve properly designed details and material specifications, thus utilizing a well-crafted air sealing scope of work for subcontractors.

Learning Goals

You will learn how to:

• find the code provisions that are changing within Pennsylvania’s Uniform Construction Code that address enclosure airtightness
• discuss the challenges associated with aiming for 3 ACH50 instead of 5 ACH50 based on past experiences from other jurisdictions and case studies
• analyze the role of scopes of work in subcontractor selection and management
• examine ways to improve the air sealing process overall to maximize energy and cost efficiency in residential structures

Available Continuing Education Credits

After watching the videos, completing knowledge checks, and passing a final assessment, you will be eligible for the following continuing education credits:

• 1.0 PA L&I Contact Hour
• 1.0 PDH for licensed professional engineers in Pennsylvania
• 1.0 AIA LU|HSW
• 1.0 ICC Contact Hour (0.1 CEU)
• 1.0 NARI hour/CEU

Instructor

Brian Wolfgang
Former Associate Director of PHRC
Penn State College of Engineering

Who is this for?

• Architects, builders, engineers, remodelers, and other design professionals
• Code officials and government representatives
• Product manufacturers with a residential focus
• Educators focused on building trades and residential construction