ARC 218 - Construction Methods and Materials

This course provides an introduction to building construction practices and building materials. Emphasis is on structural systems, construction materials and detailed finishing operations required to make a serviceable and sustainable structure. The methods, materials, and structural systems used in the construction of core and shell components of buildings will be examined. Topic areas include site work, foundations, steel framing, reinforced concrete framing, wood framing, floor, exterior wall and roof systems. The course includes an overview of mechanical systems, working drawings, specifications and the roles of the owner, architect/engineer, constructor and project management representative in the construction process.

Sustainability of buildings will be integrated throughout the course with emphasis on recent advances and research in the area of green materials. Each building material will be analyzed as to the overall properties of the material and its value relative to issues of sustainability (lifecycle costs/environmental stewardship/local resource.)
Prerequisites: ENG 096 , MAT 022
3 lecture hours per week
3 credit hours