The Building Enclosure Course Overview
What Will You Learn?
The Building Enclosure course provides a comprehensive understanding of building envelope systems, focusing on materials, structural integrity, and environmental considerations. Students will explore essential enclosure elements, including cold-formed steel framing, cladding, curtain walls, roofing, doors, and windows. This course ensures proficiency in weatherproofing, insulation strategies, and construction methodologies crucial for energy-efficient and durable building designs.
By completing this course, you will:
- Develop expertise in cold-formed steel framing and structural enclosure techniques.
- Learn about cladding materials, installation processes, and durability considerations.
- Gain skills in curtain wall systems, glazing applications, and glass performance.
- Understand roofing systems, insulation methods, and waterproofing strategies.
- Master the integration of doors, windows, and hardware for complete enclosures.
Benefits of Learning with VDCI
By enrolling in this course, students gain access to industry-recognized training through VDCI, a nationally accredited institution offering project-based learning for AEC professionals.
- Flexible Learning: Access self-paced course materials with structured progress tracking.
- Cost-Effective Training: Course bundles and certificate programs offer affordable, high-quality education.
- Project-Based Learning: Every lesson includes hands-on assignments assessed by industry experts.
- Expert Instruction: Learn from Autodesk Certified Instructors with real-world experience.
- Interactive Support: Engage in discussion forums and student networking opportunities.
- Digital Credentials: Earn shareable digital badges and certificates to enhance your portfolio.
- Portfolio Development: Complete structured projects demonstrating proficiency in building enclosures.
Course Lessons and Projects
Lesson 1: Introduction to Building Enclosures
This lesson introduces students to the functions and performance criteria of building envelope systems, with a focus on weatherproofing, insulation, and structural stability.
Skills Learned:
- Understanding the purpose and performance requirements of building enclosures.
- Managing moisture control, air barriers, and thermal insulation.
- Evaluating wind loads, material resilience, and structural durability.
- Coordinating enclosure systems with architectural and structural elements.
- Ensuring compliance with energy efficiency and sustainability standards.
Project: Develop a building enclosure analysis, evaluating thermal insulation, moisture control, and weather resistance.
Lesson 2: Cold-Formed Steel Framing
Students will explore the role of cold-formed steel framing in exterior wall construction and enclosure reinforcement.
Skills Learned:
- Designing cold-formed steel wall assemblies and framing layouts.
- Managing connections, fasteners, and load-bearing considerations.
- Understanding thermal bridging and insulation integration.
- Evaluating fire resistance, corrosion prevention, and durability.
- Coordinating steel framing with cladding, doors, and window openings.
Project: Develop a cold-formed steel stud framing layout, ensuring structural integrity and load distribution.
Lesson 3: Cladding Systems
This lesson focuses on the selection and installation of exterior cladding systems, emphasizing weather resistance and energy efficiency.
Skills Learned:
- Selecting cladding materials based on aesthetics, durability, and performance.
- Understanding installation techniques for metal panels, EIFS, and masonry veneers.
- Managing thermal and moisture control in cladding systems.
- Coordinating cladding attachments, fasteners, and expansion joints.
- Ensuring compliance with fire resistance and industry standards.
Project: Design a cladding detail section incorporating insulation, air barriers, and attachment methods.
Lesson 4: Curtain Wall and Glazing Systems
Students will explore curtain wall design, glass selection, and aluminum framing applications.
Skills Learned:
- Understanding curtain wall design principles and load transfer techniques.
- Managing aluminum framing components, anchors, and fasteners.
- Evaluating thermal performance, condensation prevention, and drainage systems.
- Coordinating glass types, coatings, and shading devices.
- Ensuring proper integration of curtain walls with structural elements.
Project: Develop a curtain wall detail, ensuring efficient attachment, thermal insulation, and drainage solutions.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is designed for professionals and students seeking expertise in building enclosure systems, including:
- Students & Recent Graduates: Build foundational skills in enclosure design and construction methods.
- Architectural Designers & Engineers: Strengthen knowledge of facade systems, thermal insulation, and weatherproofing.
- Construction Project Managers: Improve expertise in enclosure coordination and material integration.
- Structural Engineers & BIM Technicians: Expand skills in curtain wall detailing and framing layouts.
- Facade Consultants & Energy Specialists: Enhance understanding of sustainable building enclosures.
With the growing emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainable building practices, this course equips professionals with the expertise needed to excel in the evolving construction industry.
