The beautiful gray patina of zinc architectural metal has graced the rooftops of buildings in Europe for hundreds of years. This course examines the sustainable characteristics of zinc as a roofing material, including its 100% recyclability, zero VOC requirement, and low embodied energy production process. The life cycle analysis of zinc is examined, as is zinc’s long-term service life. Various types of roof and wall applications are also discussed....
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This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details.
Stormwater management is critical in an era when severe storms and sewer overflows are increasing in many areas. In urban contexts where open space is at a premium, using on-structure bioretention planters can be the ideal approach. This course explores the benefits of bioretention and how bioretention planters reduce peak flows and improve water quality. The course also discusses how bioretention planters should be designed, can perform as amenities, and contribute to meeting the requirements of green building certification programs....
Studies show that a breathable self-adhering roofing underlayment has the ability to: Provide drying Ease installation Extend the life of the roof assembly This course investigates current knowledge of breathable, vapor-open (permeable) roofing underlayments and their ability to mitigate water intrusion, reduce long-term exposure to wetted substrates, and enhance the drying capacity of the roof assembly — extending the life of the roofing...
One of the most complex and least understood areas where fire can propagate is at the perimeter of a multi-story building. Not only can fire spread 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 E2874....
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....
Rooftop HVAC equipment, waste receptacles, and other necessary but unsightly equipment are common in today’s commercial industries. Rooftop and ground screening can provide a solution for meeting code requirements while improving building aesthetics. In addition, screens may improve a property’s safety and security and establish privacy boundaries. This course offers an in-depth discussion of rooftop and ground screening, the various ways to screen, and considerations when selecting a screen. Different installation techniques and comparative characteristics of traditional screening methods versus unit-attached and modular screening methods are also discussed....
View the CityScapes Architectural Innovations Course Library
This course is focused on the essential aspects of below-grade waterproofing. It offers a comprehensive overview of the most prevalent technologies and innovative solutions designed for these critical applications. We'll uncover the common causes of membrane failures and share proven risk mitigation strategies to ensure the longevity and integrity of your projects. Enhance your expertise and learn best practices that can significantly impact your next project....
When designing the building enclosure from the substrate to the cladding, architects and designers face a host of challenges, from energy code and NFPA 285 fire testing compliance, to ensuring aesthetically pleasing façade design. This course, featuring a panel of four different industry experts, explains design trade-off complexities and strategies to maximize flexibility while maintaining code compliance—and ultimately build a dependable, robust building façade. First, experts will review the challenges of choosing and placing an air and weather barrier. Secondly, codes and thermal bridging will be analyzed to determine insulation and thermal spacer selection. Finally, we will explore critical challenges associated with continuous insulation and the requirements of a rainscreen cladding system....
We will discuss how Polyiso Continuous Insulation will improve the thermal performance of walls of Steel Stud Construction. In addressing the advantages of continuous insulation, we will also address the disadvantages of using steel studs without continuous insulation. We will discuss what Sustainability is related to and how it is measured, including factors that are involved in addressing Building Longevity, and how these concepts impact making buildings more energy efficient. We will look at various types of products used to achieve code-compliant designs with a perspective that addresses sustainable construction. Looking towards the future we will discuss the actions being undertaken in conjunction with energy conservation and construction codes, building science organizations, and other groups in pushing proper building envelope design. We will also look at the history of Polyiso and how this product is produced from raw chemicals, creating a completed board stock product....
View the Rmax - A Division of the Sika Corporation Course Library
This is a Product SpotLight Presentation. SOPRANATURE TOUNDRA BOX combines all the necessary components of a green roofing system into a modular tray. Each tray includes built in drainage slots, filter fabric, growing medium and pre-grown plants protected by a removable retention frame. Suitable for both small and large surfaces, these lightweight, easy-to-carry trays are easily assembled in minutes to create an instant green roof....
Kalwall’s translucent systems provide a perfect environment for both workers and equipment, with diffuse daylighting for visual acuity and unbeatable insulation values to prevent freeze-ups. Structures Unlimited’s pre-engineered, prefabricated and pre-finished enclosures, including removable skylights, can be erected in days to provide fast solutions for immediate use. Plus, systems are mildew, fungus, corrosion and termite resistant for low maintenance and longevity. Learn how we can help you build efficient, effective water treatment spaces....
An overview of Acoustics and Noise Control principals and design methodology. A special emphasis is placed on looking at common building types where acoustics and noise control are often required....
Asphaltic-rubber membranes play a crucial role in the successful implementation of below-grade foundation waterproofing by forming a monolithic, flexible layer that protects the foundation and supports its long-term structural integrity. Presented is an overview of dampproofing and waterproofing, preparation requirements for foundation design, hydrostatic pressure, and positive- and negative-side waterproofing. Also discussed are the design of below-grade, vertical foundation waterproofing applications and guidelines for proper specifications. The course compares waterproofing membrane technologies and addresses insulation, drainage, and backfill requirements....
Green facades can contribute to building energy efficiency, durability, aesthetic value, sustainability, and cost effectiveness in the performance of ecological system services. This course examines the considerations required for successful green facade installations and includes discussions on system selection, design, plant selection, maintenance, and client/owner education....
This course reviews the definition of sustainability, and how Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Health Product Declarations (HPDs) are being used to address product transparency needs. We will review how IMPs provide all environmental control layers and how their use contributes to sustainable design. LCAs form the backbone of EPDs, and this course walks through the creation of EPDs as well as the environmental factors evaluated. HPDs are the latest tool used to study building product toxicity, and we will provide a complete review of how these important documents are prepared and used by owners, architects, designers and manufacturers. We finish up by studying how EPDs and HPDs are used in environmental rating systems such as LEED, Green Globes and Living Building Challenge....
Undesirable acoustics in educational spaces adversely affect the learning and teaching processes. The impact on students’ academic achievement, social adaptation, and mental health can be profound and long lasting. This course examines the impact of different sound problems and presents solutions that create synergy between the architecture and the classroom environment to optimize student learning and engagement and teacher retention....
View the Catalyst Acoustics Group Course Library
This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details.
Off-site construction practices for commercial projects are growing in popularity because of their ability to combat persistent industry challenges such as weather delays, skilled labor shortages, material availability issues, and price increases. While the benefits to off-site construction are undeniable, the upfront efforts required from the project team can cause apprehension. This learning will take participants on an off-site construction journey leveraging case studies to share firsthand experiences of successful projects that have been able to turn the upfront effort into a wealth of benefits....
This presentation will address the benefits of specifying architectural stone veneer in your design projects, and also provide information on proper installation techniques. Topics include a breakdown of the innovative mold technology used by the industry’s leading manufacturers of architectural stone veneer and what to look for in a high-quality product. The presentation will also include an in-depth overview of installation techniques and evaluate alternative wall systems and regulations....
This course will investigate the history of exterior stucco to the most recent developments in stucco assemblies designed with innovative weather resistive air barrier membranes in a ventilated rainscreen wall assembly. Participants will identify drainage and venting requirements and understand the details of stucco wall systems. The course will explore case studies from failure to remediation, including successful projects utilizing the new innovative all-in-one drainage matrix and weather resistive air barrier technology....
Metal roofing is often preferred for retrofitting a low-slope roof due to its durability, ease of installation, energy efficiency, and water channeling capabilities. This course examines why metal roofs fail, the types of structural standing seam panels, and the pros and cons of different methods for recovering an existing low-slope roof....
According to building professionals, the solution to achieving an energy-efficient building envelope is to focus more on the roof. Protected membrane roof (PMR) assemblies deliver thermal efficiency and can play a valuable role in a sustainable design strategy. Presented in this course is a review of the components, advantages, ballast options, and design and installation considerations of PMR assemblies....
The course details the benefits of designing with natural metals such as zinc, stainless and copper in order to achieve a uniquely aesthetic style with complex curves and tapers of the metal panels for a roof or a wall application....
With the rise in popularity of green roofing, many municipalities are adopting requirements for sustainable design from LEED and other sources. As this creates an increased frequency, design professionals require an increased level of knowledge as to how to create green roofs within the framework of waterproofing, thermal envelope, elevation limits, and other complex issues. This program will provide the attendees with a solid background to solve these problems....
In this video series course, we cover common metal roofing installation considerations. The first video discusses typical metal roof penetrations and details for proper installation. The second video presents metal enhancement options and design and installation tips to prevent premature corrosion in marine environments. The final video explores the expansion and contraction of standing seam metal roofs and how points of fixity accommodate thermal movement....
