Invite costumers and guests into brightly lit spaces that encourage them to stay. Whether introducing a skylight to a hotel atrium or providing a whole new dining experience with a Kalwall façade, skyroof®, or canopy, we can help you discover a daylighting solution that keeps customers coming back....
An introduction to the use of Polyisocyanurate insulation to provide a Continuous Insulating Air & Water Resistive Barrier, providing energy efficiency, fire safety, sustainability, and a healthier indoor environment....
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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....
In today’s high performance building market, specifying materials that work together as a complete wall system is more critical than ever. Systems can help designers meet new energy codes, reduce costs and improve building function and sustainability while making the design process faster and simpler. This course will educate participants on the functional components and system attributes of the most common exterior wall system, steel stud with masonry veneer. The course will detail key system components such as continuous and stud cavity insulation, air/water resistive barriers, air sealing practices, masonry wall ties and water drainage/management practices. Key codes and standards will be reviewed to define system interaction and key specification practices to ensure wall system designs are consistent with recent advances in building analysis, new code requirements, revised test methods, and a comprehensive, systems approach to wall systems....
There is an extremely wide array of coated or composite fabrics available on the market, each type formulated for specific uses and with different levels of performance and quality. To assist in the decision-making process, standards have been developed to show product performance, facilitate quality control, and assure designers that the product they are specifying is suitable for normal commercial use. This course briefly outlines the history, properties, and uses of coated fabrics, the intent and content of one coated fabric standard, and the testing protocols that support it....
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Coated Fabrics and Film Association
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A naturally occurring radioactive gas, radon is a silent danger to our health. Colorless and odorless, it enters homes and structures through openings in the foundation and below-grade walls, becoming trapped in basements and other poorly ventilated areas. This course looks at methods of controlling radon, how it is addressed in building codes, the advantages of closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (ccSPF) over other insulation materials, and proper installation techniques....
Discover the basics of solar photovoltaic systems including the major parts for rooftop solar installations. Describe the basics of the rooftop installation mechanics and measures to minimize hazards and increase safety. Review critical parameters that should be considered when designing a roof to be solar ready. Reveal the advantages of installing solar on metal roofs, including performance and economic benefits....
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....
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....
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 of what they are, how they work, and what they do and don’t tell us. Importantly, this course covers shortcomings of the STC and IIC ratings that if not understood can lead to poor designs for noise control. In that vein, this course also looks at two new acoustic ratings, HIIC and LIIC, that provide a better insight into the impact-noise reduction provided by floor/ceiling assemblies. Finally, the course uses the knowledge gained about ratings to discuss general methods of improving the acoustic performance of floor/ceiling assemblies....
Stucco is a popular and durable finishing material that offers many benefits, combining safety and affordability while satisfying aesthetic needs. It can be applied to various surfaces using a lath system, which provides support for stucco. However, the quality of the stucco lath embedment can greatly affect its performance. This course covers the proper technique for achieving lath embedment, the different types of metal lath and their various applications, and regional material preferences....
Insulating concrete form (ICF) products use a cost-effective and robust structural material option (reinforced concrete) to turn a building envelope into a high-performing thermal, moisture, and air enclosure with disaster resistance and built-in compliance with energy code requirements. As a result of ICF performance, building owners can complete a whole structure with ICFs and reinforced concrete, including intermediate suspended floors, rooftops, and multistory designs. This course examines the advancements in ICF technology and discusses the potential contribution of ICFs to supporting improved sustainability and resilience....
Join us for our webinar series with a focus on Sports + Recreation projects. There are many reasons that Kalwall is such a natural fit for coaches, athletes, trainers and fans alike. Providing glare-free, full-spectrum light is ideal for videography, mental focus and visual acuity. Learn more about how Kalwall can help you build a facility fit for champions....
A general overview of SOPREMA and our products and application methods. SOPREMA offers a comprehensive line of commercial roofing, waterproofing, wall protection, and civil engineering solutions combining superior products and systems with decades of proven performance. Our solutions include industry-leading SBS-modified bitumen membranes, polymeric PMMA/PMA liquid-applied membranes, and synthetic single-ply PVC membranes. For applications as diverse as roofing, below-grade waterproofing, plaza deck and balcony waterproofing, air and vapor barriers, and bridge and parking structures, SOPREMA has the solution. SOPREMA’s relentless pursuit of technological advancement, sustainability, and product quality has been known and respected around the world for over 100 years....
Carbon is a buzzword but what does it really mean in practical terms during new construction or renovation? Learn the answers through our informative AIA accredited 3-part series on “Re-Solutions.” Part 1: A Carbon Case for Building and Material Re-use...
Penetrations of the WRB are unavoidable, but it is critical to ensure that they remain watertight. The recommendations for sealing these penetrations are often based on unrelated test methods such as those for nail penetrations in roofing membranes or on anecdotal evidence. This course will cover a data driven test plan which was used to was used to determine which type of flashing and sealing solution is best to ensure water tightness after cladding attachments are installed over polyisocyanurate insulating sheathing. Additionally, information on how other single-layer insulating sheathing systems allow for water tightness of the assembly after cladding attachment will be discussed....
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Knowing the importance of preserving existing buildings and material, as explored in “Re-Solution Part I: A Carbon Case for Building and Material Re-use” this course will examine which strategies are best for different structures and situations. We will explore different [a host] of scenarios and case studies, with an eye towards the potential for improvement across the board. Carbon (dioxide) is a hot topic these days and will be a companion of sorts, though we will be sure to include H20 (oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen) since all of these work interdependently in buildings, colluding as an all-too-often overlooked enemy of sustainability: moisture damage. If a building leaks, it is not sustainable. Here we will brush with a broader stroke, emphasizing the need for good design and detailing, while exploring examples of successful wall and roof assemblies. In “Re-solutions III: Facilitating Architectural Re-use and Wiser Wood in New Construction,” we will hone in on specific factors which can help hedge successes and minimize pitfalls in implementing reuse strategies....
For many years, preformed metal wall panels have been a top choice for building owners and architects, offering an excellent blend of cost effectiveness, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, particularly in rainscreen and screen walls. This course examines the different materials, profiles, and finish options for these panels and dives into applications and best practices for design and installation....
This Choosing the right insulation for your roof can having lasting impacts on the building performance and energy conservation. This presentation explains the different types of commercial insulation, long-term performance and liabilities, re-usability and sustainable roof design approaches for long term owner, occupant and maintenance benefits....
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In this focused one-hour session, gain a clear understanding of the design, specification, and installation processes for joint sealants in high-performance building enclosures. Learn how selecting the right sealants for vertical and horizontal joints can enhance durability, efficiency, and occupant safety. This course emphasizes the critical role of proper joint design and installation in improving building health and performance, ensuring a safer environment for occupants....
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....
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....
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....
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-pitch roofs and the key characteristics of roofing systems that help to prevent roof deterioration and damage. It then highlights best practices in detailing and constructing steep-pitch roof systems that mitigate water, ice, snow, fire, or wind damage to the roof....
Welcome a new shift in design, where architecture and nature unite. Homes are built into landscapes, rather than overtaking nature, and incorporate elements of the earth into their design, promoting peace, creativity, and inspiration. Building materials, such as architectural stone veneer, are being used indoors and outdoors to reflect the qualities found in nature, including symmetry, surprise, and well-being. Not only does architectural stone veneer bring the beauty of nature into residential and commercial spaces, but it’s also a sustainable alternative to other building materials; it can be recycled, lower transportation and labor costs, and earn LEED credits. It is regulated by strict industry standards, providing durability and versatility, all while offering nearly limitless options in color, texture, look, and use....
