Sustainable Design Courses

Click here for information on the AEC Daily Sustainability Rating System.

Displaying 1 - 25 of 420 results.

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

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Doors installed in high-traffic conditions require special considerations and construction. This course explores the key concepts, best practices, and industry standards for selecting, specifying, installing, and maintaining durable and reliable heavy-usage doors. It details their material and hardware options, construction techniques, maintenance strategies, safety considerations, and required testing protocols. The course concludes with a sample installation.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Lighting controls allow homeowners to adjust lamps and light fixtures from anywhere in the home without special wiring or expensive master controllers. Lighting controls can be integrated into a home for single-room, multiroom, whole-house, or automated systems. This course discusses the role of lighting in design and occupant comfort and then outlines how lighting controls can benefit occupant behavior, health, and productivity and the appeal and performance of the home, especially regarding energy efficiency.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Building owners have come to rely on weatherable coatings to provide long-term protection to their buildings. With an increased focus on sustainability, performance, and durability, PVDF resin-based coatings can help architects and painting contractors exceed their clients’ design goals. This course covers the key components and functions of high-performance weatherable coatings and looks at how these coatings contribute to sustainable design.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Cleanliness and sanitation are important aspects of buildings and businesses, especially in restrooms. Users want environments where they don’t have to worry about picking up germs while owners desire solutions that are safe, attractive, and cost effective. Smart, connected fixtures can leverage sensor technology to optimize user experiences while also streamlining the management of building facilities, conserving water, and providing a hygienic, touchless experience for users. 

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This introductory course on spray polyurethane foam (SPF) covers component chemistry, different types of SPF, and the proper use of SPF in construction applications. In addition, the course addresses code compliance related to SPF for residential and commercial construction, as well as safe SPF installation practices. Participants will come away with a strong knowledge of how the proper use and application of spray foam can improve the indoor environment and the durability of the built environment.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Modular mechanical support systems are flexible and adaptable frameworks used in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) applications. They replace fabricated steel and streamline the installation process. This course presents the history of modularization in construction and the functions, features, benefits, and applications of several modular mechanical support systems, including structural steel framing, adjustable pipe supports, pipe racks, and skid systems.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The inherent properties of concrete masonry, including strength, durability, and fire safety, have been well documented, though a perception of high cost persists. Due to significant changes to codes and standards that increased the flexibility of concrete masonry structural design, this construction method may also offer cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative solutions. This course reviews changes to ASTM C90 and the masonry design standard and includes a discussion on the benefits and opportunities these requirements bring.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Light-manipulating glass products transport, redirect, refract, and reflect light to create architectural spaces that engage occupants with the unexpected interplay of light and shadow. This course explores these durable, functional products and their many options for customization. Also reviewed is how glass panels 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.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour, 30 minutes ) 

    Masonry is an ideal sustainable building construction material as it is extremely durable, recyclable, and reusable. It allows for extraordinary design versatility, so it can meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. This course looks at the design elements, components, and construction techniques that characterize sustainable masonry cavity wall building envelopes.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Protected membrane roof (PMR) assemblies have been widely adopted in low-slope commercial buildings since the late 1960s. Also known as inverted or upside-down roofs, PMR assemblies move the waterproofing membrane from the top of the roof assembly to the surface of the structural deck. This course explores how PMR assemblies provide several advantages over conventional roof assemblies, offering superior protection against water penetration and enhanced energy efficiency. The course also shows how PMR assemblies allow for the creation of green roofs or blue roof systems. With a proven record of reliability, PMR assemblies present a compelling solution for architects seeking innovative, sustainable, and efficient roofing options.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Dual-flush wall-mounted toilets help create modern, stylish bathrooms that strike a balance between sustainable water efficiency, flexible design, and space savings. This course compares this style with other traditional types of toilets, discusses how wall-mounted toilets benefit commercial and residential users, and explains how they satisfy the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other accessibility and building code requirements.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Made from one of the hardest and most abundant minerals in nature, engineered quartz is a beautiful, durable surface solution for a wide range of commercial and residential applications desiring the beauty of natural stone without its drawbacks. The raw materials of quartz surfacing are harvested from the Earth and formed into slabs via an innovative production process, resulting in a homogenous, nonporous material with superior performance and low maintenance requirements. Reviewed in this course are the features, fabrication guidelines, and design trends of quartz surfacing.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Advancements in composite decking technology are transforming the way outdoor spaces are designed and built, particularly in multifamily settings where effective water management is critical. This course introduces mineral-based composite decking systems and their role in eliminating the need for secondary membranes. Learners will explore how these all-in-one solutions streamline installation, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and help prevent common issues such as mold, decay, and water intrusion. The course also highlights how well-designed outdoor amenities can foster social connection, support resident well-being, and enhance the value of shared spaces.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    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.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    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.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour, 30 minutes ) 

    Air curtain units (ACUs) provide a controlled airstream across a door or opening, creating a seamless barrier between two distinct spaces while enabling smooth, uninterrupted traffic flow. Air curtains fulfill numerous purposes and provide building owners with significant energy savings. This course examines how air curtains work and how they reduce whole-building energy consumption and contribute to occupant wellness and safety. The role of air curtains in limiting the infiltration of insects, pathogens, and outside pollutants while maintaining thermal comfort and good indoor air quality is explained. ACU selection and installation considerations are also discussed.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    According to building professionals, the solution to achieving an energy-efficient building envelope is to focus more on the roof. Protected membrane roof (PMR) assemblies deliver thermal efficiency and can play a valuable role in a sustainable design strategy. Presented in this course is a review of the components, advantages, ballast options, and design and installation considerations of PMR assemblies.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Trees are essential for the health of the urban environment, mitigating the heat island effect, cleaning the air, reducing stormwater runoff, and improving residents’ health and well-being. But cities are often inhospitable to trees, where their growth may be stunted or their roots may damage surrounding infrastructure. This course explores ways to design successful projects incorporating green infrastructure by understanding the principles behind tree growth, proper type and amount of soil, water management, and the role of soil vault systems in helping urban trees thrive.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Redwood lumber and timbers from sustainably managed and harvested forests offer warmth, durability, and strength in indoor and outdoor projects. This course covers the performance characteristics, environmental benefits, and applications of Redwood, including several case studies that highlight the beauty and versatility of Redwood products. Details are presented on differentiating the grades of Redwood, specifying the right grade for the project type, and the specification resources that are available.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Redwood Timbers are a safe, strong, and sustainable option for exterior and interior building projects where natural wood is desired. This course provides an overview of the properties of Redwood Timbers including insulation properties, grades, dimensions, fasteners, finishing options, and strength. It concludes with numerous case studies exploring the use of Redwood Timbers for post and beam construction, decorative elements, deck posts, and outdoor living structures.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Rubber has been recycled for over a century and has been utilized in recycled rubber flooring (RRF) for more than 70 years, demonstrating its proven durability, resilience, and design flexibility. This course examines RRF as a sustainable material solution and its role in enhancing the performance of the built environment. Additionally, the course explains the rubber recycling and RRF manufacturing processes, along with the best practices for specification and installation. Also included is an overview of how RRF can contribute to credit requirements in the LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction (BD+C) and Interior Design and Construction (ID+C) rating systems and the WELL™ Building Standard v2.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Inclusive design is a win-win for customers and businesses. It shows the business supports the assumption that public spaces should be functional for all users no matter their age, health, or abilities. The commitment to inclusivity encompasses promoting and respecting everyone’s right to choose a washroom. This course explores the benefits of inclusive spaces and discusses the sustainable, hygienic, functional, and distinctive design and material options for inclusive public bathrooms.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    This recorded webinar is the third of five sessions presented during the Building Science Master Summit held by DuPont Performance Building Solutions. This course dives into the topic of below-grade thermal performance and how to appropriately design for the long term. It explores heat loss patterns; energy code requirements and how they differ by region and building type; insulating best practices and benefits; and considerations for material selection.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction to the use of entrance floor systems in commercial buildings in order to promote a safe and clean environment. The course explains the codes, regulations, and guidelines specifically related to entrance flooring systems for high-traffic entrances in healthcare, education, transportation, corporate, and other commercial settings.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER
  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Modern hydronic radiator systems are an energy-efficient, healthy, and hygienic solution for residential and commercial applications. This course discusses the principles of radiant heating and panel radiators, and how to size panel radiators for residential applications.

    Ask a Question
    SAVE FOR LATER

Displaying 1 - 25 of 420 results.

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