2026 Convention Session Course: Soffit Detailing Strategies for Performance and Durability in Modern Building Enclosures (Wartman E., Li X.)

Soffit Detailing Strategies for Performance and Durability in Modern Building Enclosures
(Wartman E., Li X.)

Course Overview
This session was originally presented at the 2026 IIBEC Convention & Trade Show in Sacramento, CA. 

This course includes the following required components.

• recording of the live session
• summative assessment consisting of 10 multiple-choice questions
• course evaluation survey

Description
Soffits are often overlooked in the design and construction of the building enclosure, yet small missteps can significantly impact thermal performance and air and moisture management. This presentation explores common failures and best practices in soffit detailing, grounded in field investigations and building science analysis. Using WUFI hygrothermal modeling and THERM thermal bridging analysis, we will examine how soffit design affects drying potential, condensation risk, and overall enclosure performance—particularly in climate zones where venting, drainage, and thermal continuity must be carefully balanced. Through case studies and simulation results, we’ll demonstrate how improper soffit detailing can lead to condensation issues, material degradation, and occupant discomfort. The session will offer best practices for detailing soffits to ensure continuity of air and water barriers, maintain thermal continuity, and avoid costly failures. Special focus will be given to vented vs. unvented soffit strategies, material transitions, and performance-driven design decisions. This session is intended for building enclosure consultants, architects, and contractors involved in the design, evaluation, or rehabilitation of building enclosure systems. Attendees will leave with actionable detailing strategies, diagnostic red flags, and a deeper understanding of the critical role soffits play in high-performing enclosures—not just for aesthetics, but for durability, comfort, and code compliance.

Authors/Speakers
Emily Wartman, P.Eng
Project Consultant
Simpson Gumpertz & Hager

Xiaoran Li, PE
Consulting Engineer
Simpson Gumpertz & Hager

Course Access
Courses are accessible in LearnUpon for one year from the date of purchase.

Course Recommended Prerequisite(s)
Attendees should have a basic understanding of exterior wall assemblies and building enclosure principles. Familiarity with moisture management strategies, thermal performance considerations, and typical construction detailing practices—particularly at transitions such as eaves and soffits—is recommended. Experience with reviewing or developing construction details is beneficial but not necessary.

IIBEC Core Competencies: Exterior Walls

Knowledge Level: Intermediate

Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in the session content at the 2026 IIBEC Convention & Trade Show are those of the content author(s)/speaker(s) and do not necessarily reflect the policies or positions of the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC). IIBEC makes no warranty, whether express or implied, as to the completeness, accuracy or validity of the information provided.

Credit Start Date 1/23/26              
Credit Expiration Date  1/23/29

Continuing Education Credit Statement
This course is approved for 1.0 IIBEC CEH
This course is approved for  1.0 AIA LU/HSW
AIA Course Number: CONV26_17_OD
AIA Provider Number: G024

Continuing Education Credit Claim Information

To claim IIBEC CEHs and download a Certificate of Completion, learners are required to complete all components of the course, including a passing score of 70% or higher on the summative assessment.  Participants are provided unlimited attempts to complete the summative assessment with a passing score of 70% or higher.

• After completing the course requirements download a Certificate of Completion. 
• Participants are responsible for self-reporting IIBEC CEH credit by uploading their Certificate of Completion to their IIBEC Portal. For assistance in self-reporting CEHs, please reach out to: cehs@iibec.org
• If you are a member of AIA and would like IIBEC to report your participation in the course to AIA, there is a place in the course evaluation survey to input your AIA member number.

AIA CES Provider statement

IIBEC is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider G024. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs.  Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).

This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.