This course is designed to provide architects, designers, engineers, and specification writers a practical and useful foundation of knowledge to better understand the current cold-formed steel framing industry and how it supports the most recent standards for code compliance, structural/fire/sound requirements and sustainability.

This course reviews the definition of sustainability, and how Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Health Product Declarations (HPDs) are being used to address product transparency needs. We will review how IMPs provide all environmental control layers and how their use contributes to sustainable design. LCAs form the backbone of EPDs, and this course walks through the creation of EPDs as well as the environmental factors evaluated. HPDs are the latest tool used to study building product toxicity, and we will provide a complete review of how these important documents are prepared and used by owners, architects, designers and manufacturers. We finish up by studying how EPDs and HPDs are used in environmental rating systems such as LEED, Green Globes and Living Building Challenge.

This is a Product SpotLight Presentation. CableRail Kits are the most popular and cost effective solution for wood and metal railing frames, and include everything needed to attach and tension a cable.

The course provides an in depth look at the benefits of Insulated Metal Panels Barrier Wall Systems as a simpler and superior option to multiple component exterior wall assemblies. The program addresses the many challenges faced by multiple component wall assemblies; current energy code requirements; the influence of air, moisture, thermal and vapor are discussed; and actual insulated metal barrier panel case studies are reviewed. Videos and animations are used within a PowerPoint presentation to enhance the overall presentation. This program is an interactive session that encourages feedback and questions.

We review the characteristics that best describe architectural IMPs including the myriad design options available. Topics such as finishes and coatings, trimless ends, folded corners, variable reveals, segmented curves, running bond patterns, sunscreens and integrated windows are reviewed. Structural support considerations including stud walls and tube steel are studied, as well as the importance of maintaining proper wall alignment. The installation process is also reviewed using an animated video to provide step-by-step guidance. Air, water, vapor and thermal control layers are studied along with code compliance. Product and installation warranties are highlighted before wrapping up with a look at IMP sustainability and transparency.

Understanding how insulated metal panels (IMPs) are used for cold storage facilities is critical to creating energy efficient and sustainable facilities. We start with basic definitions of cold storage, controlled environments and controlled atmospheres, then review the building science behind how IMPs provide all necessary environmental control layers (air, vapor, water and thermal). From there we explore control layer continuity which is critical to prevent unwanted condensation, ice formation and heat gain in coolers and freezers. Creating suspended ceilings using IMPs requires a complete understanding of the differences between non-accessible, light/limited duty and walkable ceilings. We will review important engineering, safety and ventilation requirements for these systems. We then study the various IMP substrates and paint finishes along with their performance characteristics – essential when designing food processing areas. We conclude the program with a review of the proper draw down process when commissioning a cold storage facility.

In this one-hour course, design professionals will gain knowledge of head-of-wall, bottom-of-wall and wall-to-wall assemblies, as well as the respective UL standards for approval, It will discuss different joint treatment types and the components involved with each application. By the end of the course, design professionals will be able to specify, install, and operate fire resistance joints and joint protection to ensure occupant safety.

Discover the characteristics, benefits and design options for commercial and industrial buildings using insulated metal panels (IMPs). Recognize the factors affecting panel spans and the relationship of these to structural supports. Gain knowledge of IMP code compliance.

This course provides an overview of aluminum extrusion coatings and includes discussions on the aluminum extrusion process; a comparison of powder and liquid coatings; an overview of the chrome and the chrome-free pretreatment process; and, the performance objectives of AAMA testing standards.

Structural fire protection guards essential structural components from the devastating effects of fire. This course examines the various active and passive fireproof methods that are available with a focus on the features, types, and design considerations of prefabricated fireproof structural columns designed for exposed exterior and interior load-bearing columns.

You can REQUEST a live event at a convenient time and location for you.

There may be additional events available! See the course details page for more information.

This course provides an overview of cable assemblies used as infill on residential and commercial railings. The course will explain the uses and advantages of building with stainless steel cable railing assemblies; identify and evaluate important railing frame design requirements, considerations, and options; discuss safety and code related issues, classify and describe the cable assembly components; outline the installation process of prefabricated cable kits and custom cable assemblies; and provide valuable insight for determining the best choice of cable and fittings for a successful cable railing installation.

You can REQUEST a live event at a convenient time and location for you.

There may be additional events available! See the course details page for more information.

Mineral wool core panels provide an excellent alternative to foam core insulated metal panels and other traditional materials where the wall assembly need to be fire resistive. Ratings of up to three hours can be achieved by this product. These panels also provide all necessary control layers in a single component: air, vapor, water and thermal. Acoustic properties of the product are also evaluated. Product configurations including sizes, profiles and metal facings are studied. Code compliance and generic details are reviewed. Mineral wool core panels and their contribution to LEED credits are also studied.

This AIA CES Presentation provides all the information required to specify safe access and escape solutions including fire rated, floor doors, the correct choice of ladders and more. This CES Course covers in depth the specification requirements for roof hatches, locking options and specifications recommendations, large custom floor doors to HS-20, Fire Rated and more. If you need to design a complex floor solution for any industry from water treatment to medical (Hospitals, clinics) to industrial applications, this is the course for you.

This is a Product SpotLight Presentation.

Experience Formawall: The ultimate exterior wall system for healthier, long-lasting, high performance building enclosures. Simplify construction, enhanced thermal efficiency with integrated components to elevate performance and aesthetics with CENTRIA Formawall.

Rainscreens are a multicomponent system offering redundancy in resisting the weather; however, continuity of each component is critical. When an insulated metal panel (IMP) is used within the system, it can function as a number of these components, simplifying installation and improving performance. This course looks at IMPs acting as barrier walls behind various rainscreen systems, with a discussion on the performance characteristics for air, water, vapor, and thermal management.

This course provides participants with the knowledge of Structural Thermoplastics within the railing industry and how to properly specify them.

Air barriers on a building are now being recognized as more than simply saving energy.
An air tight building is a key to moisture management in the building envelope, proper operation of mechanical equipment, reduction in dust, odors such as second hand cigarette smoke and cooking smells.

An airtight building plays an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and moving the industry to a Net Zero Passive House building. The question from many people is how do I know my building is airtight? The answer is whole building airtightness testing. ABAA has worked to produce the latest test method ASTM E3158 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Air Leakage Rate of a Large or Multizone Building. In 2022 ABAA launched a training and certification program for Blower Door Technicians to help ensure an accurate test. This webinar will dispel many of the myths around whole building airtightness testing, walk you through a typical test and provide guidance on what to do if you do not meet the air leakage rate required. The webinar will also provide an overview of the ABAA training and certification program and why this program is set apart from some of the current industry training.

As part of a well-designed rainscreen system, single-skin metal panels offer unique aesthetic options combined with the assurance that the building envelope will withstand the effects of long-term exposure to the elements. This course compares common cladding types; presents single-skin metal panel materials, coatings, finishes, and design options; and examines using single-skin metal panels with a single-component barrier wall to form a complete rainscreen assembly.

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.

This course will educate the AEC team on the advantages of utilizing cold-formed steel framing in the construction of mid-rise structures. It discusses reasons for using cold-formed steel framing in the structural framing of buildings, the preferred method of construction to frame buildings, as well as the advantages realized by the members of the Owner/Architect/Contractor team.

This course title emphasizes the focus on prioritizing safety in horizontal access design, specifically for roof hatches and floor doors. It highlights the importance of creating secure access solutions while also incorporating daylight solutions through skylights. Attendees can expect to learn about best practices, safety considerations, and design strategies for designing safe horizontal access points. Additionally, the course will provide insights into effectively specifying skylights to optimize daylight penetration, enhancing the overall illumination in areas accessed through roof hatches and floor doors.

You can REQUEST a live event at a convenient time and location for you.

There may be additional events available! See the course details page for more information.

Frameless glass railing systems are completely post-free and offer a minimalist aesthetic that maximizes views. This course presents the IBC code requirements for glass railing systems and explores how to specify the appropriate mounting, glass, and handrail components for the substrate, location, and expected use. Case studies of completed projects illustrate the unlimited design possibilities of frameless glass railings.

Off-site construction practices for commercial projects are growing in popularity because of their ability to combat persistent industry challenges such as weather delays, skilled labor shortages, material availability issues, and price increases. While the benefits to off-site construction are undeniable, the upfront efforts required from the project team can cause apprehension. This learning will take participants on an off-site construction journey leveraging case studies to share firsthand experiences of successful projects that have been able to turn the upfront effort into a wealth of benefits.

Outdoor decks are commonly desired by homeowners and commercial property owners for both new and existing properties. Wood has long been the structural choice for outdoor deck materials. However, wood has disadvantages that can be mitigated with steel deck framing structural construction. In this course, we will discover that light-gauge steel (LGS) is lighter in weight than structural wood, is less susceptible to deterioration due to the elements and pests, requires less maintenance over time, is a sustainable material, and offers unparalleled safety features for dead loads, live loads, and environmental loads such as snow, earthquakes, and wind. Steel deck framing is quick to erect and provides for longer spans than wood of similar cross-sectional size. Structural materials can be easily lifted, and waste is reduced.

Overview of the types of architectural steep-slope metal roofing systems, metal types and finish types, system selection, substrates and fastening methods.

This course is critical to demonstrate the different options for metal roofing systems to ensure the performance and application requirements are understood for maximum performance ensuring the health and safety of building occupants and the impact on any environmental factors.