Construction Specifications Canada

Construction Specifications Canada strives to educate, connect and lead the design and construction community to achieve excellence in project delivery.

Click to Learn More About Construction Specifications Canada

Visit www.csc-dcc.ca and Join Now!

Displaying 1 - 25 of 646 results.

FIRST [1-25] [26-50] [51-75] [76-100] [101-125] NEXT LAST

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Fenestration openings are a critical component of a building envelope, especially in present-day sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. Building envelopes play an important role in controlling the movement of heat, bulk water, and water vapor. Designing fenestration openings for buildings that use continuous exterior insulation has a significant role in reducing thermal bridging and thus conserving energy. This course reviews the impact of exterior insulation on fenestration installation design. The course also explores solutions for a wide variety of wall system variations.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In applications where wood may be exposed to moisture, insects, or fungal organisms, preservative-treated wood can ensure a project’s durability. This course reviews: the manufacturing process for pressure-treated wood; types of preservative treatments and the required levels of retention as dictated by the end-use application, desired service life, and exposure conditions; American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) Use Category standards; current issues concerning preserved wood in residential and commercial construction; and Best Management Practices (BMPs) for aquatic uses.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The primary purpose of a roof is to provide shelter and protection; to do so effectively over the long term, proper drainage and ventilation are required. Presented here are the categories of metal roofing, the moisture- and noise-related issues associated with architectural metal roofs, the use of a three-dimensional drainage and ventilation mat as a solution to these issues, and best practices for incorporating a mat in metal and cedar roof assemblies.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course examines the material composition, reinforcement types, and testing standards associated with styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified bitumen membranes. It explains how fiberglass, polyester, and combination reinforcements affect membrane strength, flexibility, and dimensional stability. The standards that establish testing methods for tensile strength, elongation, and long-term performance are covered in detail. The course also outlines how material selection and installation practices influence roof durability, moisture resistance, and occupant safety.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Firestopping is the process of sealing openings around penetrants or in joints or gaps between fire-rated assemblies to restore hourly fire resistance ratings. It is a critical part of fire containment and a balanced fire and life safety plan. This course outlines resources and code requirements that architects and designers should be aware of while preparing specifications for firestop systems in their projects. The course also reviews common mistakes to avoid.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Concrete products such as precast pieces, pavers, and terrazzo have long provided builders with a flexible range of options for their projects. Beyond their versatility, these concrete products are highly sustainable, thanks to their ability to be recycled, low carbon footprint, and long life span.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    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.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Architectural finishes mimic the aesthetics and textures of natural materials without the cost, labor, weight, and maintenance challenges of finishes such as wood, stone, leather, and metals. This course discusses their performance characteristics, selection considerations, and proper installation techniques for interior and exterior commercial applications, including fire-rated assemblies and LEED®-certified projects.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Wind load can significantly impact buildings, affecting their structural integrity and safety. Perimeter roof edge systems are a primary safeguard during strong wind events. This course provides an overview of the types, features, and benefits of perimeter roof edge systems, system selection considerations, the impact of wind uplift on roofs, and the building codes and testing standards applicable to perimeter roof edge systems.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In the post-COVID work environment, businesses and designers are attempting to leverage daylight to the benefit of employees, students, patients, and caregivers alike. Automated shading enhances all manner of built environments by controlling and managing natural light to benefit mental health, productivity, and the bottom line. This course explores how using Power over Ethernet (PoE) based automated shading solutions supports smart buildings and enhances the well-being of occupants, regardless of building type or use. Also addressed is how automated shading can contribute toward the credit requirements of the LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL Building Standard™ v2.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    The design of behavioral healthcare facilities should address the therapeutic and safety needs of patients and staff while meeting the applicable codes and regulations. Reviewed in this course are ligature-resistant products developed for patient rooms and bathrooms that strike the balance between providing the safest design solutions and creating a noninstitutional environment.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Buildings need protection from cyber as well as physical threats. Building shielding offers several architectural solutions that contribute to the security of both building occupants and wireless systems. These solutions also help reduce unwanted solar heat and glare while providing protection from the elements and people seeking to cause harm. This course presents the security and performance benefits of shielding technology that can improve wireless performance, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort, satisfaction, and safety

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Modern security bollards are highly engineered and tested devices that can withstand deliberate ramming by a 15,000 lb vehicle. Bollards are more than decorative boundary markers; they are an essential tool to protect lives and property. This course explains bollard crash testing standards, reviews the pros and cons of available bollard materials, and discusses steel bollard designs for low- and high-impact applications.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Palm is a plentiful but underused resource with many possibilities to enhance architectural design. This course describes the growth, harvesting, and rendering of palm, how it is manufactured into flooring, plywood, and paneling products, and what to consider when specifying and installing. A detailed look at the products available as well as project examples demonstrates how palm products may apply to several credits and features in the LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Fire doors have one mission: to compartmentalize a building to contain a fire. Choosing the right one for your application requires understanding the various types of doors and how they function. This course provides an overview of rolling steel fire doors, covering their components, design, mounting methods, and considerations for specification and installation.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In light of the recent pandemic and the increasing frequency of wildfires, there is growing awareness around the impact of air quality, particularly in indoor environments. Building systems that manage air circulation and ventilation play a crucial role in supporting occupant health and well-being and can help meet indoor air quality credit requirements in the LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction, Interior Design and Construction, and Operations and Maintenance rating systems and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2. This course provides an overview of indoor air quality (IAQ) and offers strategies for improving it through responsive design and technology.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Green or vegetative roofs have long been considered excellent for mitigating stormwater runoff and the heat island effect and reducing the energy load of building HVAC systems. However, their installations have also resulted in many additional benefits, such as increased tenant retention, improved human experience, and longer lifespan of the roof’s waterproofing membrane. This course provides an introduction to green roofs and describes the different types and components, including waterproofing membranes, drainage, and vegetation-free zones. It also examines how green roofs may help meet credit requirements in the LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction and SITES® v2 rating systems.

  • ( ~ 30 minutes ) 

    As synthetic turf systems evolve as functional and aesthetic landscape solutions, conversations about sustainability, particularly environmental impacts, are essential. This course addresses the sustainability of synthetic turf from the triple-bottom-line perspective: profit, people, and planet. Also discussed is how synthetic turf can contribute to achieving certification in LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction, Sustainable SITES Initiative® v2, and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course explains the NFPA 285 test method, its origin, its procedures, when it is required, and design considerations necessary for compliance. Criteria in ASHRAE 90.1 for continuous insulation and air/water-resistive barriers are reviewed and identified as contributors to the rise of NFPA 285 requirements. The course also addresses code compliance in light of recent material changes, code changes, and additional testing.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Designing with green roofs affords design professionals opportunities to plan projects with exciting new elements, added value, and significant, tangible benefits, thereby enhancing the built environment with newly-created landscapes. This course examines green roof systems, including the types, benefits, components, and related standards. As well, it provides a discussion on how green roofs mitigate urban heat island effect and reduce stormwater runoff.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course examines bamboo as a sustainable construction material by focusing on its properties, environmental advantages, and innovative applications. Participants will explore responsible sourcing, manufacturing practices, and key certifications. The course also covers advanced products such as thermally modified and high-density bamboo. Professionals will gain the knowledge required to integrate bamboo into projects that align with performance and sustainability standards.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Architectural insulated metal panels (IMPs) are an increasingly popular choice for building developers and architects, presenting a compelling solution that combines functionality, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. This course reviews the architectural IMP, its applications and benefits, and comparisons to other materials. It explores current trends and developments that are paving the way for increased aesthetic possibilities and building envelope performance.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    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.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    A well-designed queuing system not only offers structure, efficiency, safety, and accessibility but also can enhance the aesthetics and visual appeal of an environment. This course presents an overview of the important factors that need to be considered when designing and specifying public queuing and pedestrian flow systems to facilitate a positive and orderly waiting experience.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    An expansion joint is a structural gap designed to accommodate the movement of a building in a controlled manner, preventing damage to the building’s internal and external finishes. Expansion joints run throughout a building in walls, ceilings, and floors. Expansion joint covers provide a covered transition across an expansion opening and remain unaffected by the relative movement of the two surfaces either side of the joint. This course explains how to determine joint movement requirements and how to size a joint. It also discusses the performance of different expansion joint cover systems and the applicable fire protection and building codes.

Displaying 1 - 25 of 646 results.

FIRST [1-25] [26-50] [51-75] [76-100] [101-125] NEXT LAST