Enclosure AIA Approved Continuing Education Sessions

This course introduces architects to various assembly requirements, documentation, and reporting changes within the 2025 ECCCNYS and 2023 MA Stretch Code. Participants will explore changes to both codes along with their effects, discuss how more rigorous assembly performance requirements can affect building enclosure detailing, and review common diagnostic and testing methods.

Learning Objectives

• Review the provisions of the 2023 Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code and the 2025 ECCCNYS from the lens of required Enclosure performance.
• Compare and contrast the 2023 MA Stretch Code and 2025 ECCNYS to previous and historic code versions.
• Discuss new documentation and testing requirements in both codes that affect enclosure design, detailing, and construction.
• Identify enclosure best practices that may provide improved performance across both referenced codes.

Prerequisite Knowledge

Basic knowledge of building enclosure assembly components and the role of codes in establishing enclosure performance baselines.

This course introduces architects to whole-building airtightness requirements in IECC 402.5, Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code, and relevant ASTM standards. Participants will explore how airtightness goals affect enclosure detailing and testing, review common diagnostic methods, and learn from case studies to improve design decisions, coordination, and building performance.

Learning Objectives

• Review the provisions of the Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code, IECC C402.5, and relevant ASTM standards to understand when blower door testing is required for a project.
• Analyze and compare the testing methodologies outlined in ASTM standards to determine the appropriate approach and preparation for different building types and project phases.
• Identify key preparatory items and actions necessary for both the construction and design teams to take for executing a successful test.
• Learn how diagnostic techniques, including those in ASTM E1186, are applied to identify air leakage locations and propose practical remediation strategies.

Prerequisite Knowledge

Basic knowledge of building enclosure assembly components and the function of air barriers in an enclosure assembly.

This course will introduce the signs and symptoms of masonry performance on existing buildings and structures. The course will begin with an overview of masonry building materials, construction methods, and factors for masonry deterioration. Visible signs of deterioration, whether from environmental conditions or human error, will be explored and options for repair, remediation, and proper maintenance will be discussed. Attendees will gain an understanding of how vital knowledge of a project’s local climate is, and begin to appreciate the impact appropriate design, materials, construction methods, and care can have on the longevity of masonry structures and the implications of deteriorating masonry on building occupants.

Learning Objectives

• Introduce masonry materials, construction methods, and factors for performance with examples from both historic and modern projects.
• Review masonry deterioration caused by moisture infiltration and exfiltration, how to tell the difference, and determine likely causes.
• Learn to identify masonry deterioration caused by human error, whether issues in design, or flaws in workmanship or maintenance.
• Discuss a specific case: how the problem came to the owners’ notice, the steps taken to determine the cause(s) and how the issue was repaired.

Prerequisite Knowledge

General understanding of masonry in building design and construction.

The new MA stretch code is going into effect in July 2023. The code includes a significant change from previous editions and will impact enclosure design going forward. New enclosure mandates include air testing requirements, maximum glazing u-factors, and assembly insulation derating for thermal bridging. This presentation seeks to describe how to navigate the stretch code, understand when it applies, and develop strategies for compliance.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the history of the MA stretch code and how it has evolved over time.
• Review the requirements in the newest stretch code.
• Review thermal bridge derating examples and the different ways to derate assemblies.
• Review materials and assemblies that will help comply with the new requirements.

Prerequisite Knowledge

None

Learning Objectives

• Review common styles of existing masonry assemblies and their construction.
• Understand types of masonry deterioration, their causes, and durable solutions.
• Understand the risks of insulating masonry assemblies and approaches to mitigate that risk.
• Learn how to detail the connections between historic facades and modern, high-performing windows, walls, and roofs.

Prerequisite Knowledge

None