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....
In this course, we will explore the features and outdoor applications of elevated deck systems that enable architects to optimize outdoor spaces with functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal, creating attractive and safe spaces for occupants. This course covers the system components for practical applications in various settings, offering insights into proprietary pedestal systems....
Kalwall’s diffuse, full-spectrum natural daylighting delivers soft, serene natural light to places of worship, creating a spiritual setting that both soothes and inspires. Over the years, many designers have utilized Kalwall to great effect, often simulating stained glass windows with our colored inserts. Learn how you can incorporate Kalwall into your next church or religious space....
Commercial roofing systems are quite varied. As such, their performance expectations are varied, and their suitability for different applications vary. Certain types of high performance roofing systems require specific components, and performance standards to achieve energy efficient and durable life cycle performance. This course describes the high-performance attributes of extruded polystyrene (XPS) and cellular glass insulations in commercial roofing applications including PRMA (plaza deck, vegetative roofs, and split slabs), unprotected roof membranes, architectural metal and asphalt pavement systems for which cellular glass and XPS are uniquely suited. It defines the building code/performance standards and best specification practices for those systems. Further, it compares various insulation types, how they are manufactured, and how the manufacturing process affects the physical properties and performance of each type of insulation....
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 specialty clips and connectors that enhance performance and durability. Additionally, participants will explore labor-saving products available in the industry to improve efficiency and speed during construction. Finally, the course familiarizes participants with industry tools designed to aid in the design of connectors for building structures, equipping them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and ensure the stability and durability of buildings....
Rainscreens are a multicomponent system offering redundancy in resisting the weather; however, continuity of each component is critical. When an insulated metal panel (IMP) is used within the system, it can function as a number of these components, simplifying installation and improving performance. This course looks at IMPs acting as barrier walls behind various rainscreen systems, with a discussion on the performance characteristics for air, water, vapor, and thermal management....
This panel discussion explores building sustainable designs for energy efficiency, water efficiency and stormwater management starting from the roof. With urban heat island effect compounding the global warming from climate change, we are in urgent need of understanding how the roof can be very effective in delivering sustainable, high performance buildings while incorporating stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs). Smart material choices and quality and environmental performance certifications are part of assuring performance meets design intent. In addition, job site pain points and project insights for maximizing building design performance will be shared....
View the DuPont Performance Building Solutions Course Library
This presentation provides a comprehensive examination of the risks inherent in mid-rise construction and their direct impact on long-term building performance, safety, and occupant welfare. Participants will explore the shortcomings in current building codes that may allow for vulnerabilities and damages in these structures. The session will also address how natural movements within wood frame assemblies can compromise the integrity of the building envelope, creating pathways for moisture intrusion, structural stress, and premature material failure. In addition, the course will highlight the challenges of material compatibility at critical construction junctures—including parapets, balconies, roof-to-wall intersections, and transitions between dissimilar claddings—where failures frequently occur. Finally, attendees will gain insight into the external industry pressures, such as reduced budgets, accelerated schedules, and shifting market trends, that often undermine construction quality and limit the implementation of best practices. Through this exploration, architects, engineers, and construction professionals will gain strategies to recognize risk factors, improve design and detailing, and safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants."...
View the Florida Concrete & Products Association, Inc. Course Library
The Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is not just an idea about how to “grade the greenness” of products; it is a well-developed, globally recognized way to make responsible comparisons and decisions regarding sustainable material design and continuous improvement. This course discusses the concept of the EPD as applied to building materials and how to integrate EPDs into design and product selection decisions. Detailed information from different thermal insulation EPDs is used to demonstrate how thermal insulation provides a unique and significant payback in terms of energy and environmental impacts....
View the PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association Course Library
PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association
Focusing on Canadian construction code and construction, this spotlight highlights the versatility of BASF Canada’s WALLTITE closed-cell insulation system, providing innovative project solutions and code-compliant assemblies for exceptional design flexibility. Discover WALLTITE’s unique properties and benefits that make it the ideal choice for various construction applications....
Manufactured stone veneer is an inspirational design element, born from innovative technology and creative solutions. Also known as MSV, manufactured stone veneer is lightweight, non-load bearing building material used as a decorative wall covering for exterior or interior surfaces in both residential and commercial construction. Manufactured stone veneer products are cast in molds taken from carefully selected natural stone, using a process that faithfully captures even the faintest detail. The use of molds allows the stone to have a unique aesthetic and panelized systems allow for quicker installation. Manufactured stone veneer products adhere to any structurally sound surface and require a simple installation process of lath, scratch coat, mortar, and grout. Each color and texture uses a blend of Portland cement, lightweight natural aggregates, and iron oxide pigments. Even on close examination, manufactured stone looks and feels like natural stone....
Discover the correct selection, specification, engineering, and design process to create safe and permanent roof attachments for various needs. Learn how to properly identify rooftop thermal cycling and manage the correct installation process. Identify correct installation practices of any rooftop penetration to maintain weathertightness warranties. Learn how to meet local and national building code requirements and other safety specifications for various rooftop accessories. Discover the ease of installing rooftop safety equipment and accessories safely without voiding roof manufacturer warranties on metal roofs....
Wood is not only visually appealing; it plays a vital role in shaping acoustics. This course examines the acoustic properties of wood and its applications in wood-based architectural solutions, focusing on how acoustic wood products can help control noise in commercial and residential environments. Also reviewed is how these products support sustainable design objectives, including their role in meeting the criteria of the LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems, as well as the WELL Building Standard™ v2. The presentation features design strategies and case studies that illustrate the effectiveness of acoustic wood products in achieving superior performance....
View the Catalyst Acoustics Group Course Library
This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details.
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 course features an overview discussion on sustainability in the built environment, including common terminology and guidance on what tools/resources are used in designing for low embodied carbon green building projects. In addition, it reviews certification platforms and how to optimize product attributes with the many commercial roofing assemblies....
Precast concrete pavers and roof deck systems enable designers to deliver on aesthetics and design objectives while achieving safety and durability requirements. Patented roof deck systems allow for the creation of safe and stable roof deck patios and green roofs that maintain sustainability requirements. This course examines the raw materials used in these systems, reviews the different finishes available, and discusses different paver applications and their methods of installation....
From line-of-sight protection to blast and fire performance, Kalwall offers a safe solution across markets. Learn more about all the powerful security features of our translucent panels and how to use them to create the safety and security we all value....
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
When the asphalt fumes, open flame, and kettles that accompany hot-applied roofing are not permissible, cold-applied roofing is an option. There are a variety of types of cold-applied roofing that offer easy portability of materials to the roof, smaller roofing crews, ease of application, and a low-VOC option. In this course, we focus on the adhesive application of modified bitumen membranes using bituminous cold-process adhesives, the adhesive types, their components and characteristics, application methods, and design and use considerations....
Standing seam metal roofing has been used successfully in the United States for centuries, and proper specification is key to realizing its intended performance. Examined here are: the factors driving the demand for standing seam metal roof and wall systems; standing seam panel basics; gauge and grade; oil canning; specification considerations; testing standards; and forming, delivery, storage, handling and warranty....
The ultimate replacement for natural cedar and the perfect accent for engineered wood and fiber cement....
Modular metal panel (MMP) wall systems allow for an array of different exterior and interior building designs due to their wide range of panel sizes, planes, and layout configurations. This course covers the attributes of MMPs, including the available substrates, their fabrication and ease of installation, and their ability to deliver a simple, constructible concealed-fastener rainscreen system....
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of building general commercial structures using Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs). Participants will gain valuable insights into how ICFs enhance the design and construction process, delivering superior efficiency, durability, and sustainability. The program also examines how these innovative construction methods benefit building occupants and owners through improved energy performance, comfort, and long-term cost savings....
This presentation focuses on wind design requirements for commercial low-slope roofing. The presentation covers building code history, ASCE 7, future tornado wind design requirements and agency approvals for wind uplift resistance for low-slope roofing....
This course explores how to use coil and extrusion coatings in the built environment, and how innovative coatings contribute to sustainability initiatives....
