Rough openings are holes in the building enclosure, fitted with fenestrations that leak or will leak. It is critical to properly direct those leaks out of the enclosure. Designs for rough opening specify; tapes, sealants or flashing materials that are water, air, water vapor tight or vapor open. When detailed and installed correctly, most of these materials prevent water from entering into the interstitial wall cavities, allow the “leaks” to drain out of the building enclosure. Tapes, sealants and flashing components can fail over time or are improperly installed allowing water intrusion, trapping the water is vapor impermeable. By utilizing vapor open systems for rough opening materials, water that once trapped by impermeable flashing systems can escape via vapor diffusive drying. This presentation will describe failures, correct installation and testing of rough opening flashing and address current research on vapor open rough opening systems and how permeability enhances rough opening assembly performance....
Understanding how insulated metal panels comply with fire safety regulations under the code are critical to their proper use in creating highly energy efficient and sustainable buildings. This course takes a relatively complex subject and addresses the most important fire safety related aspects to allow building designers to make an informed decision on the use of these popular cladding systems. We will review how these products have been addressed in the development of the International Building Code, including their applications in both combustible and noncombustible structures as well as single and multi-story construction. The program will conclude with a look at the various third-party product listings, evaluation reports, and engineering judgements used to evidence compliance with the International Building Code....
A rooftop solar photovoltaic system offers myriad benefits to both building owners and the environment; to maximize the benefits, however, it is important to be aware of the potential causes and effects of problems with rooftop installations. This course presents the issues to consider to prevent damaging the roof, voiding the roofing warranty, and incurring additional costs. Solar system mounting options are explored in terms of how they can help eliminate concerns around rooftop installations....
This course will go over how EPDs and HPDs play a valuable role in LEED v4.1 Materials and Resources and the importance of product transparency. It also discusses the changes made in LEED v4.1 under Materials and Resources category with guidelines for using credit substitutions. This presentation will also cover the supply chain, recycled content and benefits of building with steel....
Undesirable acoustics in educational spaces have long been considered averse to our goals to effectively teach, create, collaborate, listen, and learn. Now, in the wake of implementing pandemic protocols, our acoustic comfort in these spaces is greatly challenged. This course examines the impacts of poor soundscapes in educational facilities and introduces innovative solutions for improving acoustics in these areas while keeping us comfortable and safe from exposure to emerging viruses....
This course explores the critical aspects of fire-rated head-of-wall joint assemblies, providing design professionals with essential knowledge to enhance the safety and integrity of construction projects. Through an in-depth exploration of key concepts, participants will gain an understanding of fire-rated joint assembly components, the application of Steel Intumescent Fire Stops in diverse construction assemblies, and the standards essential for establishing UL-certified assemblies. Design considerations for specifying and detailing the protection of fire-rated perimeter joints will also be discussed....
As part of a well-designed rainscreen system, single-skin metal panels offer unique aesthetic options combined with the assurance that the building envelope will withstand the effects of long-term exposure to the elements. This course compares common cladding types; presents single-skin metal panel materials, coatings, finishes, and design options; and examines using single-skin metal panels with a single-component barrier wall to form a complete rainscreen assembly. This course is one of two identical courses titled Single-Skin Metal Panel Building Envelope Solutions . You will receive credit for taking only one of these courses. ...
Discover the art and science of snow control on roofs and its effects. Examine the liabilities of improper or no snow retention. Learn how to properly engineer snow guards, minimize hazards and increase safety. Reveal critical considerations when choosing a snow guard system. Review specification techniques to limit liability....
This is a Product Spotlight Presentation Discover SOPREMA’s latest advancements in residential and commercial building solutions in this fast-paced 15-minute spotlight. From trusted RESISTO legacy products—including membranes, coatings, and accessories—to exciting new offerings like VPSA, Butyl Tapes, RX Roof Repair, Joist Guard, and Repair & Seal Tape Pro, this session will showcase the performance and versatility of SOPREMA’s product lineup. Join us for a quick yet informative look at how SOPREMA continues to set the standard in building protection and innovation....
The ultimate replacement for natural cedar and the perfect accent for engineered wood and fiber cement....
Green or vegetative roof systems have become an effective means to address aesthetic and environmental issues and provide energy savings for building owners, while at the same time providing protection for a building and its contents through the use of a high-performance waterproofing system. This program describes the basics of vegetative roof systems and outlines some cost and construction considerations for designers....
Green or vegetative roofs have long been considered excellent for mitigating stormwater runoff and the heat island effect and reducing the energy load of building HVAC systems. However, their installations have also resulted in many additional benefits, such as increased tenant retention, improved human experience, and longer lifespan of the roof’s waterproofing membrane. This course provides an introduction to green roofs and describes the different types and components, including waterproofing membranes, drainage, and vegetation-free zones. It also examines how green roofs may help meet credit requirements in the LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction and SITES® v2 rating systems....
This course provides a deep dive into the forward architectural trends that are having impact across the residential market at large. Specifically, the content herein addresses how evolving cultural and consumer shifts are impacting exterior design - and how that impact in turn influences color choices, color usage, materials and roofing selections....
Our learning objectives for this course all surround the core value & concepts of metal panel. We briefly Identify market sectors for architectural insulated metal panels. Understand the thermal performance advantages of insulated panels along with the basics of panel installation including wall framing requirements. Discuss how IMPs perform the necessary envelope control functions through a single component systems while accelerate speed of build. This course will also describe the aesthetics, design flexibility and integrated accessories available with architectural insulated metal panels....
As the market continues to transform the way sustainable buildings are designed, single-skin metal roof and siding products are at the forefront of contributing to healthier built environments. This course breaks down the material inputs and sustainable attributes of single-skin metal roof and siding panels and includes an overview of how the panels can contribute toward earning several LEED ® for Building Design and Construction credits in v4.1....
his course provides a comprehensive overview of using Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) in the design and construction of educational facilities. Participants will learn how ICF technology enhances energy efficiency, reduces operational costs for school boards, and improves health and safety for students and staff. The program highlights the versatility of ICFs, including their potential to support multi-use needs during crises. By addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of educational buildings, this course empowers professionals to implement innovative solutions that create efficient, safe, and sustainable learning environments....
This is a Product SpotLight Presentation. Want spring performance without the complexity? Learn how the RSIC®-ADAPT works, where it excels, and why it’s the next revolution in high-performance sound isolation. Whether you’re an architect, engineer, contractor, or acoustics professional, this session focuses on the key benefits, real-world applications, and performance advantages that make RSIC®-ADAPT a game-changing solution. Spring performance with the installation simplicity of RSIC-1....
Protected Membrane Roofing (PMR) assemblies have been widely adopted in low-slope commercial buildings since the late 1960s. Also known as the Inverted Roof Membrane Assembly or Upside Down / Inverted Roof, PMR assemblies move the waterproofing membrane from the top of the roof assembly to the surface of the structural deck. This simple design change provides several advantages over conventional roof assemblies that have their waterproof membrane fully exposed at the top surface. For architects, PMR assemblies present many opportunities to create innovative, sustainable, and efficient buildings. The most significant advantage is that PMR assemblies offer superior protection against water penetration, which reduces the likelihood of leaks and extends the lifespan of the roofing system. They also offer enhanced energy efficiency, from the strategic insulation layer placed above the waterproofing membrane. This course will also show how PMR assemblies provide ample opportunities for sustainable design integration. They allow for the creation of green roofs or Blue Roof systems, which provide environmental benefits like rainwater harvesting. With its proven record of reliability, PMR assemblies present a compelling solution for architects seeking innovative, sustainable, and efficient roofing option...
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Building a stronger connection with nature is critical for humans to maintain health and well-being. Composite wood decking is a durable, environmentally sustainable product that can help build links with nature through applications including home outdoor rooms, roof gardens, healing spaces, and public boardwalks in green spaces....
Discuss IRC Egress Code and the possible Product choices, attributes and Factors which could effect performance Review the installation process, Egress window well design trends...
One of the most complex and least understood areas where fire can propagate is at the perimeter of a multistory building. Fire can spread not only from floor to floor via the edge-of-slab/curtain wall intersections but also along the exterior building enclosure where untested, combustible components are often installed. This program outlines best design practices for providing fire protection for building occupants per ASTM E2307 and ASTM E2874....
This course focuses on the rapidly growing data center industry and how critical it is to control noise for facility employees and residents living in neighboring areas and to follow city ordinances. The noise issues data centers pose for their workers and their external surroundings are examined, and practical solutions are reviewed....
An overview of walkable, waterproof roof deck membranes and roofing systems, including a discussion of the key principles of deck design, design considerations, and how to install and specify roof deck membrane systems. This program will be extremely beneficial to architects, specifiers, and contractors involved in single and multiple-family homes that include decks, balconies, and rooftop decks....
Green roof systems are typically described in terms of soil depth (intensive vs. extensive) or where they are assembled (built-in-place vs. modular). These are useful categories, but do not address key elements of green roof design, such as drainage, water storage, roof slope, and other considerations. This presentation will review different green roof systems and components, and their use in meeting project goals relating to storm water management, integration with hardscape, and constructability....
