Today, architects and designers need to give special consideration to building acoustics when developing plans for new and newly renovated construction projects. Excessive noise in any environment is considered a serious problem that can negatively impact occupant comfort, leading to learning difficulties, sleep deprivation, delayed recovery from illness, and lack of privacy. Sound basics are discussed in this course, and STC, IIC, and sound attenuation (reduction) techniques are explained. Various case studies are examined to develop further understanding of the performance of common sound abatement assemblies that are essential for occupant well-being and comfort....
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This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details.
Learn how Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) insulation can be safely used in California residential construction to optimize cost efficiency while complying with Title 24 energy code and improving comfort, durability, and strength of homes and buildings....
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....
Waterproofing problem solving using PMMA CFA (Cold Fluid Applied) Roofing and Waterproofing Membrane Systems....
This course provides specifiers of masonry veneer walls the description of a complete high performance wall system that meets the wall systems requirements ASTM E2357 (Air Leakage), ASTM E331 (Water Penetration), and NFPA 285 (Fire Propagation). The wall components associated with moisture management and interactions with other system components are highlighted. Additionally, an effective and efficient means to specify such walls is presented....
Concrete is a very versatile and fundamental building material; however, because it is porous and wicks water through its matrix, concrete has water-related design challenges. This program examines the sustainable benefits of integral concrete waterproofing and analyzes traditional waterproofing methods as compared to integral methods in terms of performance, durability, risk, cost, and construction timeline....
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....
One of the more complicated issues today in building science is addressing moisture movement, since moisture can penetrate a building in several different ways and result in material degradation, air quality issues, and failure of the building enclosure. This course examines the ways moisture can enter a structure and discusses the role of different moisture control layers that, when correctly placed and installed, can prevent unwanted moisture infiltration....
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....
With the mainstream usage of the Cold Fluid Applied, Liquid Resin Roofing & Waterproofing Membranes; it is necessary to obtain the technical knowledge used to provide QC inspections. Course will provide attendees of basic "what to look for" information, some science related to the information, and corrective course of actions that may be possible....
This course explores how to use coil and extrusion coatings in the built environment, and how innovative coatings contribute to sustainability initiatives....
Maximizing Envelope Performance with IMP-Integrated Components explores an advanced insulated metal composite panel building envelope system, components that have been engineered to integrate with the system - including windows, daylighting panels, sunshades, and louvers - and how the IMP system and integrated components combine to create a high-performance building envelope....
This course is an overview of the advantages and design considerations, of utilizing insulated metal panels as part of a high performance building envelope strategy for cold storage projects and those in which a temperature controlled environment is vital. In addition to providing superior thermal performance and air tightness, insulated metal panels can accelerate speed of build and allow for greater design flexibility. As well, Insulated metal doors can play a huge role in the success of your project; this course examines the benefits associated with both insulated metal panels and various types of insulated doors....
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....
Reducing noise between occupied spaces isn’t just needed for occupant comfort and productivity, it is sometimes required by building code. This presentation is an overview of noise control principals, construction composites, and design methodology for ceilings, floors, and partitions. A special emphasis is placed on performance-oriented designs requiring third party consultants....
In designing successful interior building spaces that positively impact their occupants, it is critical to have knowledge of the principles of acoustics and noise control and link them to design methodology. This course explores these principles, with a special emphasis on common building types where acoustics and noise control are often required and noise can have detrimental effects on users, such as athletic facilities and performance spaces....
View the Catalyst Acoustics Group Course Library
This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details.
No discussion about a material’s sustainability is complete unless it addresses embodied carbon, the carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions associated with the material over its cradle-to-grave life cycle. Changes made to spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation formulations address the impacts of embodied carbon. This course explores the evolution and environmental impacts of SPF blowing agents, the performance benefits of SPF, physical property testing and certifications, and SPF’s potential LEED® v4 contributions. Case studies make evident the performance value of SPF....
The course is designed to teach attendees the differences between the insulation used in insulated vinyl siding....
We will discuss how Polyiso Continuous Insulation will improve the thermal performance of walls of Steel Stud Construction. In addressing the advantages of continuous insulation, we will also address the disadvantages of using steel studs without continuous insulation. We will discuss what Sustainability is related to and how it is measured, including factors that are involved in addressing Building Longevity, and how these concepts impact making buildings more energy efficient. We will look at various types of products used to achieve code-compliant designs with a perspective that addresses sustainable construction. Looking towards the future we will discuss the actions being undertaken in conjunction with energy conservation and construction codes, building science organizations, and other groups in pushing proper building envelope design. We will also look at the history of Polyiso and how this product is produced from raw chemicals, creating a completed board stock product....
View the Rmax - A Division of the Sika Corporation Course Library
High-performing commercial roofs must be resilient and designed to perform over the long run, without compromising on the client's commitment to sustainability. Cellular glass insulation delivers a portfolio of performance attributes including impermeability, non-combustibility, long-term thermal performance, compressive strength, and resilience throughout the assembly. This course will spotlight real-world roof assemblies that leverage cellular glass insulation to achieve performance without compromise....
The construction industry has seen a substantial increase in moisture-related issues in exterior walls. This presentation will discuss how a rainscreen wall system prevents moisture build-up within walls by providing a means for drainage and ventilation. The presentation provides an overview of rainscreen principles and explains how to incorporate a rainscreen system in a variety of applications including stucco, manufactured stone, siding, and masonry cavity walls. This course will explore the critical role of rainscreen systems and proper ventilation in building construction. These elements not only protect against water damage but also contribute to a healthier, more energy-efficient living environment. Learn how integrating these features can extend the lifespan of your walls, improve indoor air quality, and ultimately save you money in the long run....
Air barriers are intended to block air and moisture from getting into the building. But frequent testing and thermographic imaging shows that one common source of building leaks is at or near air barrier failures. Improper lapping and detailing of terminations, incompatible products, and lack of adhesion are just a few of the potential culprits. Proper project-specific testing ahead of construction can help prevent these failures before they become costly. This course will review industry-recognized requirements and test methods specified for air barrier membranes. Participants will also learn how enhanced testing can measure long-term performance, giving you piece of mind before construction begins....
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....
Provides an overview of the performance characteristics and benefits of using multi-layer, cellular PVC decking—a durable decking material that replicates the unique beauty of exotic hardwood....
Guided Manufacturing Plant Tour of Kemper System America's West Seneca, NY Facility. Tour includes a review of plant safety criteria (5 mins); QC & R&D labs (30 mins) introduction into various equipment used for ASTM and product testing; Warehouse tour (5 mins) including discussion of building design for containing potential spills to protect surrounding wildlife area; Distribution center (5 mins) discussions including QC process for incoming raw materials and outgoing products; Manufacturing overview (15 mins) showing machinery and processes for creating various liquid resins, primer, topcoats, & coatings....
