Building Science


Building science is the collection of knowledge and experience that focuses on the analysis and control of the physical phenomena affecting buildings and architecture. It traditionally includes the detailed analysis of building materials and building envelope systems.

Heat Pumps 101: Three Modes of Heat Transfer

This is the third in a series of Heat Pump 101 videos from instructor and author, John Siegenthaler, P.E.. “Thermodynamic Basics” was the previous lesson in the series. You can enroll in John’s Heat Pump 101 course for free to learn the very basics of heat pumps in less than an hour.

The three modes of […]

May 23rd, 2023|Categories: Building Science, Free Courses, Heat Pumps, HVAC Design|Tags: |

New Free Webinar Announcement: Home Assessments for Decarbonization

Electrification of existing homes is a hot trend, and rightfully so with all the latest incentives for residences and businesses to transition to electric. Anyone working in the retrofit field is likely – sooner or later – to be asked to help a homeowner with this process. While it can be straightforward, more often it […]

eQUEST vs. OpenStudio

Is eQUEST or OpenStudio better for running energy models? That was the question from a student this week. Here’s how they framed it:

“I’m interested in gaining a qualification in building energy modeling, to perform my firm’s energy rating building code compliance and also to assist my colleagues in making better sustainable design decisions. Looking to […]

Resources for the Building Science Generalist

Looking for some new books or opportunities to build your knowledge base in zero energy buildings? Marc Rosenbaum, instructor of How to Think About Energy in Buildings course, shares his ideas for expanding your knowledge in the field of building science. You can tune into the video or read the transcript below.

Brit: What are some […]

Advice for Launching a Diverse Building Science Career

It’s no accident that HeatSpring instructor Marc Rosenbaum knows quite a bit about virtually all facets of the building science industry. When he began his career nearly 40 years ago, the industry and collective knowledge surrounding it didn’t exist yet. He didn’t have a choice but to become a generalist. 

For folks launching their building science […]

July 7th, 2022|Categories: Building Science, Green Building, Passive House, Sustainable Building, Zero Net Energy Buildings||