This course takes a close look at the Building Disclosure and Optimization credits, the changes in thinking from LEED 2009, and strategies and tools used to determine material health.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

 In order to download this course, a USD $50.00 fee must be paid.

The facade is one of the most significant contributors to the energy consumption and comfort parameters of any building. This course explores high-performance building envelopes and the use of advanced insulated metal panel systems featuring integrated daylighting and ventilation components that combine to provide weathertightness and maximum thermal performance.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

Fireplaces have long been a centerpiece in the home. This course presents an introduction to the types of gas fireplaces and vents, and covers the applicable code and standards for direct-vent, factory-built gas fireplaces. Also included are discussions on the protective safety barrier requirements, test methods for fireplace efficiency, and typical steps for installing direct-vent gas fireplaces and barriers.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

Metal composite panels deliver a clean and elegant aesthetic while acting as a rainscreen or barrier wall. These panels can be produced in two different manners, each affecting performance and applicability. This course reviews metal composite panels, their methods of manufacture, performance capabilities, and methods of installation.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

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.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

Due to their durability, low operational cost, and sustainability, metal roofs are gaining popularity in both commercial and residential markets. Owner expectations for this product family have increased as well, and now include heightened aesthetics and long-term performance. While metal roofing systems are certainly up to these challenges, when they fail, the results are costly. Consequently, it is imperative designers have full knowledge of metal roof design and detailing. This course covers the top ten problems metal roof designers face and describes how these problems can be prevented through proper design.

Designing to accommodate thermal movement is just one of the many critical details for the long-term success of a metal roof installation. This course covers the design and specification considerations and architectural details that impact project requirements, as well as the components and the energy-efficient features of metal roofing assemblies.

Prerequisites:No

Course Level:Introductory

The goal of any roofing project should be long-term performance of the roof system. This means thoughtful, long-term consideration of any details incorporated into it. This course discusses details and conditions to consider when installing trim, seams, and accessories into a metal roofing system to ensure long-lasting performance. Examples of incorrect and correct installations and their effects on the performance of the roof are shown.

Durability and strength are two benefits that are fueling the growing popularity of metal roofing systems. This course examines the performance characteristics of metal roofing materials and the technological advancements that increase corrosion resistance and coating durability. The advantages of factory-formed panels and components and the environmental benefits of metal roofs are also presented.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

Millennials, sometimes known as Gen Y, account for nearly 75 million people in the U.S., ranging from 18 to 34 years of age. They are creative, technologically savvy, and can be described as a “green” generation, concerned about the environment and sustainability. The purpose of this course is to better understand the Millennial demographic and their ever-increasing impact on the growing multifamily market.

A sound building envelope should be sustainable and provide fire resistance, good thermal performance, and protection from the elements. Mineral wool, fire rated insulated metal panels (IMPs) can improve building performance and contribute to a sustainable design strategy. Included in this course are discussions on mineral wool IMP characteristics and design options, performance advantages, and installation considerations. The course details how fire resistance is specified in the International Building Code and provides examples of fire wall and fire partition construction assemblies.

Insulation can help increase overall energy efficiency, minimize the spread of fire, manage risks associated with moisture and mold, and improve occupant comfort. Choosing the right insulation and putting it in the right location is becoming one of the most important decisions in design, construction, and retrofit. Reviewed in this course are the features, benefits, and design and installation considerations related to mineral wool continuous insulation.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

Unfortunately gun violence is a reality and design strategies must be employed to ensure a suitable level of protection. This course addresses bullet-resistant fiberglass composite panels and the need for architectural armoring. The course discusses ballistic material testing and standards, the types of ballistic materials available, and fiberglass composite panel applications and installation considerations.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

Today's gas fireplaces make a stylish, modern design statement while providing a safe and efficient option for supplemental heat. This course explores the benefits of direct vent, electronic ignition gas fireplaces over other fuel and venting options, with a focus on the innovative features and design possibilities offered by frameless fireplaces suitable for any residential or commercial space. The benefits of a frameless fireplace design, cool wall technology, a heat control system, and integration of the modern fireplace into a home automation system are discussed, and occupant safety features such as double glass heat safety barriers are explained.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

Provides an overview of snow retention systems, including components of both pad and bar types, features, installation, and layout.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

Kitchens have evolved, and so has the role of refrigeration in the home, and there are a variety of factors that are contributing to this change. This course examines the social, economic, and demographic trends that are stimulating the reimagining of the kitchen space. The latest trends in kitchen design are discussed, as is the role of modular refrigeration—a key design element in the creation of functional spaces that reflect the changing domestic landscape.

In this course, you will learn about strategies for supplying lab vacuum in STEM facilities. Relative strengths and weaknesses are considered. Emphasis is placed on the specification, design, and installation of local vacuum networks. Brief case studies are used to demonstrate the suitability of local vacuum networks for a wide range of project types—renovation and new construction; teaching labs and research labs; and single labs to entire lab buildings.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

Le choix d'un revêtement isolant est l'un des facteurs les plus déterminants au prolongement du cycle de vie d'un bâtiment. En présentant des avantages tels que l'efficacité énergétique et le respect du code, l'isolant en mousse de polyuréthane giclée est le choix idéal pour de nombreuses applications intérieures et extérieures. Ce cours porte sur les isolants en mousse de polyuréthane giclée à faible densité et de densité moyenne, leurs caractéristiques, les critères de conception, ainsi que l'analyse du cycle de vie pour les applications commerciales.

This course outlines the attributes, functions, benefits, limits, and acoustic qualities of composite deck slabs. It reviews the three primary types of composite systems that represent the full range of long-span composite floor systems and examines the criteria for their selection, design, and engineering. In addition, it provides a comprehensive range of industry standards and resources that a designer could consult to ensure, at a minimum, compliance with all building regulations and industry standards.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

The demand for high-performance, durable, energy-efficient buildings has led to building envelope designs that incorporate greater amounts of combustible material in cladding, insulation, and weather-resistive barriers. Understanding how to meet both sustainability challenges and code requirements can be a complex and confusing process. Beginning with the history of NFPA 285, this course presents an overview of the test method and fire code in relation to various building envelope materials, with particular attention given to metal composite materials ( MCMs).

NFPA 285 is a fire test for wall assemblies in noncombustible buildings that are wrapped in combustible materials. This course explains the NFPA 285 test method, its origin, its procedures, when it is required by the International Building Code, its relevance to ASHRAE 90.1 criteria for continuous insulation and air/water resistive barriers, and design considerations necessary for test compliance. Key combustible wall assembly layers such as insulation, air/water resistive barriers, and exterior cladding options are also discussed.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

One of the most important concepts behind biophilia is the “urge to affiliate with other forms of life” (E.O. Wilson). Humans are connected to nature, inspired by nature, and desire to be harmonized with nature. This course discusses the main principles of biophilic design and explains how a connection with nature benefits human well-being, increases classroom performance, and reduces stress. Multiple case studies demonstrating the positive benefits of daylight and views on building occupants are discussed, and applications of biophilic design are examined.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

Acrylic solid surface is an attractive design solution, delivering enhanced aesthetics combined with superior properties. This course provides an overview of the characteristics of 100% Acrylic Solid Surface compared to other surface materials, and the driving factors that contribute to its growing role in sustainable design strategies. Also discussed are the manufacturing, fabricating, and thermoformable processes of 100% Acrylic Solid Surface and the related green standards and certification programs.

 This course is part of one or more "Course Collections". Click here to view the details...

In recent years, demand has increased for better noise control in multifamily construction, driven mainly by consumer demands and stricter enforcement of existing codes. Residential noise control is a key component of design as it affects occupant privacy and well-being. This course reviews the dynamics of sound, how sound is transmitted through buildings, and the architectural techniques used to control airborne, structureborne, and flanking noise transmission in multifamily buildings.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

Within building spaces, noise can be reduced by using materials or assemblies that mitigate the transmission or isolate the sound. 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, techniques, and products to prevent sound transmission.