Course Description

Future code changes that are moving in the direction of highly insulated building envelopes – through BC’s proposed ‘stretch-codes’ and the growing movement towards net-zero energy housing -- will have a big impact on construction detailing and performance of buildings.

This session will discuss roof key considerations required when detailing roof assemblies, especially as energy standards are increased. This will include review of material options, code requirements, and building science principles that must be considered. This will include a discussion of air barriers, vapour barriers, materials and insulation options for roof assemblies. Roof insulation and detailing options for different roof strategies, such as vented or un-vented roof detailing will be discussed, with reference to current research information and coming code changes.

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Review of code requirements for roofs and coming insulation requirement change
  • Understand the role of air barriers and vapour barriers in ensuring the durability of highly insulated roof assemblies
  • Review material selection considerations including in particular the air and vapour permeability of insulation materials
  • Review alternative insulation strategies


Approved for 1.5 CPD points under the Building Code category
Note: If you have already taken this course in person, repeating it online will not qualify for additional CPD points.


Course curriculum

  • 1

    Chapter 1

    • Before You Get Started

    • Agreement to HAVAN Academic Integrity Policy

    • Part 1
  • 2

    Chapter 2

    • Part 2
  • 3

    Chapter 3

    • Part 3
  • 4

    Chapter 4

    • Part 4

    • Feedback

    • Declaration of Completed Work Assignment

Richard Kadulski, Richard Kadulski Architect

Richard Kadulski is a Vancouver architect who has specialized residential design for more than 40 years. He has been active on many industry technical councils and organizations, and with the R-2000 Energy Efficient Home Program since its inception. He is a member on the National Research Council of Canada Standing Committee on Housing and Small Buildings (Part 9 of the National Building Code of Canada).