Building Knowledge and Connections
Building Knowledge and Connections
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;...
This course aims to help architects, developers, colorists, and other specifiers understand which current popular exterior colors to continue using, which new colors to begin introducing, and what combinations will ensure successful palettes. The major design shifts in current U.S. regions as well as the cultural and consumer influences behind colo...
The materials we use have a significant impact on the environment, our communities, and our health. Consequently, material transparency—wherein manufacturers disclose vital sustainability information about their products—is an increasingly necessary element of modern life. This course examines the tools and resources that are available for both...
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 ex...
This course covers two widely used acoustic metrics, the STC and IIC ratings. Although these ratings are required by building codes and frequently used, they are still often poorly understood and there are many myths and misconceptions around their use. This course looks “under the hood” of the STC and IIC ratings to get a better understanding ...
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 t...
Residential building envelope assemblies need to deliver a wide range of benefits – from reducing energy waste to maintaining occupant comfort to providing critical shelter during severe weather events. Each component of the envelope has an important role to play, including the insulation. This presentation introduces the key benefits and attribu...
View the PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association Course Library
PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association
This introductory course on spray polyurethane foam (SPF) covers component chemistry, different types of SPF, and the proper use of SPF in construction applications. In addition, the course addresses code compliance related to SPF for residential and commercial construction, as well as safe SPF installation practices. Participants will come away wi...
This course focuses on building connectors, providing an understanding of deflection and its importance in accommodating movement. Participants will learn about various types of deflection and drift clips used in the industry. The course also explores different support clips suitable for rigid attachments in building construction, as well as specia...
In basic roofing design vapor retarders and air barriers play a crucial role in reducing air leakage and enhancing roof system performance. However, their benefits extend beyond simple air sealing. This course explores the impact of new innovative technology: permeable vapor retarders and air barriers on moisture management, energy efficiency, and ...
Vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) offer higher thermal resistance per unit thickness than traditional insulation materials. This means a building envelope can meet the effective R-values for enclosures required by the energy codes without having to increase the thickness of the walls, roof, or floors. This course discusses how VIPs work, why they are...
View the Panasonic Industrial Devices, Building Materials Group Course Library
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. T...
The performance and durability of a roof are critical to the health, welfare, and safety of both building occupants and the building itself. This course examines the construction, materials, and best detailing practices that ensure the proper long-term performance of steep-pitch roofs. It describes and details layout options for assemblies of steep...
Having an up to date specification starts with understanding what is in the building code. This course reviews the requirements that steel framing must meet to be compliant to IBC 2021. It covers the standards for manufacturing tolerances, minimum thickness and protective coatings. Participants will also review fire-rated partitions...
Insulated metal panels (IMPs) are known for their superior heat loss control, moisture and air resistance, and striking aesthetic capabilities. This course highlights how these attributes can be integrated to create beautiful, healthy, and safe buildings. It explains how IMPs achieve air, water, vapor, and thermal control via an advanced and cost-e...
Metal roof and wall systems have long been specified for commercial, residential, and industrial buildings because they have a lengthy history of durability, reliability, and resilience. This course examines the attributes of metal panel systems and the design options that make metal-clad buildings sustainable, attractive, and suitable for a variet...
Spray polyurethane roofing is a commercial low-slope roofing system in use since the 1970’s with millions of square feet applied across North America. Attributes of this system are comprehensive, from substantial energy efficiency to durability features, as well as a superior sustainability profile compared to other conventional roofing systems. ...
The use of Adhered Veneer Masonry in commercial and multi-family residential markets has grown rapidly this past decade. However, Codes, installation details, and installer training have come at a slower pace. This program focuses on the architect’s role in designing and detailing code compliant adhered veneer systems....
This program provides an in depth look at the performance standards, testing and codes relating to Air Barrier Systems. This includes the 2015 IECC code requirements and NFPA 285 requirements. Participants will understand how to select the proper air barrier system for their project and the benefits a proper system provides....
This course will explore the fundamentals of architectural insulated metal panels, their performance benefits, and how insulated metal panels achieve air, water, vapor, and thermal control via a more advanced and cost-effective single component system that accelerates construction time. The course will also cover important design details to achieve...
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 va...
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 a...
Over time, urban parks and other open landscaped areas are being lost to development. One solution to mitigate this issue is to reconsider undeveloped areas such as building roofs to create green amenity spaces. Amenity decks can provide some alleviation of lost green space, while affording developers the potential to monetize underutilized spaces ...
View the Tournesol Siteworks Course Library
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Changes made to spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation formulations in recent years address the impacts of embodied carbon and other attributes of sustainable construction design. This course explores the evolution and environmental impacts of SPF chemistries, and how the sustainability benefits of spray polyurethane foam (also known as SPF), con...
Tour of Westlake Royal Stone plant allowing participants to observe the manufacturing process and to engage participants in understanding the processes, materials, and quality standards of cultured stone, and to increase understanding of the installation methods for this high quality, durable masonry product....