Today’s building professionals seeking better moisture management and energy efficiency from the exteriors of their projects are turning to rainscreens as a solution to both. Wood-plastic composite (WPC) provides a durable and long-lasting material suitable for use in rainscreen systems, decks, railings, and more. Reviewed in this course are the manufacturing process, performance and green benefits, and installation of WPC cladding that is fully capped with a polymeric plastic “shield,” providing long-term resistance to moisture, staining, and fading.

Concrete grid pavement is widely used across North America for various applications including “green” pathways, parking lots, and basic erosion control. This presentation reviews  the various applications for concrete grid pavements and provides important design considerations, product specifications and construction recommendations. Environmental benefits such as reduced runoff and heat island mitigation are also highlighted. The program will conclude with several case studies.

Review the physics of building envelopes, including hygrothermal loads, control layers, climate zones and cladding functions. The importance of control layer continuity at wall, roof and slab connections is studied. We look at how IMPs perform the same functions as multi-component wall systems through the use of panels joints, sealants and an insulating core. Emphasis is placed on the concept of the Perfect/Universal Wall, and how utilizing the proper ordering of wall components can greatly simplify wall design in all climate zones. Energy codes are also touched on, including their impact on the use of Perfect/Universal Wall designs. This course reduces a relatively complex subject to a level that teaches practical concepts for the building designer.

Thermally fused laminate (TFL), also known as melamine panels, has become the leader in durable realism in kitchens, closets, home offices, and organized storage, delivering great value, quality, and safety without sacrificing design. Presented here is the evolution and manufacture of TFL and its properties and performance attributes, the link between texture and perception and the role texture plays in the visual impact of a TFL panel, and finally, residential living trends that are forcing designers and manufacturers to innovate.

Concrete Masonry is an effective solution for the ever-changing design environment. Masonry buildings offer a wealth of health and safety benefits to the occupants, including mitigating moisture (which can lead to mold growth and degraded air quality), resiliency and the overall energy performance of the built environment. Moreover, for multi-family and light commercial, masonry stands the test of time and offers the Architect an array of aesthetic possibilities as they work to create an experience for the end user and exceed their client’s expectations.

This course explores the climate positive benefits of materials already in use in most commercial and residential interiors. Decorative composite wood panels (TFL) begin in FSC certified forests by utilizing over 99% harvested wood fiber; are manufactured in extremely efficient facilities; and replace rare and fragile natural materials in everyday and high-use applications. The materials themselves have been assessed via an LCIA to have a negative carbon footprint (i.e., are naturally "climate positive"). Producers' adherence to FSC guidelines, and the material's ability to replace less sustainable, more fragile alternatives, only add to their overall contribution to climate and human health.

This course focuses on design considerations when using insulated metal roof panels. Panel characteristics, paint finishes and roof geometry options are reviewed. Support structure requirements (ex: purlins, joists, decking) including steel alignment/tolerances, panel spans and roof diaphragm considerations are studied. Functional aspects including environmental control layers (air, vapor, water and thermal) are examined. A full color animated video provides guidance on the step by step process of how IMP roofs are installed. Code compliance including air/water, thermal, fire safety and wind uplift is addressed. The program concludes with product and installation warranties, including paint, corrosion and weather tightness.

Today’s students face a quickly changing, technology-saturated world, and schools have a daunting challenge to prepare them for it. While the three Rs were considered a good education 50 years ago, 21st century students must become adept at working together, innovating, analyzing, and adapting to rapid developments. This course explores how a student-centered, kinetic classroom is an ideal setting to hone these skills and presents specific furniture and storage solutions that support the active, flexible learning environment crucial for today’s students.

This course will concentrate on the Masonry QA/QC programming established in MSJC 402/602 and the importance of Pre-Bid meetings, correct scope of work and Mock Up Panels. The sole intent of the course is to ensure the owner, designer and contractor have their expectations met on the installation of masonry on their project without sacrificing the health and safety of a project from construction through occupancy. So many potential problem areas can be addressed prior to installation that can be alleviated during precon activities.

The fireplace has always been a focal point in any home, providing warmth and a place for friends and family to gather. Today’s wood-burning fireplaces, inserts, and stoves have become increasingly efficient and clean burning. This course examines using wood as a fuel source and discusses the many characteristics that can affect heat production, efficiency, and burn time. New burning technologies that meet EPA certification requirements for released particulate matter are summarized, as are design and installation specifications.

Roof top paver systems have become an integral part of commercial roofing that not only increases usable square footage of the structure but also improves the energy efficiency and increases the life expectancy of the overall roof system. Additionally, roof top paver systems allow great access to the outdoors helping improve occupant comfort levels and encourage social interaction. Changes to codes and standards along with recent storm events have brought wind uplift to the forefront as a vital component to roof top paver systems. As a result, many factors must be considered when designing and installing roof top paver systems. The industry has developed various methods for addressing wind uplift, many of which are covered in this course.

Metal Construction Association Technical Director Bob Zabcik, PE LEED AP, will be part of a panel with architects Rick Schneider, FAIA, and Hafsa Burt. Together, the three will discuss how metal building products fit into sustainable construction practices. Expect an engaging mix of technical insight and a discussion of considerations for metal building component selection. Panelists will show relevant recently executed projects, too.

Plongez dans l'intersection de l'excellence en design et de la responsabilité environnementale avec notre cours complet sur les panneaux décoratifs TFL. Explorez la valeur intrinsèque de la durabilité dans le monde du design, démêlez les complexités du cycle du carbone et découvrez comment les forêts et le bois jouent des rôles clés dans la séquestration du carbone. Découvrez les applications polyvalentes et les attributs climatiquement positifs des panneaux TFL, vous permettant de prendre des décisions éclairées et écologiques dans vos projets de design. Rejoignez-nous pour élever votre compréhension du design exceptionnel, de la durabilité et contribuer à un avenir plus vert et résilient.

This course will review the different specification types used in the CSI Specification process and how each ties into and support the other. The importance of proper specification processing for all phases of Masonry Construction from manufacturing through installation and cleaning.

Understand the different types of commercial sectional doors and the applications where they fit best.

Considering door hardware early in the design process enhances the aesthetics and functionality of a space. Invisible hinges balance durability, security, and ease of use without detracting from the design. This course examines standard invisible hinges as well as those for fire-rated and closer doors, and offers guidance on specification and installation. Case studies demonstrate the array of invisible hinge applications, and innovative door hardware solutions for powered entry and ADA compliance are presented.

Permeable pavers are increasingly used as a stormwater management solution in parking lots, driveways and roadways across North America. As a Green Infrastructure infiltration solution, permeable pavers reduce stormwater runoff, provide water quality benefits, and mitigate street flooding. This presentation highlights the findings of recent studies, including the University of Toronto’s De-icing Operations for Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavements, the U.S. Geological Survey’s Subsurface Temperature Properties for Three Types of Permeable Pavements in Cold Weather Climates and Implications for Deicer Reduction, and the University of Minnesota’s findings related to permeable pavement and road salt reduction. These studies collectively identify and quantify benefits permeable pavers offer to combat water and aquatic life damage due to deicing salts. Join us for an overview of these new studies and learn how developers and government agencies can take advantage of the environmental benefits of permeable pavers.

Obesity rates in the U.S. have reached epic numbers and correlate to significant health and economic impacts. Outdoor obstacle courses in public green spaces can provide appealing, effective, and free training equipment to the community to help increase physical activity. Review the theories of obstacle course training and guidelines for their design and installation.

Architects understand how a wall is designed. But, designing a wall and putting it in place are two different skill sets. This course focuses on the methods used and challenges that occur on a jobsite during the construction of a building. Participants will learn how concrete products are made and put in place in various applications: CMU Wall Construction, Thin Veneer over CMU, Site Utilization. Hands on participation installing the various products will be a vital part of the course.

Accommodating an aging population in multistory homes means finding ways to simplify access to all levels. As residential elevators continue to decrease in cost, they are being considered as the most effective solution to offer safety, comfort, and convenience to the homeowner. This course reviews all considerations needed for the installation of a residential elevator, including preplanning, locating, power and structural requirements, and code considerations.

Direct vent fireplaces are safe and efficient supplemental heat sources in today’s homes. This course reviews the innovative design options for gas fireplaces, including media options, cool wall technology, and safety barriers. Direct and power vent heat delivery systems are discussed, and the impact of standing versus electric pilot lights on energy efficiency is examined.

Water quality is a priority in most watersheds and treatment trains have become an effective strategy to target multiple pollutants of concern to reach effluent water quality objectives. This presentation will discuss the water quality benefits of using permeable pavers and discuss the efficacy of permeable paver systems for these pollutants of concern: Total Suspended Solids; Nutrients; Hydrocarbons; and Heavy Metals and provide research references to validate the removal efficiencies. Permeable pavers can also be used in series with other water quality controls, typically called a treatment train, to provide high levels of pollutant removal. This presentation will discuss using permeable pavers with bioretention, green roofs, vegetated filter strips, and manufactured water quality devices. Join us for an overview of the water quality benefits of permeable pavers and learn how to leverage the power of a treatment train to meet or exceed regulatory water quality requirements.

Healthy hydration is central to the health of patients and to hospitals. There are three hydration issues facing hospitals. First, nurses are not properly hydrated. This affects their mental acuity which can negatively affect job performance including patient safety. The course explores how to make water more accessible in ways that increase mental health and gives respite to nurses. Second, hospitals are embracing community health initiatives. This course looks at how supplying lead-free water at hospitals supports healthy communities. And, third hospitals are stepping up their commitment to green and sustainable operations. This course dives into how hospitals can reduce plastic usage through filtered water delivery units.

Ensuring compliance with increasingly stringent energy codes is a leading architectural challenge. This course explores the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with a focus on the building envelope and how to achieve – and exceed – energy performance requirements when building with masonry.

In this presentation we will examine the current state of behavioral health in America, an overview of behavioral health facility types, therapy methods, patient safety considerations, and guidelines for facility design. This course will showcase principles to guide design including how to create safe social spaces, leverage biophilic design principles, phenomenology and tap into color theory, textures, and lighting to enhance healing. Additionally, this course features real life examples of implementing these principles to assist in the healing process, preserve patient dignity, and balance the safety of patients and staff.