High-performance coatings are a necessity when it comes to protecting building exteriors and restoring them after harsh weathering and UV degradation; the right coatings prolong a building exterior’s life span and divert materials from landfills. New PVDF coating systems provide superior protection while satisfying aesthetic and environmental considerations. Their various characteristics and benefits are explored, and application methods are discussed.

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.

This one-hour course will study the rainscreen principle for implementation in your architectural designs. We will examine conventional wall systems and introduce two types of methods utilizing the rainscreen principle. Through a series of application examples we will consider a variety of design strategies and best practices based on climate conditions.

This program will address the manufacturing, design, and construction issues unique to tall segmental retaining walls. The presentation will discuss the manufacturing tolerances, the importance of soil properties, unique design details for tall walls, along with construction/quality control issues specifically related to taller walls.

This program provides a brief overview of Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement (PICP) systems and then focuses on the long-term surface infiltration performance of these effective stormwater control measures. Mechanisms for sedimentation and clogging of PICP joints is discussed along with a review of ASTM C 1781 testing procedures. Total Suspended Solids (TSS) removal efficiencies and current research on variables that contribute to hydraulic performance of PICPs are discussed. The presentation concludes with information on surface infiltration maintenance and restoration methods including a review of available cleaning machines. PICP maintenance costs and inspection checklists are also reviewed.

This is a Product SpotLight Presentation.

DesignRail Modern Aluminum Railing Kits - Engineered for easy installation using components that snap and screw together, with pre-drilled posts and pickets to support 6200 series 1/8” CableRail Kits for Metal posts (sold separately). Railing kits are available in 6ft and 8ft lengths for 36″ heights and in 6ft lengths for 42-in heights. Each railing project will require specific quantities and types of kits and parts, depending on your project.

This course details sustainable attributes, the aesthetic and functional benefits, construction, certifications, and sample installations of artificial grass.

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 presentation will cover what civil engineers need to know when utilizing segmental retaining walls for grade separation in their site development plans. The presentation will introduce participants to the National Concrete Masonry Association’s Best Practices Guide for Segmental Retaining Walls focusing on recommendations relevant to Civil Engineers and discuss how they are applied to enhance the safety and longevity of structural segmental walls. Topics will include risks associated with using a “design by others” approach to segmental retaining walls and the importance of geotechnical engineering support. The presentation will address how building foundations, footers, pond applications, and fencing/guardrail codes impact the design and construction of segmental walls.

Power and charging requirements for hospitality facilities are changing radically and rapidly. This course examines the options for and benefits of supplying power and charging outlets in walls, furniture, headboards, nightstands, public seating, and public gathering spaces, including outdoor areas, as well as the applicable codes for furniture inserted outlets. The course concludes with an overview of the requirements for and benefits of installing occupancy sensors and shut-offs in guest rooms to further meet local electrical code and energy code compliance.

This program address the issues that are hindering the Landscape and construction industry. It will take a hard look at what trends are growing and what areas of landscape construction should be concentrated on. This program will also focus on how to face the construction obstacles by using products that are production, time saving, and profit orientated.

This program will address the basic concepts about segmental retaining wall (SRW) systems. The presentation will address the history of reinforced earth structures and summarize the site conditions that impact SRW performance and design. Installation details, the proper construction sequence, and specifications are also addressed.

Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable and economic solution to help ease some of the water scarcity and drought-related issues facing large swaths of the US. Utilizing permeable pavers to cleanse, capture, and convey stormwater to an underground storage system can provide harvested stormwater that can potentially be used for irrigation, laundry, toilets, car washing, and numerous non-potable water needs depending on what is allowed in local and state regulations. This presentation will provide real-world solutions to successfully capture, store and reuse rainwater, while educating the audience on the key design considerations required to implement the harvesting system. Design considerations that will be discussed include soil conditions and modifications (if necessary), hydrologic design; structural design for the permeable paver system and vault system; pump and discharge, pipe sizing, sizing the storage volume based on demand and precipitation; and overflow and bypass considerations.

Composite Decking and Sustainable Design summarizes composite deck manufacturing, specification and various construction applications. Composite decking materials have become a viable and affordable choice in commercial and residential applications, resilient to the elements and sustainable over time. We will highlight the aesthetic opportunities and design values available to achieve a design that is healthy/green and safe for years. We will review: Moisture Resistance, Slip Resistance, Thermal Expansion, Hardness and Weight, and Load Capacity.

Comprehensive site security design should balance managing traffic flow and preventing vehicular intrusion with enhancing the existing character of the site. This course presents FEMA’s guidance on risk assessment and layers of defense, vehicle impact test standards, bollard types, the precast concrete manufacturing process, barrier system design considerations, and incorporating precast concrete bollards and site furnishings into perimeter security design.

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.

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.

This presentation reviews ASCE 58-16 Structural Design of Interlocking Concrete Pavement for Municipal Streets and Roadways, which is the design standard published by the American Society of Civil Engineers updated in 2016. The topics covered include design parameters and limitations, structural design, construction details, and specifications of interlocking concrete paver systems.

This program will address the latest innovative solutions for using Segmental Retaining Walls (SRWs) to address challenging site access conditions. The presentation reviews the characteristics of gravity wall and reinforced wall systems and introduces a new solution for utilizing SRWs in conditions where room for reinforcement is not available. The use of structural backfill and newly developed aesthetic facing systems can be used to create gravity wall structures. Installation details, the proper construction sequence, and specifications are also addressed.

Modern security bollards are highly engineered and tested devices that can withstand deliberate ramming by a 15,000 lb. vehicle. Bollards are more than decorative boundary markers; they are an essential tool to protect lives and property. This course explains bollard crash testing standards, reviews the pros and cons of available bollard materials, and discusses steel bollard designs for low- and high-impact applications.

This presentation will describe how PICP systems are designed and constructed. Examples will illustrate the keys to properly constructing and maintaining these effective stormwater management systems. An update on the Southeast Atlanta Green Infrastructure Project will be provided highlighting how Atlanta converted six miles of impervious roadway to PICP to reduce flooding and combined sewer overflows. The presentation will conclude with lessons learned related to utilities, roadway slopes, and maintenance.

Examine permeable paving detention as an alternative to traditional storm water management approaches including open detention ponds and underground pipe. Impervious pavement is the main source of storm water runoff and this course discusses an alternative method with gravel and grass grid pavers. These systems have sustainable and environmental benefits; stormwater management (Low Impact Development) advantages, and can significantly reduce site development costs.

This course covers the essentials of selecting security bollards that provide adequate protection while adding exceptional aesthetic value to a project. This course first examines the needs of a modern outdoor environment and how an assessment can be completed to evaluate a project’s security needs. Next, the course will cover common testing standards as well as the necessary foundation engineering options required to meet those standards. Finally, the course highlights lighting and material options that can be selected to integrate seamlessly into the design of a landscape.

This program begins with a brief summary of the evolution of stormwater management beginning with conveyance and transitioning to water quantity management, and most recently stormwater treatment. Stormwater Control Measures using Low Impact Development and Green Infrastructure design that can accomplish all of these objectives are now desired in many municipalities that deal with flooding or have environmentally sensitive waterways. This presentation will compare surface-based BMPs to manufactured treatment system options, and highlight Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement (PICP) as a viable solution to address conveyance, water quantity and quality objectives. A summary of the academic and industry research to date on using PICP for water treatment will be presented, along with strategies for combining the benefits of PICP with manufactured treatment systems.

A rainscreen is a type of assembly applied to an exterior wall consisting of an outer layer, inner layer, and a ventilated cavity between the two. These systems have been used extensively in other markets but are relatively new to the US. As codes evolve, and building science advances, rainscreens are becoming a popular way of enclosing buildings. They greatly increase performance while simultaneously enabling designers to achieve new and striking designs.

Roof top paver systems have become an integral part of commercial roofing that not only improves the energy efficiency but also increases the life expectancy of the overall roof system. 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. The industry has developed various methods for addressing wind uplift, many of which are covered in this course.

This program will provide an overview of Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil Integrated Bridge System (GRS-IBS), a bridge design concept being promoted by the Federal Highway Administration to accelerate construction time and offer significant cost savings for the construction of local, county and state bridges. Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) facing elements, along with geosynthetic reinforcement material, is proving to be a viable solution for a majority of the bridges known to be structurally deficient and in need of replacement across our nation. The presentation addresses the design concept, key materials, specifications and important construction details. A case study example illustrating the construction sequence is also provided.

Vehicle barriers are needed to protect property and occupants against various threats. This course reviews the types of barriers and their related testing and performance.

This presentation covers best practices for designing, specifying and building segmental retaining walls (SRWs) as developed by industry since its start. The purpose of this session is to promote a zero wall failure initiative by educating the designers and specifiers in best practices related to segmental retaining walls.

Roof top paver systems have become an integral part of commercial roofing that not only improves the energy efficiency but also increases the life expectancy. Roof top pavers provide a durable surface protecting the roofing system from thermal shock, UV degradation and impact. In addition to these benefits, roof top pavers also add the ability to increase the useable square footage of a structure by providing a durable pedestrian surface on roof decks.

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.

This education course includes a thorough overview of landscape edging and restraints. From the important reasons to use edging on projects, to the many different applications that require edging, to the many edging shapes, to the various materials used for edging, this short one hour course covers it all.

This presentation reviews ASCE 68-18 Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement, which is the design standard published by the American Society of Civil Engineers in late 2018. The topics covered include design parameters and limitations, site selection and optimization, structural design, and hydrologic design of permeable paver systems. Other topics include construction and maintenance of permeable paver systems including in-depth knowledge of specification writing to ensure that the design intent is clear.

Belgard Commercial is committed to partnering with the design community to help you find solutions to meet or even exceed your client’s needs and expectations. In this session, we will review Belgard Commercial’s product line options, features, benefits, and design support services.

One of the most exciting developments in outdoor living is the arrival of ¾” thick porcelain outdoor pavers. The concept began to spark interest in 2012 and is continuing to grow in popularity. Outdoor porcelain pavers have the same benefits as regular porcelain –being frost-resistant, skid-resistant, durable and easy to clean – combined with incredibly high breakage loads (up to 2,000 pounds) creates the perfect solution for gardens, terraces and high traffic outdoor areas. Outdoor porcelain pavers can be dry laid onto grass, gravel, dirt and sand – or onto terraces and roofs using raised supports – without grout, adhesives or specialized workers, making installation incredibly easy.

This program will provide an overview of how interlocking concrete pavement systems can be applied to commercial projects to enhance the value, performance and pavement life cycle costs. The presentation addresses how pavers can aid in defining themes, character and space through creative patterns, and explains how paver systems work. Site conditions that impact paver performance are highlighted, including issues related to access, safety, specifications, and construction details. Finally, the program concludes with a discussion on sustainability and attributes that pavers offer commercial installations.

Vinyl has long been a material of choice for construction products for interiors and exteriors because of its durability, cleanability, affordability, and suitability for a vast range of applications. This course furthers the conversation by discussing vinyl’s recyclability and sustainability and the attributes of laminated rigid PVC exterior and interior wall panels and siding and soffit products.

Alaska yellow cedar (AYC) is one of the most visibly unique woods available to builders, architects, and homeowners. It is sustainable, rot resistant, and has a natural beauty that requires very little staining or finishing. AYC is popular for exterior and interior residential applications including decking, landscaping features, shakes and shingles, paneling, mass timbers and beams. This course examines the performance characteristics of AYC including fire resistance and durability and various applications are also discussed.

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.

This course features an overview discussion on modified bitumen roofing solutions for lowslope roofing applications. It provides an explanation of the features, benefits and differences between SBS and APP systems, including how these systems offer a sustainable, built-to-last roofing solution.

Designers, owners, and occupants all value the appeal of natural brick and wood for exterior cladding and interior surfaces. But these natural materials come with drawbacks. Wood can split, warp, cup, mold, and attract insects. Brick is heavy and susceptible to efflorescence. Quality control is not assured. The fresh alternative is resin cast shapes that mimic wood and brick, delivering the benefits of biophilia and a sense of connection with the natural world, but without the problems. This course examines the wood and brick aesthetic of resin cast shapes and demonstrates their sustainability and performance qualities. They are durable, lightweight, easy to install, and contribute to a continuous building envelope. Case studies of noteworthy projects illustrate the superior form and function of this next-level cladding alternative.

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 presentation provides an introduction to permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) systems. An overview of the problem with impervious surfaces and the advantages of Low Impact Development, specifically stormwater infiltration practices through pavement surfaces. The presentation addresses designing for hydrological and structural requirements, and reviews required details. The design approach discussed is based on the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute’s PICP design manual. Specifications and maintenance requirements are reviewed along with information on winter performance. Several project case studies illustrate the construction process.

The construction industry poses a sustainability threat to the environment. Reusable construction materials however, provides a great avenue for designers and contractors to reach their organization's sustainability goals. Site protection is a serious topic as flying debris and dust are problems every professional must consider in the planning phases of renovations and new construction. This is an introduction course for Architects and Construction Managers aiming to meet their sustainability goals for construction projects. Learn how to improve overall project sustainability rating right from the design stage with recyclable and reusable walls. Learn material selection for dust and debris containment for improved safety on construction sites. Make time and cost savings for contractors and clients using BIM families embedded with rich information; a big game changer for any designer. This course highlights effective site protection, human safety & sustainability decisions which can be achieved with reusable modular wall systems.

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.

Rooftop HVAC equipment, waste receptacles, and other unsightly equipment are commonplace in today’s commercial industries. Unfortunately, these items are necessary but unsightly. However, screening can help building owners enhance aesthetics and meet code requirements. Screening offers not only a visual benefit but also helps to improve the safety and security of your property. This course offers an in-depth discussion of rooftop and ground screening, the various ways to screen, and considerations when selecting a screen for your project. Different installation techniques and comparative characteristics of traditional screening methods versus unit-attached and modular screening methods are also discussed.

Terrazzo is versatile and durable, comes in a range of colors, and has multiple applications. It can be used in interiors and exteriors and, depending on the manufacturing process, can be customized to fit complex geometries. In this course, we discuss different applications of precast, cementitious, and epoxy terrazzo and the installation requirements, as well as the ability to customize these products to fit different design requirements.

Synthetic (artificial) grass or turf has improved steadily since its first installation half a century ago, and it is now a sophisticated surfacing system that can be customized to suit specific purposes. This course reviews that development and then focuses on the specifics of synthetic grass suitable for use on playgrounds. This focus includes a detailed examination of its construction, installation, and maintenance, and a number of sample installations.

Without a doubt, the human-nature connection contributes to well-being and improves our mood. Water features are one way to extend this connection to the indoors. In this course, we'll review the components of indoor water features, design options and considerations and look at a few case studies.

Concrete products such as precast pieces, pavers, and terrazzo have long provided builders with a flexible range of options for their projects. Beyond their versatility, these concrete products are highly sustainable, thanks to their ability to be recycled, low carbon footprint, and long life span.

Geosynthetics have been used for decades in pavement systems and can provide many benefits to permeable paver systems when properly applied. Geosynthetics can provide the following functions: separation, reinforcement, filtration, drainage, and containment. The most common geosynthetics used within permeable paver systems are geotextiles, geogrids, geomembranes, geocells, and geocomposites. This presentation will provide an overview of each geosynthetic mentioned above and will discuss in-depth what functions each type performs and how and when to use each one.

The enhanced need for water conservation and a decrease of harmful runoff resulting from lawn maintenance has pushed the demand for environmentally-friendly alternatives for landscaping and recreational areas. Explored in this course are the uses, benefits, and specification and installation considerations of artificial turf products that replicate a natural grass look and feel in any environment.

This panel discussion explores building sustainable designs for energy efficiency, water efficiency and stormwater management starting from the roof. With urban heat island effect compounding the global warming from climate change, we are in urgent need of understanding how the roof can be very effective in delivering sustainable, high performance buildings while incorporating stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs). Smart material choices and quality and environmental performance certifications are part of assuring performance meets design intent. In addition, job site pain points and project insights for maximizing building design performance will be shared.

This course explores the versatility and benefits of temporary walls/barricades in optimizing the design of large spaces. Architects and designers will learn how to use SwiftWall systems effectively to address common pain points in their projects ranging from the design of manufacturing facilities, lease spaces, warehouses, tents, and industrial spaces. This course addresses pain points in design and construction toward improved project value in adaptability, reusability, cost management, planning, and sustainability. Additionally, this course helps designers unleash the power of SwiftWall for enhanced design accuracy and efficiency using BIM.

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.

Western red cedar’s (WRC) aesthetic, economic, and environmental benefits are just some of the reasons why builders and designers are increasingly gravitating to this species of wood. Presented here are modern, historical, and cultural uses of western red cedar, as well as its performance characteristics, grade specification, and finishes. Also discussed are sustainable forest management practices and certification agencies, and how sustainably sourced wood can contribute to LEED® credits.

Provides an overview of the performance characteristics and benefits of using multi-layer, cellular PVC decking—a durable decking material that replicates the unique beauty of exotic hardwood.

Green roof systems are typically described in terms of soil depth (intensive vs. extensive) or where they are assembled (built-in-place vs. modular). These are useful categories, but do not address key elements of green roof design, such as drainage, water storage, roof slope, and other considerations. This presentation will review different green roof systems and components, and their use in meeting project goals relating to storm water management, integration with hardscape, and constructability.

This presentation provides an introduction to permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) systems. An overview of the problem with impervious surfaces and the advantages of Low Impact Development, specifically stormwater infiltration practices through pavement surfaces. The presentation addresses designing for hydrological and structural requirements, and reviews required details. The design approach discussed is based on the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute's PICP design manual. Specifications and maintenance requirements are reviewed along with information on winter performance. Several project case studies illustrate the construction process.

This course explains the NFPA 285 test method, its origin, its procedures, when it is required, and design considerations necessary for compliance. Criteria in ASHRAE 90.1 for continuous insulation and air/water resistive barriers are reviewed and identified as contributors to the rise of NFPA 285 requirements. It addresses code compliance in light of recent material changes, code changes, and additional testing.

This presentation reviews public safety and accessibility design considerations when selecting unit concrete pavers for walkway surfaces. Current ADA criteria, slip resistance standards and test methods, and latest developments related to a new roughness index for wheelchair vibration will be addressed. Other paver safety topics covered include: chamfer widths and ease of transition, visibility and color contrast, truncated dome requirements, permeable pavement surface openings, snowplowing, use of deicing chemicals, and traffic calming benefits.

Wind forces always influence building design and detailing. This course focuses on one particular force, wind uplift, and its influence on roof paving system design and selection. It examines how wind loads and building configuration affect the design of roof paving systems; the codes, regulations, and calculation approaches that inform and control such designs; and the various options designers can use to design safe, appealing outdoor roof paving systems that will withstand even the strongest winds.

This course illustrates how architectural gate and fencing systems can be designed to meet modern security and design requirements while harmonizing with their surrounding environment. Fencing and gate systems are discussed in terms of their composition, materials, coatings, finishes, and performance in interior and exterior applications.