A metal roof combines performance and aesthetics to give commercial and residential buildings strength, longevity, and character. This course examines the features and benefits of standing seam metal roofing and explains the factors to consider when selecting a project-specific metal roofing system....
Equipment vibration that becomes structure borne can break out directly below or as is often the case far from the source. This presentation will cover the different types of isolation needed under machinal systems. Selection criteria of different isolation media will be offered for chillers, boilers, cooling towers. As important as the proper restraint of isolated equipment; the design and types of seismic and wind restraints will be presented....
The hospitality industry thrives on positive customer experiences. These experiences are often shared on social media, and reviews of a restaurant or hotel now commonly include the acoustical aspects of the experiences. Hospitality venues must be constructed to the highest standards in order to achieve the necessary level of customer satisfaction; this includes providing a positive acoustic environment for a wide range of situations. In addition to reviewing the basics of sound, sound movement, and sound measurement, this course details the comprehensive range of applications available to the designer to block unwanted noises, control the acoustics in large venues, and provide complete privacy where it is needed while improving the aesthetic appeal of each space as a result....
View the Catalyst Acoustics Group Course Library
This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details.
This course features a broad discussion on Vegetated Roof Systems, including their history, the variety of types, and the various components that comprise these systems, as well as their numerous benefits....
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....
This presentation originates from a research report written by the Applied Building Technology Group called Assessment of Water Vapor Control Methods for Modern Insulated Light-Frame Wall Assemblies. The report is extensive and includes compiled data from test homes, huts, and studies from the US, Canada, and Europe. The presentation utilizes the collected data from the research report in the form of a table to make easy insulation choices to prevent moisture issues. This presentation will first present the Building Science Concepts one needs to understand why things happen the way they do. The attendee will then be able to use that information to make informed decisions on how to design with wood framed construction. The presentation also breaks down some of the findings about wood sheathing and how it has been standing up over the years....
View the Rmax - A Division of the Sika Corporation Course Library
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....
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...
Roof-top amenity spaces are transforming modern building design, offering innovative ways to boost property value, attract and retain tenants and employees, and enhance overall building efficiency. These dynamic spaces not only create inviting environments with greenery and thoughtful landscaping but also contribute to sustainable practices. Selecting the right roof-top system and strategically placing it is a critical decision in both new construction and retrofits. This course explores the features, benefits, and key design and installation considerations for roof-top amenity systems....
Within building spaces, noise can be reduced by using materials or assemblies that isolate sound or mitigate its transmission. To do this, it is important to understand how sound moves through building materials and partitions and the impact of sound mitigation products. In this course, we look at the basics of sound as well as techniques and products to prevent sound transmission....
View the PAC International, Inc. Course Library
This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details.
Understand the basics of standing seam metal roof and wall systems. Identify grade vs. gauge and their importance for standing seam metal roofs and walls. Discuss oil canning and why it is prevalent with some metals but not others. Describe how to achieve greatest energy efficiency with metal roofs and walls. Describe storage, handling, onsite vs. controlled environment manufacturing, and how to obtain the right warranty for the product and application....
Green roof systems are designed on various roofing membranes and come with many different components depending on the many factors including the region, regulation, application, roof design to name a few. This presentation will review these assemblies and the value of options. Address key elements of green roof design, such as drainage, water storage, integration with membrane, and other considerations along with common problems to avoid. Finally, a discussion on construction sequencing and planning as well as solar integration to help the specifier better understand the technology around this segment of the building envelope to ensure greater success....
An examination and comparison of categories within the exterior trim market, focusing on category specific attributes relating to installation, sustainability, durability and maintenance....
A study of Aluminum cladding material used in architectural applications. The metal’s properties, aesthetics, technical aspects, manufacturing process, and appropriate design applications. An overview of the environmental aspects of aluminum completes the study....
The ultimate replacement for natural cedar and the perfect accent for engineered wood and fiber cement....
Structural fire protection guards essential structural components from the devastating effects of fire. This course examines the various active and passive fireproof methods that are available with a focus on the features, types, and design considerations of prefabricated fireproof structural columns designed for exposed exterior and interior load-bearing columns....
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....
This presentation will focus on the overview of various waterproofing, water retention, and drainage methods that meet the standards of today’s green roof applications. Along with an overview of soil options and vegetation that it can support....
Insulation can help increase overall energy efficiency, minimize the spread of fire, manage risks associated with moisture and mold, and improve occupant comfort. When designing exterior wall assemblies, the type and placement of insulation is critical. To address thermal performance, wall systems almost always feature insulation batts — friction fit between framing members. Depending on climate zone and construction type, though, insulation batts alone may not provide enough thermal resistivity. Continuous insulation is increasingly used in conjunction with insulation batts to optimize thermal performance....
This presentation focuses on Florida's wind design requirements for commercial low-slope roofing. The presentation covers new building code requirements, ASCE 7, future tornado wind design requirements and agency approvals for wind uplift resistance for low-slope roofing....
Wind forces always influence building design and detailing. This course focuses on one particular force, wind uplift, and its influence on roof paving system design and selection. It examines how wind loads and building configuration affect the design of roof paving systems; the codes, regulations, and calculation approaches that inform and control such designs; and the various options designers can use to design safe, appealing outdoor roof paving systems that will withstand even the strongest winds....
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 unutilized spaces in their buildings and provide an advantage over older buildings to attract tenants....
This course explains the design of adhered masonry wall systems typical of today’s best practices. It utilizes familiar masonry cavity wall design to show why proper ventilation and drainage typical in this wall type must also be used in adhered masonry veneer wall design, and explores the design differences and similarities between masonry cavity wall systems and adhered masonry veneer systems. It shows the results of improper wall design, common errors in adhered masonry installation techniques and product selection, and the correct techniques and products necessary for constructing sustainable, energy-efficient adhered masonry veneer walls that will remain free of water damage for the life of the building....
Installing snow retention systems on rooftop applications improves the safety of building occupants and can decrease the risk of property damage. This course identifies different snow guard styles and explains how each contributes to snow retention. Installation techniques are reviewed, and layout designs that maximize occupant safety and minimize hazards are also discussed....
Climate change has significantly altered rainfall patterns across the globe and one of the most promising solutions to improve urban and suburban resiliency is to transform rooftops into stormwater management tools. This presentation is a review of how Vegetative Roofs, where rain is stored in plants, growing media, and drainage components, and Blue Roofs, where rain is captured and stored in open spaces within ballast, under pavers, or under vegetative roofs, can be a tool for design professionals to address stormwater needs....