Architectural and Building Technology

Introduces basic materials and methods used in construction. Topics include: physical and chemical properties; the manufacturing process of various material and methods and the way they are implemented in a construction project. Div 1 to 5 of the Masterformat.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Introduces basic principles of wood frame building construction. Develops skills to produce a basic set of construction working drawings. Topics; western platform wood frame construction; wall framing, floor framing and roof framing for a single family residence. Previous drafting experience or DRFT 1000 is recommended prior to taking this course.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Introduces basic principles of building construction. Develops skills to produce a basic set of construction working drawings. Topics include site layout, foundation details, western wood frame detailing, and preparation of a partial set of working drawings for a single family residence. Previous drafting experience or DRFT 1000 is recommended prior to taking this course. May be taken simultaneously with BLDC 1200.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Introduction to measurement of construction work, with a brief review of reading construction drawings and specifications. Specific study of methods of measurement techniques applicable to site work (excavation), concrete and masonry quantity take-offs.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Provides a working knowledge of Part 9 of the 2024 B.C Building Code as it applies to single family dwellings. Gives students the basic skills required to check plans, inspect buildings and deal with questions relating to Part 9 at an elementary level. Covers acceptable materials, systems and methods used in housing construction. Students must bring B.C. Building Code (hardcopy) to the first class.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Introduces basic planning issues encountered in building and site design with emphasis on residential projects. Covers the influences of site conditions on building orientation, interior layout, and exterior form. Focus is on planning strategies for achieving good spatial and functional relationships in a dwelling.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in DRFT 1000

Introduces municipal policies and regulations, which govern property development. Emphasis is placed on zoning and parking by-laws and their impact on types of uses and building size. Presents the development permit application process.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 2000

Continues from BLDC 1050, acquainting students with the properties of various materials and assemblies that are used in MasterFormat Divisions 6 through 9, with an emphasis on the methods in which they are implemented in a construction project.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 1050

Builds upon the topics introduced in BLDC 1200/1205. Lecture topics include working drawing standards, roof construction, advanced (efficient) framing techniques, modified post and beam construction, straight and curved stairs, doors and windows. Students will be required to resolve and create working drawings for more complex wood frame construction such as intersecting roofs and stairs.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 1200

Continues from BLDC 2200. Lecture topics include site and survey plans, concrete foundation detailing, engineered wood products, residential services, prescriptive wood frame design guidelines and when a structural engineer is needed. Other discussions include prefabricated buildings and an introduction to multi-family wood frame construction.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 1205 and 50% in BLDC 2200

Continues from the studies introduced in BLDC 1300 and covers the construction details found in more sophisticated structures. Expands on the topics of BLDC 1300 and introduces sections 5, 6 and 7 covered by the CIQS Standard Method of Measurement in preparation for the CIQS Exam 202.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 1300

Introduces CAD for Architects, building designers and builders. Designed to familiarize the student with the operation of AutoCAD in the architectural environment utilizing the most recent release of the software.
Prerequisite(s):

• Drafting skills and familiarity with Windows.

Continues from BLDC 2400 utilizing the most recent release of the software. Emphasis is on application of software in production of drawings for presentation, development and building permits, and working drawings.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 2400

​This course provides a practical introduction and application of Building Science fundamentals for the evaluation, design, and construction of durable and energy efficient building envelopes (enclosures). The role of climate and the theory of heat flow, vapour flow, air flow, and the application of each principle to the evaluation of building enclosure assemblies will be discussed. Best practice assembly design and detailing fundamentals for above and below grade wall assemblies, roofs, and windows will be covered, with examples and case studies where appropriate. Further to this, BLDC 3050 provides the prerequisite building enclosure design fundamentals which are applied in BLDC 3060, which is an interactive hands-on building enclosure construction and interface detailing course.
Prerequisite(s):

• Successful completion of the course will require basic familiarity with Microsoft Excel, along with the use of mathematical equations to calculate various aspects of properties, and the performance of the building enclosure.

The construction contract is a vital document in any construction project. This course examines the various components that comprise a contract and the corresponding responsibility of each participating party. The course also provides students with a basic understanding of construction contract documents and an understanding of the principles of a contractual relationship. Using the latest version of the CCDC II - 2008 contract as a model, contract definitions, interpretations, and disputes are discussed. A number of scenarios and procedures will be reviewed with examples that typically accompany performing and fulfilling contractual obligations.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDT 1031

This course presents a thorough introduction to the relationship between applied loads and the resultant support reactions and internal forces developed in statically determinate members and structures. Topics include classification of force systems, equilibrium equations, support conditions, freebody diagrams, support reactions, truss analysis by the methods of joints and sections, analysis of pinned plane frames, geometric properties of sections, distributed loading, and load, shear force and bending moment diagrams for beams.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in MATH 1013 or 50% in MATH 1401

​This communication course teaches practical business communication techniques for planning, organizing, selecting, writing, and presenting information in business or industry. It covers routine memos, letters, request and reply letters, and oral presentations. NOTE: COMM 1103 is equivalent to COMM 1106. Although COMM 1106 may not be included on the program course list or program matrix, students may choose either COMM 1106 or COMM 1103 for their program. Students do not need to take COMM 1103 if they take COMM 1106. Students do not need to submit transcripts for entrance to this course. BUT, in the case of formal or informal grade appeals or reviews they will be asked to show proof of their English requirements. Students who wish to confirm their English level are strongly advised to take COMM 0015.​ Students scoring below "C+" in English Studies 12 are encouraged to take COMM 1106 instead of COMM 1103.​
Prerequisite(s):

• English Studies 12 "67%" (C+) or equivalent (ie: COMM 0015 "70+" or IELTS Academic 6.5, etc.)

Introduction to Architectural Drafting. Covers basic architectural manual drafting techniques and skills. Drawing development with emphasis on line techniques, graphic symbols and industry standards. Graphical communication required for the preparation of development permit drawings for residential buildings. Covers techniques necessary for creating three dimensional drawing.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Basic Algebra Review: solving linear, quadratic and simultaneous linear equations, percentage problems; Trigonometry: definitions of trigonometric functions in a right triangle and the unit circle - relevant applications; Plane Geometry: definitions and relevant applications using regular and irregular polygons; 3-D Geometry: definitions and applications using solids with an emphasis on solids intersecting each other.
Prerequisite(s):

• Math 12 Pre-Calculus or equivalent OR BCIT Math 0001.

​Introduces tools and approaches for creating an effective Customer Service Framework and strategy for residential home builders; includes elements for creating a responsive customer service culture and an understanding of how the home Warranty Insurance program works in BC, what the responsibilities of all parties involved are. Homeowner Orientation and Walk-through procedures will be discussed including homeowner manuals and the creation of performance standards that will guide employees to deliver a successful project that satisfies customer expectations. Customer dissatisfaction and ways to communicate and deal with conflict will be discussed, along with fulfilling homeowner expectations and how to avoid disputes.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

​This course discusses how financial statements for a home building business are produced and analysed, along with the skills required to manage a successful business. Basic concepts of accounting and financial reporting will be reviewed. Financing sources and management of debt will be studied. Financial Planning and business performance evaluation skills and techniques will be examined and students will learn how to create budgets, cash flows, and pro-forma as tools to build a profitable business.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

The course is a basic introduction to the concept of the time value of money using simple rates of return, interest rates and types, and decision criteria. Pricing techniques and methodology are introduced as part of the estimating process and bid preparation. Various forms of budget pricing are introduced which lead to a more detailed study of elemental analysis.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

This course is intended to provide a practical approach to the application of building enclosure detailing through hands-on construction and instruction. The course is suitable for contractors, home builders, architects, engineers, technologists, handymen and those interested in building construction. Building on the theory and fundamentals from BLDC 3050, students gain hands on experience in the construction of wall and roof assemblies and details at windows, balconies, decks, roofs, penetrations and interfaces. Alternate detailing approaches for air barrier systems, insulation methods, vapour barriers and cladding attachment will be covered using best practice approaches. Physical testing of materials such as sealants, membranes, as well as the rain water penetration resistance testing of window assemblies and installations will also be integrated into the class.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 3050

Introduces basic materials and methods used in construction from Divisions 10-14 of the MasterFormat System. Topics include: physical and chemical properties; the manufacturing process of various material and methods and the way they are implemented in a construction project.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 2050

Building upon the topics presented in BLDC 2300, Estimating 3 provides the opportunity for students to measure items of work on more complex structures than the previous courses have introduced. Topics include development and application of labour and material prices for items of work. The course also identifies the role of construction cost accounting in the construction estimating process. Lecture topics will also include the ethics and challenges estimators will face in relation to fair business dealings, subcontractor relationships, and bid shopping.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDC 2300 and 50% in BLDC 2050

Presents an overview of the design process for creating garden layouts and planning plans with an emphasis on student initiated projects. Of interest to homeowners and gardeners who wish to expand their design fluency and to landscape contractors wishing to expand their range of services.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

Sponsored and developed by the Canadian Home Builders Association of BC, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and the Homeowner Protection Office of BC. This course provides knowledge of the background building science that allows durable building envelopes to be constructed or restored. Note: This course was formerly available as BLDG 0137.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

​​​Examines Part 9 of the 2024 B.C. Building Code as it applies to multi-unit residential and small commercial and industrial buildings. Covers plan checking and inspection techniques. Prepares students to deal with issues relating to Part 9 of the B.C. Building Code. Some duplication of material covered in BLDC 1500. Students must bring the B.C. Building Code (hardcopy) to the first class.​​
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

​This course provides a working knowledge of the purpose, scope, and contents of the 2024 British Columbia Building Code related to Part 3, Fire Protection, Occupant Safety and Accessibility. The course will provide the student with the basic skills required to understand and apply fundamental code concepts to building design and construction of larger or complex buildings. Concepts include: the meaning of noncombustible construction and when a building is required to be of noncombustible construction; fire-resistance ratings, when a building is required to have sprinklers, have a standpipe system, or have a fire alarm system; how many streets a building needs to face; the distance required between the building and property lines; the amount of windows permitted; requirements for interconnected floor spaces; high-rise building requirements; number of water closets required; number and width of exits required; interior finishes permitted, and accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities. This course will be of interest to persons involved in building design, interior design, drafting, construction, plan review, inspection and financing. It is recommended that persons taking this course have some knowledge of basic building construction as well as some experience with Building Codes. This course will be followed by BLDG 1835 B.C. Building Code: Part 3 Advanced. Students must bring the entire B.C. Building Code (hardcopy) to the first class.​
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

​​This course is a continuation of BLDG 1830. Provides a more advanced and complete understanding of all requirements of Part 3 of the 2024 BC Building Code and includes the basic skills required to understand and apply fundamental code concepts to building design and construction including flame spread ratings, safety within floor areas, fire alarm and detection, fire fighting provisions, vertical transportation, service facilities, high buildings, and accessibility. Students completing this course will be expected to carry out a basic building code analysis for complex Part 3 buildings.​
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDG 1830

This course establishes a working knowledge of the specific provisions that are unique to the Vancouver Building By-law (VBBL). The course builds on the provisions of the latest edition of the British Columbia Building Code. It provides the student with the additional code requirements for the design and construction of buildings in the City of Vancouver. The course will cover all of the unique to Vancouver provisions in Book I of the VBBL. The course will provide a comprehensive overview of the administrative requirements, specific requirements for alterations to existing buildings including the Upgrade Mechanism Model, energy requirements for new and existing buildings, adaptable housing and enhanced accessibility requirements, and specific sprinkler, spatial, fire department access, washroom, occupancy classification requirements and safety measures at construction sites. This course will be of interest to persons involved in the design and construction of buildings in the City of Vancouver.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDG 1830

This course covers the basics of Autodesk Revit in an architectural environment, from design through construction documentation. Students will be introduced to the tools and concepts of working with a fully parametric building modeler.
Prerequisite(s):

• Drafting skills and familiarity with Windows.

Continues from BLDG 2800, this course covers the advanced concepts of Autodesk Revit in an architectural environment. Gives students greater familiarity with the breadth of Revit Architecture's feature set.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDG 2800

This course covers basic 3-D CAD techniques (wire frame, surface, solid modelling and rendering) using architectural applications. This course will be followed by a six-week 3-D rendering course.
Prerequisite(s):

• Previous AutoCAD experience or BLDC 2405 is required prior to taking this course.

Covers basic concepts involved in architectural rendering and animating 3D models. Uses advanced 3D rendering software (3D Studio Max) to explore the concepts of materials, lighting and form, and how they are combined to create high-quality presentation media.
Prerequisite(s):

• 50% in BLDG 3400

Covers measurement and pricing of construction work using Timberline Estimating Software. This course will cover "take-off" procedures, building databases and designing simple assemblies.
Prerequisite(s):

• BLDC 1300 or construction estimating experience with departmental approval, and familiarity with Windows.