Waterproof roof and balcony membrane systems are designed to prevent building envelope failure and keep areas below the deck surface dry. Presented here are pedestrian (walkable) roof and balcony polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane systems, with discussions on their advantages and membrane construction, as well as waterproofing concepts and design considerations for integration into the building envelope.

Moisture infiltration through a building envelope can cause widespread damage to building elements and construction materials. In some cases, it can threaten or destroy a building’s structural integrity. The components of today’s waterproofing systems for floors and walls above- and below-grade, or plaza decks are designed to work together to provide tight, durable, and complete protection not just against water, but all other environmental contaminants. This course discusses the fundamentals of waterproofing design, the types of materials used, and the considerations for selecting a waterproofing system to meet the requirements of a building project.

Quartz surfacing is a man-made material, consisting of over 90% natural quartz crystal. In this course you will discover the other components behind the beauty, durability and flexibility of this surfacing material. You will see the composition, production and quality assurance processes that go into making the material and the resultant attributes, capabilities, and the installation basics of quartz surfacing materials.

Building science experts have acknowledged the need for both drainage and ventilation in exterior wall systems in order to eliminate moisture issues and extend the life of buildings. This presentation reviews the concepts of rainscreen technology and the solutions for rainscreen compliance with a focus on engineered rainscreen drainage and ventilation mats used in direct applied and ventilated wall designs.

The inherent properties of concrete masonry, including strength, durability, and fire safety, have been well documented, though a perception of high cost persists. However, due to significant changes to codes and standards that have increased the flexibility of concrete masonry systems, these systems offer cost-effective solutions. This course reviews changes to ASTM C90 and the masonry design standard and includes a discussion on the benefits and opportunities these new requirements bring.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Basic

Cooktops are manufactured and classified by construction type and method of heat energy transfer. This course reviews the operation, control, performance, and efficiency of induction cooktops in comparison to their gas and electric counterparts, and shows how induction cooktops can be incorporated into any kitchen design in residential and specialty-commercial applications such as marine, mobile, military, academic, institutional, and hospitality.

In a good kitchen design, the kitchen faucet plays a key role in terms of both function and style, therefore, choosing the right solution is a critical consideration. This course provides an overview of the functional and style options of kitchen faucets, as well as a discussion of the factors that relate to the quality of a kitchen faucet, including cartridge type, construction and finish.

Thin brick veneer wall systems offer a lightweight design option to use in many areas, both where traditional bricks are used as well as where their use is limited, such as interior accent walls or inset panels. This course outlines the differences between wall systems using anchored and adhered masonry veneer, with a focus on the design, materials, and installation methods of adhered brick veneer wall systems. Use of adhered veneer in interior applications is also discussed.

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

Water leaks and damage are some of the biggest problems encountered with masonry construction and cavity walls. The proper choice and installation of flexible through-wall flashing, however, can ensure that moisture is directed out of the wall cavity and the risk of potential damage is minimized.

Towel warmers/heated towel racks not only warm and dry damp towels but add a sense of comfort and luxury. This course explores towel warmers/heated towel racks and includes discussions on: the functions, benefits, and applications of towel warmers/heated towel racks; centrally heated, electric, and hydronic heating systems; materials and finishes; installation and care; and, design and accessory options.

When selecting an underlayment, considerations should include not only durability, sustainability, and comfort underfoot but also any potential subfloor moisture issues. In this course, we review selection criteria for a project-specific underlayment and take a deeper look at subfloor moisture assessment, testing, and solutions.

Prerequisites: No

Course Level: Introductory

Pigments serve many functions in paint other than supplying the color. Characteristics such as durability, hide, gloss, lightfastness, and paint film thickness are influenced by the choice of pigment. This course will discuss the ways your choice of color can significantly change the appearance and performance of architectural paint.

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

Railing systems perform various functions, meeting safety requirements and serving as a key component of a building’s aesthetic. This course includes a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of aluminum and structural vinyl railing systems, how they are made, and how they are used in the building industry, including a detailed summary of how they meet various code requirements.

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

Recently, custom showers have grown in popularity, offering homeowners an escape from the stresses of the outside world with new options providing the same sense of relaxation that was previously reserved for the bathtub. This course covers the trends in shower design, the benefits of hydrotherapy, and the components and technologies that are available to create a spa-like shower experience for today’s homeowners.

There are numerous model codes written by both the ICC and NFPA relating to toilet room privacy partitions. This course provides up-to-date information relative to selecting and specifying code-compliant toilet partitions for commercial restrooms, including material type, hardware, and mounting configurations. Fire and accessibility codes are discussed, as well as guidelines for writing toilet compartment specifications.

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

Comfortable indoor environments with enhanced air quality improve the health and well-being of the building’s occupants. The course examines fabric air dispersion systems, beginning with a comparison to traditional metal duct systems. It explores how the fabric options and suspension systems have evolved over time and moves on to discuss essential design considerations, including: shape, layout options, system dimensions, suspension systems, fittings, air dispersion design, fabric options, orifices/vents, and air pressure design.

An improperly ventilated house is susceptible to a range of problems, from mold growth and structural damage to increased energy costs. Achieving proper ventilation means understanding the flow of air into and out of the building envelope. This course discusses principles of proper ventilation in houses with steep-slope roofing—from the science behind moisture and airflow to the products used to assist ventilation through a structure.

Traditionally used for high-performance architectural applications, water-based PVDF coatings can now be applied to cellular PVC cladding materials, delivering high performance in a new application. This course presents the benefits of cellular PVC as a cladding material and focuses on water-based PVDF coatings, how they work, and how their performance characteristics contribute to their durability.

Synthetic (artificial) grass, specifically designed for use with dogs, is a cost-effective solution that offers a clean, safe, and aesthetically pleasing environment for dogs. Presented here are the health, safety, performance, and cost benefits of installing synthetic grass specifically designed for dogs; its suitable applications; design considerations; installation factors; and maintenance guidelines.

Aperçu des types de peintures, de finis, de préparations de surface et d’apprêts.

Whether in a home or hotel, the bathroom serves as both grooming station and refuge. The well-designed styling space saves us time and effort, as well as making the time we spend more enjoyable. This course discusses what constitutes the ideal styling space experience and recent technological innovations that help achieve it.

Advances in technology are no longer confined to communications or transportation; they have spilled over into our homes, in appliances, fixtures, and water delivery. Today's water delivery innovations improve functionality, and are changing the way people interact with their faucets. This course addresses the types of water delivery solutions in the kitchen and bathroom, and outlines three design considerations for selecting a water delivery option.

Ventilation grilles influence HVAC system performance, but can pose aesthetic challenges for designers. Custom grilles made with modern fabrication techniques employ a variety of materials and finishes, to create solutions that enhance and fully integrate with architectural interiors. This course will discuss the basic mechanics of effective air distribution in buildings, performance characteristics of grilles, grille types, and custom design options.

A comprehensive lighting plan is critical to the success of any residential design project. Proper lighting is effective and efficient and contributes to the comfort and functionality of the home. This course explores lighting concepts, sources, and controls. It discusses using layers of light to achieve design goals, and how to incorporate energy efficiency into lighting designs.