Interest in metal cladding is continually growing because of its sustainable features: durability, long life span, recyclability, and contribution to cool roofs. Manufacturers provide a wide range of panel profiles, materials, and colors to meet the increased demand. This course examines the performance characteristics and attributes of metal roofing and cladding, different aesthetic options, and best installation practices, as well as how they contribute to more energy-efficient buildings....
Concrete structures often face some of the most challenging environments, where chemical reactions can rapidly cause erosion and reduced service life. This course explores how acid attack, microbially induced corrosion (MIC), and carbonation compromise the structural integrity of concrete. It covers the origins and damaging effects of these processes, such as cracking, spalling, and corrosion. Learners will discover waterproofing strategies that prevent deterioration through performance-based admixtures that combine antimicrobial and crystalline technologies, along with a visual detection system for on-site verification. Designers will be better equipped to specify protective measures that extend the service life of concrete structures, reduce long-term maintenance, and lower the project’s carbon footprint....
A high-performance building envelope, such as one made with architectural insulated metal panels (IMPs), serves as the building’s primary defense against environmental elements and protects the health and well-being of its occupants. This course reviews the components and benefits of IMPs, which offer all four control layers—air, vapor, thermal, and water—within a single component, delivering superior thermal performance and high-end design....
Stormwater management is a critical component in any municipality to retain and infiltrate increased runoff volumes and flow rates from developed land that creates increased impervious cover (roofs and pavements). The course discusses the hydrologic and structural design fundamentals of permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) and why it is an excellent choice to help meet stormwater management goals. Discussions include the benefits of using PICP, components of PICP, design and construction considerations and how use of PICP can help earn LEED® credits....
View the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) Course Library
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....
Underslab moisture is something that designers need to take into consideration in both the design and construction phases of a building project. It can cause many problems for the building and the health of its occupants over the course of its life span; however, if properly addressed during design and construction, many of these issues can be mitigated. This course looks at the different types of moisture movement that exist below the slab, examines solutions for a variety of site conditions, and reviews best practices for managing moisture....
Underlayment is an integral part of roof system design, so it’s vitally important to understand how underlayment interacts with the specified roof covering material. This course will take a holistic view of roof systems and explore the different categories of underlayment, as well as options that can optimize performance and compatibility with roofing materials. It will also explore performance attributes of different underlayment categories and how superior products can increase energy efficiency, wind resistance, and fire resistance....
Exterior wall systems are the dividing line between the exterior and the interior and must address several fundamental performance goals of the building envelope. This course reviews traditional rainscreen design and examines why, with its single-component construction, an insulated composite backup wall system is a vast improvement over traditional multicomponent building technology....
Continuous insulation is part of building standards and state and energy codes due to its ability to reduce thermal bridging and the associated heat loss and energy consumption. This course looks at the use of polyisocyanurate as a continuous insulation in Type V and residential construction and its use as a multifunctional envelope component—air barrier, weather-resistive barrier, and vapor retarder—by reviewing code requirements for the building envelope....
View the PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association Course Library
PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association
Building science experts acknowledge the need for drainage in both vertical and horizontal applications in order to eliminate moisture issues and extend the life of the building. This course examines foundation wall, green roof, and plaza deck applications and discusses the factors that impact drainage, including soil permeability, saturation, land cover, and loading. Flow rate standards are discussed, and drainage composite mat installation is explained....
This seminar discusses the life cycle of buildings and materials, exploring some of the feasibility and reasons for reuse of existing building stock and/or their materials. Adaptive and non-adaptive reuse scenarios will be touched on, along with architectural salvage and appropriate material reclamation. Potential health and safety issues will be addressed, which sets the stage to continue the discussion in Re-Solution Part II: Sustainable Solutions and Hygrothermal Principles for Existing Buildings. The language of carbon is ever-present in environmental product declarations (EPD) and their lifecycle assessments ( LCA), and even some material disclosure platforms. We aim to define its relationship to existing and new buildings with a holistic view....
Mineral wool core panels provide an excellent alternative to foam core insulated metal panels and other traditional materials where the wall assembly need to be fire resistive. Ratings of up to three hours can be achieved by this product. These panels also provide all necessary control layers in a single component: air, vapor, water and thermal. Acoustic properties of the product are also evaluated. Product configurations including sizes, profiles and metal facings are studied. Code compliance and generic details are reviewed. Mineral wool core panels and their contribution to LEED credits are also studied....
The perimeter roof edge is the first line of defense against wind events and costly issues. Learn about why using a proper perimeter roof edge system is critical....
Wall system applications are becoming more and more common in the building envelope industry today. Explore the science behind wall systems and the tangible benefits of incorporating this technology into building structures. There is an emphasis on the differences between air barriers that are impermeable to vapor drive and air barriers that are vapor permeable and which is the best in each climate and wall assembly....
If you design, install, commission, maintain or repair metal roofing systems, this course will provide you with the tools and techniques to do your job correctly and avoid problems. Upon completing this course, you will be able to identify the best solutions to your metal roofing issues, whether you're working on new construction, performing maintenance, or re-roofing....
Introduction to various types and options in the market place for Specialty siding materials....
A summary of thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems and a review of several alternative roofing systems. Highlights some of the characteristics of PVC membranes and describes the role of PVC roofing as a component in the design of sustainable high-performance buildings. Provides a review and discussion of some of the environmental aspects of PVC-based roofing products....
Cellular PVC cladding is delivering high performance characteristics in architectural applications that may not be available with other products. This course presents the benefits of cellular PVC as a cladding material and focuses on high performance coatings, how they work, and how their design contributes to their durability and longevity. This along with the architectural design of pre-finished PVC trim system to accompany the cladding....
This seminar, organized into 3 sections, will help you understand various aspects of the pitched slope residential roofing market. 1. The first section will review the history of roofing underlayments and their role in water management in the structure. This segment will explore the evolution of different kinds of underlayments under asphaltic shingles and the move towards synthetic underlayments. 2. The second section will review the types of synthetic roofing underlayments and common installation detail failures. This includes an overview of mechanically-fastened, self-adhered, and peel-and-stick roofing underlayments. 3. The third section will review ice damming and moisture intrusion resulting therein. This includes a review of how ice damming can occur, its effects, and strategies that can be employed to safeguard against it. 4. The last section will review the relevant performance criteria applicable to roofing underlayments. These include AC-188, QUV Accelerated Weathering Testing, EMMAQUA Testing, ASTM G154 Testing, and ASTM 4869...
View the DuPont Performance Building Solutions Course Library
This course explores the role of motorized pergolas in shaping contemporary outdoor spaces that balance energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and architectural design. Participants will learn how these systems support sustainable performance goals, discover key considerations for successful integration, and review best practices for specifying louvered roof solutions in both residential and commercial projects....
Introduce the concept of cold-liquid reinforced systems. Describe their advantages and attributes, particularly with respect to sustainability and minimal environmental impact. Illustrate their wide range of roofing, waterproofing and surfacing applications. Step by Step application methods to increase efficiencies and productivity, where and when to use these products on your own, guidelines based upon 50 years of experience for various kinds of applications, do and don't tips, helpful hints to increase productivity, how to install from mobilization, site set-up, demo, preparation of all substrate types, primer guidelines, installation of various membranes and installation of various top coats. Overview of bidding procedures and guidelines to better help specifiers, contractors, owners, general construction managers estimate more accurately. Provide a hands-on demonstration using a 2 component urethane liquid resin with fabric reinforcement to show application of the membrane field, flashings, pipe penetrations and drains. Demonstrate surfacing application for use over membrane....
While natural stone veneer has a timeless popularity in commercial and residential applications, its cost, weight, and availability can make it prohibitive for some projects. Natural-looking manufactured stone veneer alleviates those concerns but still requires time and experience in mortared stone installation. This course explores these options and then introduces the latest manufactured stone product, a panelized, mortarless veneer that installs with the ease, speed, and all-weather flexibility of siding. Application examples and case studies present the many options that offer a real stone aesthetic without the time, skill, and constraints required for mortared applications....
Understanding building physics is critical to proper building envelope design. Examined here are practical concepts for the building designer, including how cladding systems perform across different climate zones and applications. Environmental control layers and hygrothermal loads are reviewed, as is the concept of perfect/universal wall design. The course focuses on how single-component insulated metal panels (IMPs) function as a perfect/universal wall, simplifying wall system design and installation....
The construction industry has seen a substantial increase in moisture-related issues in exterior walls. This presentation will discuss how a rainscreen wall system prevents moisture build-up within walls by providing a means for drainage and ventilation. The presentation provides an overview of rainscreen principles and explains how to incorporate a rainscreen system in a variety of applications including stucco, manufactured stone, siding, and masonry cavity walls. This course will explore the critical role of rainscreen systems and proper ventilation in building construction. These elements not only protect against water damage but also contribute to a healthier, more energy-efficient living environment. Learn how integrating these features can extend the lifespan of your walls, improve indoor air quality, and ultimately save you money in the long run....
