EDUCATION PROVIDER PROGRAM (EPP)

This course examines the design and benefits of pre-engineered trench drains in a sustainable wastewater management system. Discover how they effectively manage water runoff, prevent ponding, and enhance safety in transportation, industrial facilities, and public spaces while supporting sustainable practices. Explore system types, maintenance strategies, and performance optimization, along with guidance on funding and compliance. Gain the knowledge to implement smarter, safer, and more efficient water management solutions in your next project.

Outdoor shelters not only provide protection from the elements but also add visual interest to outdoor public spaces, and advances in shelter design are changing the way the recreational landscape is defined. This course looks at current capabilities in shelter design, compares pre-engineered to site-built shelters, and focuses on the advantages of using a manufacturer who offers design and engineering services. Sustainable aspects of shelter design are also discussed.

ONGOING - FREE - 1 HOUR

Precast concrete pavers and roof deck systems enable designers to deliver on aesthetics and design objectives while achieving safety and durability requirements. Patented roof deck systems allow for the creation of safe and stable roof deck patios and green roofs that maintain sustainability requirements. This course examines the raw materials used in these systems, reviews the different finishes available, and discusses different paver applications and their methods of installation.

Stairs are often a prominent feature or even the focal point of an architectural design project and play a vital role in creating an aesthetically pleasing interior atmosphere, or an exterior welcoming point to a residential, commercial, or industrial building. This course provides an overview of the many benefits of installing precast concrete stair treads and landings, how to detail and specify them, and how to address related building code, design, and construction requirements. 

Precious metals are valued for their beauty, durability, scarcity, and workability. This course explores the history,symbolism, and characteristics of precious metals and how to use them in modern luxury bath and kitchen design.

Wind load can significantly impact buildings, affecting their structural integrity and safety. Perimeter roof edge systems are a primary safeguard during strong wind events. This course provides an overview of the types, features, and benefits of perimeter roof edge systems, system selection considerations, the impact of wind uplifts on roofs, and the building codes the testing standards applicable to perimeter roof edge systems.

In applications where wood may be exposed to moisture, insects or fungal organisms, preservative-treated wood can help ensure a project’s durability. This course reviews: the manufacturing process for pressure-treated wood; types of preservative treatments and the required levels of retention as dictated by the end-use application, desired service life and exposure conditions; American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) Use Category standards; current issues concerning preserved wood in residential and commercial construction; and Best Management Practices (BMPs) for aquatic uses.

Cable railings are a beautifully minimalist way to meet safety requirements without obstructing the view. Learn how to assemble a commercial-grade cable railing with sophisticated fittings engineered to simplify installation, comply with building codes, and reduce overall labor costs.

This course is designed to help the commercial building team understand how to best use new products introduced into the market for building enclosures. These innovative products and systems assist in combining multiple steps of a traditional commercial exterior assembly, such as structure, fire, water, air, thermal, vapor, and acoustic control layers, into fewer steps. The course reviews various hybridized sheathing solutions and shows how the integration of advanced technology has improved performance, capability, and sustainability. 

ONGOING - FREE - 1 HOUR

Manufacturing companies are seeing an increased demand for product transparency. This course discusses what sustainability and Design for Environment are, how transparency documents are created, how they contribute to green building certification, and how investing in sustainability can produce process and operational efficiencies that benefit people, planet, and business.

This course provides an overview of shopcoat primers for structural steel and their role in corrosion protection and durability. Learners will review primer composition, surface preparation standards, environmental considerations, and protection levels for interior and exterior applications. Current coating standards and performance-based specification strategies are discussed to help design professionals select appropriate primer systems that support long-term structural performance and reduce premature coating failure.

Ensuring proper use of methods and materials allows masonry walls to perform well and enjoy a long life. Use of masonry joint reinforcement and accessories is an essential part of this. This course provides a brief history of solid masonry walls leading up to the modern cavity walls of today, including a discussion of the basic working knowledge of masonry joint reinforcing, structural codes, and moisture control in cavity wall construction.

Protected membrane roof (PMR) systems offer many benefits to building owners and provide architects with design options that can maximize the energy efficiency, durability, and performance of a building envelope. This course compares the functional and physical features of PMR systems to conventional low-slope roofing applications and discusses the standard ASCE 7 and its impact on wind uplift design.

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.

Vapor barriers beneath concrete slabs on grade are critical for controlling moisture vapor infiltration from the ground. This course provides an overview of vapor barriers used beneath concrete slabs on grade and in crawl spaces, showcasing common flooring failures that occur when a slab is not properly protected. We’ll explore how moisture enters and moves in the concrete, review key prevention and testing methods, and examine relevant industry standards and specification guidance. Finally, we’ll apply these concepts to practical case studies.