Custom architectural glass solutions are tools designers can use to execute their design vision. Over the years, technology has evolved and provided additional options that are cost-effective and can be produced in record times. Digital printing is one of those solutions; this course looks at digital printing technology, the variety of options available, and how they can be applied to achieve a desired result.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

Insulation is one of the most critical factors in maintaining the life of a building. With benefits such as energy efficiency and code compliance, polyurethane spray foam insulation is the ideal choice for many interior and exterior applications. This course examines both low- and medium-density polyurethane spray foam insulation, its characteristics, design considerations, and life cycle analysis for commercial applications.

Firehouse doors are operated frequently, and it is critical that the doors operate as intended, every time they are used. This course examines commercial door operators and includes discussions on types of commercial doors and operators, safety sensors, firehouse accessory options, and UL 325 compliance as it relates to firehouse door operation.

Knowing how color is commonly used in commercial design projects is a helpful approach to selecting color for a new or renovation building project. Considering how much time we spend in commercial spaces such as restaurants, healthcare facilities, workplace environments, schools, and hospitality accommodations, it makes sense to create spaces that are appealing as well as functional. This course examines paint in terms of product performance, discusses how humans instinctively react to color, and provides some guidelines for selecting paint colors for commercial design projects.

Structural laminated decking allows the beauty of the wood structure to be exposed, creating a unique architectural experience for its occupants. Aesthetics, strength, and durability are combined in one engineered product. Structural laminated wood decking is an environmentally sustainable and cost-effective alternative to solid timber and other roof systems. This course discusses the characteristics of laminated wood decking and reviews recommended design, specification, and installation practices.

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

The surface coating is the first line of defense in prepainted metal, and one of the most important elements to consider as part of a metal purchase. Selecting the right coating, finish, and paint system can affect product lifespan, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. This course discusses the composition of prepainted metal, its application, and performance, and examines the building and environmental factors that may influence the type of paint system specified.

Prerequisites: None

Course Level: Introductory

Given that humans instinctively react to color, it is no wonder that color plays an integral part of the overall design aesthetic. Presented here is an overview of color theory, including the color wheel and color properties and harmonies. The course discusses how lighting influences color and provides some guidelines for selecting the appropriate paint colors for a project.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

The variety of paint products offered can be overwhelming. And with each variety of paint offering different properties that affect the outcome of a project, understanding what is in a can of paint is key to success. Reviewed in this course are the types of architectural paint, the components of paint, and proper surface preparation, as well as the causes of and solutions to common paint problems ranging from simple to complex.

High-performance coating systems are designed to protect surfaces in many different service environments: from mild conditions—such as those in a commercial kitchen—to severe conditions, which include exposure to coastal salt air, intense weathering, and continual high humidity and moisture levels. A coating’s ability to mitigate corrosion, abrasion, deterioration from chemical exposure, and weathering is critical in today’s building climate. This course reviews single- and two-component coating systems, describes corrosion basics, and examines selection criteria for high-performance coating systems in various applications.

The 19th and 20th centuries brought numerous opportunities to revive classic architectural styles and—in the American West—the architecture and colors of the California missions, adobes, and Monterey Colonial homes provided unique and beautiful examples to support the new Mission Revival, Spanish Colonial Revival, Monterey Revival, Mediterranean Revival, and Pueblo Revival styles. This course explores local design and the architecture and color of historic buildings in the Southwest to show how it’s possible to establish color schemes representative of the American Western culture.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

All vapor retarders (VRs) are air barriers (ABs), but not all ABs are VRs. Wait, what? How can that be? This presentation provides the practical side to the AB/VR discussion and identifies common VRs and ABs, how they're installed, and why AB/VR approaches vary according to the type of construction and building use.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

In the wake of the green movement, combined with rising energy costs, building sustainability has become an important topic. This course examines how foil-faced polyisocyanurate (polyiso) continuous insulation can function as a multiple control layer, providing a building with an air and water-resistive barrier and a thermal control layer. Additionally, this course reviews building codes and standards for meeting the continuous insulation requirements in steel stud building envelope designs, the benefits of using polyiso insulation in wall assemblies, and how polyiso insulation meets NFPA 285 requirements.

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

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.

Siding adds to the attractiveness of a residence while protecting the home from damage by the elements. Options for siding and trim encompass a variety of materials, including engineered wood, natural wood, fiber cement, and vinyl. This course reviews the features, performance characteristics, styles, and installation considerations of engineered wood siding and trim products.

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

Segmental retaining walls (SRWs) can strengthen steep slopes, hold back soil in grade changes, create useable land, and enhance the aesthetics of any landscape. This course looks at the site and application factors that determine whether a segmental retaining wall must be engineered and soil reinforced, and provides technical information about the components and construction of an SRW.

Permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) has the ability to create solid, strong surfaces for pedestrians and a range of vehicular uses, and can help maintain a site’s existing natural hydrologic function and reduce the overall impact of development. This course discusses the components of a PICP system and how they work together to manage stormwater in a variety of applications. Also addressed are hydrological and structural factors to consider when designing with PICP, and how PICP contributes to sustainable building goals and projects.

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

Over the past few decades, exterior building spaces and roofs have significantly transformed from utilitarian ballasted roof systems to roof systems with highly programmed, environmentally conscious, people-friendly amenities that promote healthier lifestyles. A variety of products and materials can be utilized in the design and construction of roof gardens and decks. This course will review the construction of basic types of roof systems, as well as the range of hardscaping products that are available to designers.

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

Risks of self harm and suicide are inherent in behavioral health facilities. The common areas for concern in psychiatric inpatient units are ligature attachment points that present a hanging risk. In this course we review the evolution of patient safety hardware with a focus on ligature-resistant hardware designed to prevent the opportunity for self harm.

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

Structural fire protection guards essential structural components from the devastating effects of fire. This course discusses some of the types of passive fire protection methods that are available. Examined in depth are the composition, manufacture, finishes, and design and installation considerations of prefabricated fireproof structural columns designed for exposed exterior and interior load-bearing applications.

The design of laser-cut steel, thermally broken windows and doors was fueled by the need to produce a steel window and door that would meet the ever increasingly stringent energy efficiency building codes of today and tomorrow, while not losing any of the “classic-timeless” aesthetics that steel windows and doors have become known for. This course examines the fabrication, thermal performance, and design and finish options of steel windows and doors.

Prerequisites: None

Course Level: Introductory

With the ever-increasing focus on the sustainable built environment, building owners, architects, engineers, and contractors are incorporating structural steel into their designs. Presented here is a comprehensive view of the cradle-to-cradle structural steel supply chain from a sustainability perspective. Also discussed are steel production and design, steel’s potential contribution to LEED v4 credits, thermal capacity, and the environmental and life cycle benefits of prefabricated fireproof steel columns.

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

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

Selecting energy-efficient fenestration products that promote comfort, daylighting and views, and natural ventilation while supporting environmental impact concerns can further discussions regarding resource efficiency, material manufacturing, waste reduction, and life-cycle impact. This course examines the attributes of thermally broken aluminum windows and doors and explains why they are energy-efficient, sustainable, fenestration products.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

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

Single-skin metal siding can be used for a wide range of projects, from commercial buildings to educational, healthcare, residential, agricultural, and even high-end architectural designs. These siding panels can also contribute to green designs and certification programs. This course explores the different types of single-skin metal siding, specification details, and performance and design considerations.

Comfortable indoor environments with enhanced air quality improve the health and well-being of the building’s occupants. The course compares fabric air dispersion systems to traditional metal duct systems. It explores the evolution of fabric air dispersion systems and discusses essential design considerations, including: shape, layout options, system dimensions, suspension systems, fittings, air dispersion design, fabric options, orifices/vents, and air pressure design, and how they impact energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality.