Waterproofing goes beyond merely keeping a building dry; it's an essential strategy to safeguard the building's overall well-being, guarantee the comfort and safety of its inhabitants, and uphold the property's value over time. This course provides an in-depth exploration of the newest waterproofing technologies, their intricate interconnections, and critical considerations for devising superior waterproofing specifications....
How to Achieve Superior Building Envelope Performance in Rainscreen Wall Design explores rainscreen wall design theory, how rainscreen walls control hygrothermal loads, and shortcomings of today’s multi-component backup wall assemblies used in rainscreen wall construction. The course will compare and contrast the common multi-component backup wall assembly with the single-component insulated metal composite backup wall system, and demonstrate how the latter overcomes deficiencies of the former in creating a building envelope with superior performance as well as other key benefits....
Green roof systems are typically described in terms of soil depth (intensive vs. extensive) or where they are assembled (built-in-place vs. modular). These are useful categories, but do not address key elements of green roof design, such as drainage, water storage, roof slope, and other considerations. This presentation will review different green roof systems and components, and their use in meeting project goals relating to storm water management, integration with hardscape, and constructability....
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....
A comprehensive plant tour at our Rmax Facility. Observe the insulation manufacturing process step by step from the initial order to the finished product by observing the raw material used, the manufacturer of the panels on the production line, panel cutting and stacking, panel wrapping and storage....
View the Rmax - A Division of the Sika Corporation Course Library
Anytime a facility has people working on a roof, their safety and protection must be the priority. Even under the best conditions, working on a rooftop is dangerous due to the roof’s elevation, slope, and edge, as well as other hazards created by weather conditions, electricity, and power tools. This course reviews the hazards of the rooftop environment and the relevant Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to aid designers, property owners, and facility managers in selecting safe access and fall protection systems for their buildings....
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....
An educational session exploring innovative floor coating systems, their applications, and how they contribute to sustainability and durability in modern architecture. Attendees will learn about advancements in materials, the importance of proper installation methods, and the role of floor coatings in enhancing the functionality of commercial and residential spaces....
This presentation introduces the fundamentals of living walls and their connection to biophilic design in architecture. We will explore how integrating greenery into building environments enhances aesthetics, improves air quality, and promotes well-being. This presentation provides architects and designers with practical insights on incorporating living walls into projects, ensuring both functionality and sustainability....
This is a Product Spotlight Presentation Discover SOPREMA’s latest advancements in residential and commercial building solutions in this fast-paced 15-minute spotlight. From trusted RESISTO legacy products—including membranes, coatings, and accessories—to exciting new offerings like VPSA, Butyl Tapes, RX Roof Repair, Joist Guard, and Repair & Seal Tape Pro, this session will showcase the performance and versatility of SOPREMA’s product lineup. Join us for a quick yet informative look at how SOPREMA continues to set the standard in building protection and innovation....
While natural stone veneer has a timeless popularity in commercial and residential applications, its cost, weight, and availability can make it prohibitive for some projects. Natural-looking manufactured stone veneer alleviates those concerns but still requires time and experience in mortared stone installation. This course explores these options and then introduces the latest manufactured stone product, a panelized, mortarless veneer that installs with the ease, speed, and all-weather flexibility of siding. Application examples and case studies present the many options that offer a real stone aesthetic without the time, skill, and constraints required for mortared applications....
This course provides an overview of impacts from natural disasters and identifies solutions for building back better. It discusses the use of closed-cell polyurethane foams as well as other performance materials for disaster durable construction applications, including responding to flood and wind events using approved methods and materials....
Modern roof systems and envelope assemblies (both commercial and residential) may need to deliver a wide range of benefits – from protecting against severe weather to reducing energy waste to improving occupant well-being and comfort. Each component of the building envelope has an important role to play, including the insulation layer. This presentation introduces the key benefits and attributes of polyiso roof insulation products, polyiso continuous insulation products used for above grade wall assemblies and below grade applications, and continuous insulation products used as part of residential envelope assemblies (steep slope roofs, above grade walls, and below grade foundation). Topics covered include: • Designing building and energy code-compliant roof assemblies and commercial and residential envelope assemblies. • Solving performance challenges like ponding water on roofs. • Solving performance challenges like thermal bridging and managing the threat of moisture and air intrusion in commercial and residential building envelope assemblies. • Reducing the environmental impacts of buildings with roof systems and envelope assemblies that contain polyiso insulation products....
View the PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association Course Library
PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association
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....
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....
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....
Protected membrane roof (PMR) assemblies have been widely adopted in low-slope commercial buildings since the late 1960s. Also known as inverted or upside-down roofs, PMR assemblies move the waterproofing membrane from the top of the roof assembly to the surface of the structural deck. This course explores how PMR assemblies provide several advantages over conventional roof assemblies, offering superior protection against water penetration and enhanced energy efficiency. The course also shows how PMR assemblies allow for the creation of green roofs or blue roof systems. With a proven record of reliability, PMR assemblies present a compelling solution for architects seeking innovative, sustainable, and efficient roofing options....
View the DuPont Performance Building Solutions Course Library
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....
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....
Stormwater management is a critical component in any municipality to retain and infiltrate increased runoff volumes and flow rates from developed land that creates increased impervious cover (roofs and pavements). The course discusses the hydrologic and structural design fundamentals of permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) and why it is an excellent choice to help meet stormwater management goals. Discussions include the benefits of using PICP, components of PICP, design and construction considerations and how use of PICP can help earn LEED® credits....
View the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) Course Library
There are a multitude of building envelope products used and a variety of methods taken for achieving energy and building code requirements. Understanding the different roles a product plays in the envelope simplifies its design. In this course, we take a look at the code requirements for buildings classified as IBC Types I–IV, paths to achieving compliance, and the number of roles polyisocyanurate insulation plays in meeting these requirements....
View the PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association Course Library
PIMA - Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association
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....
A growing number of high-rise fire incidents around the world have raised awareness about the fire safety performance of taller structures. Timing for containing a high-rise fire is critical, as high numbers of occupants have limited means of escape. Vertical fire spread along the exterior facade may quickly overwhelm firefighters at ground level, especially if it advances to heights beyond the reach of their ground attack. This course looks at issues surrounding high-rise fires, how they spread, and how following building codes and proper material testing can lessen the risk or impact of these blazes....
View the Owens Corning Course Library
This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details.
Pre-Cast Concrete assemblies are often the design solution to tight timelines and practical installation. With the addition of insulation and a toolkit of accessories, designers can improve efficiency, quality, and aesthetic often beyond stick-built options. How do you integrate continuous insulation into walls made from a series of panels shipped across the country? Join us to find out! Real-world case studies will be used to compare and contrast with frame construction....
Residential solar power generates clean energy, reduces carbon footprint, protects against rising electricity rates, and protects property from outages, but it is only effective during daylight hours. Adding battery storage to a solar system—called solar plus storage—removes this limitation and moves a home closer to energy independence. In this course, we will review the components of a solar-plus-storage system, including selection considerations for residential rooftop solar and DC-coupled solar batteries. The course also reviews the extended system of monitoring and DC charging....
