Building Science Mini Series: Instagram Highlights, Now on the Blog
Our very popular Building Science Mini Series on Instagram garnered so much interest, we thought we would share it here:
Building Science 101: The Foundation of Better Homes
A great home lasts, feels good to live in, supports your health, and respects the environment. Building science is how we make that happen.
It’s the study of how heat, air, and moisture move through a home—and how design, materials, and construction methods work together to control those forces. This understanding is the backbone of building homes that are durable, efficient, and healthy.
Durability: Building for the Long Haul
A beautiful home isn’t much use if it can’t stand up to decades of use and the challenges of our mountain climate. Durability in building science means choosing materials and systems that resist wear, prevent damage, and keep maintenance low—so your investment lasts for generations.
Comfort + Health
Your home should be a refuge. Good building science creates spaces with consistent temperatures, balanced humidity, and fresh, clean air. This isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your family’s health by reducing allergens, preventing mold, and supporting better indoor air quality.
Energy Efficiency + Environmental Responsibility
Efficiency isn’t only about lowering utility bills—it’s about reducing environmental impact. A well-designed, well-built home uses less energy to heat, cool, and operate, while still keeping you comfortable year-round. For us, that means aligning with BC’s Energy Step Code and using smart strategies to meet or exceed its targets.
Water Management
Water is the number one cause of building failure. That’s why we design to keep it out, drain it away, and allow assemblies to dry when needed. From proper flashing to rainscreens and vapour-permeable layers, every detail matters in preventing costly moisture damage.
Air Barriers
An effective air barrier keeps unwanted air movement from stealing heat in winter or letting in hot air in summer. It also plays a key role in controlling moisture, improving indoor air quality, and making your home more comfortable.
Ventilation
Fresh air in, stale air out—that’s the goal. Mechanical ventilation systems ensure your home gets the right amount of outdoor air without losing energy, keeping your living environment fresh, healthy, and balanced.
Thermal Control
Thermal control is all about managing heat flow. Insulation, continuous exterior layers, and thermal breaks help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer, while avoiding cold spots and drafts.
Vapour Control
Vapour barriers (or vapour retarders) prevent moisture from moving into parts of your home where it could condense and cause damage. Getting this detail right means balancing protection with the ability for assemblies to dry when necessary.
The Bottom Line:
Building science is what makes the difference between a home that just looks good and one that truly lives well. It’s the quiet, behind-the-scenes work that protects your investment, enhances your daily life, and supports a healthier planet.