1 LU HSW/SDThis article is available in the October 2011 print and digital editions of ARCHTIECT Magazine. It is registered for 1 HSW/SD hour with AIA and 1 CMP hour with GBCI. This program compares traditional HVAC systems to variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems. General features and benefits of VRF systems are discussed, including energy efficiency, installation, operation and potential contribution to LEED rating systems. Architects, building owners, contractors, operation and maintenance management will be introduced to VRF systems. Three case examples are presented, describing why VRF was selected for each of the projects and what the estimated benefits of the VRF system were in each case. Finally, a brief overview of VRF systems in building information modeling (BIM) is presented. Take the course.
- Posted:
- October 2011
- Subject(s):
- HVAC
- Sponsor:
- Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating
- Certification(s):
- AIA
1 LU HSWThe “2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design” issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ) contain new provisions that directly impact design specifications and construction on school projects completed after March 15, 2012. Failure to comply with newly mandated minimums could generate problems not only for schools and school districts, but also raise liability issues regarding architect responsibility. This course covers critical changes in ADA guidelines, focusing on key aspects relating to schools, ADA students, locks and lockers. We’ll compare functionality, ease of use and features of ADA-compliant locks and non-compliant locks. We’ll look at value-added design advantages, cost issues and long-term operational flexibility factors for you to consider when you are specifying locker locks for your next project. Finally, we’ll detail new product options available to better serve students whose abilities fall within the ADA Standards. Take the course.
- Posted:
- September 2011
- Subject(s):
- Codes and Standards, Locksets and Hardware
- Sponsor:
- Master Lock
- Certification(s):
- AIA
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1 LU LUThere are many factors that affect the long term durability of concrete. Some of these are: mix design, environmental conditions, structural loading and design, quality of the raw materials used in the concrete and mixing, placing and curing. This presentation will explain the basics of cement hydration, and introduce the various curing methods and floor treatments available. In addition, this presentation will help the specifying agency and/or end user identify the proper materials and products needed for the project. Take the course.
- Posted:
- September 2011
- Subject(s):
- Concrete Surfaces, Concrete Curing
- Sponsor:
- W.R. Meadows
- Certification(s):
- AIA
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1 LUThis program introduces different classes of high performance concrete coatings and compares and contrasts typical surface preparation requirements for different types of coatings. The course describes the basic chemistry and performance properties of different high performance coatings. Take the course.
- Posted:
- September 2011
- Sponsor:
- Bayer Materials Science
- Certification(s):
- AIA
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1 LUMany people do not realize the complexity and strategic planning that goes into maintaining the integrity of a job site. Job sites are as unique as the building or structure that will be built on them - the topography, drainage, soil type, indigenous flora and proximity to waterways are all taken into consideration in site planning. Using segmental retaining walls on a job site can prevent erosion, add to a project’s aesthetic appeal, or create more useable land. This presentation will look at how segmental retaining walls maintain and improve a job site. Take the course.
- Posted:
- September 2011
- Sponsor:
- Keystone Retaining Wall Systems
- Certification(s):
- AIA, ASLA
1.0 LU HSW/SD You will be able to explain why supplemental energy is often required to support renewable energy technologies. You will be able to describe how propane supplements three types of alternative energy technologies. You will be able to identify several limiting factors that will help you specify an appropriate renewable energy system. Finally, you will be able to identify basic functions of common features in three renewable energy technologies. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2011
- Subject(s):
- Water Heaters
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, USGBC, NAHB
1.0 LU HSWComposite materials have been used for thousands of years. New applications are identified each year. As one of the first modern composite materials fiberglass is at the fore front of this innovation. This course will familiarize you with all the basic aspects of fiberglass and specifically target their usefulness in the door and window industry. Once you have completed this course you will be able to discuss how composite materials provide predictable and superior performance characteristics when compared to other window frame material. You will also be able to explain the pultrusion process and identify the specific characteristics of pultruded fiberglass. Finally you will be able to apply this knowledge to determining which window frames will be best for your project. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2011
- Subject(s):
- Doors, Windows, Graphic Design
- Sponsor:
- Integrity Windows and Doors
- Certification(s):
- AIA, USGBC
- 1.0 LU HSW
This learning unit will address the benefits of a Condensing Tankless Water Heater and explore how retrofitting a home with a Condensing Tankless Water Heater—or installing one in new construction—can offer the most energy efficiency of any water heater, even propane Tankless Water Heaters, which until now have been the most energy-efficient water heaters available. Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heaters are the wave of the future when it comes to super energy-efficient and environmentally friendly water heating. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2011
- Subject(s):
- Energy Efficiency, Water Heaters
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NAHB, USGBC
1.0 LU HSW/SDThere are four main objectives in this course. First, you will be able to list at least three initiatives that are driving change in fixtures and water conservation. You will be able to describe how the requirements of the LEED program affect payback; also, you will be introduced to considerations for performance and maintenance of water saving plumbing products. Finally, we will consider how new faucet and plumbing technologies impact economics and water consumption. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2011
- Subject(s):
- Water Conservation, Plumbing
- Sponsor:
- American Standard
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NARI, USGBC
1.0 LU HSW/SDYou will compare and contrast basic performance qualities, materials origins, carbon footprints, lifecycle analyses and installed performance of four common window framing materials. You will be able to compare and contrast window framing material qualities in detail. A case study of a net-zero home in Chicago showcases how window framing and glass selection are critical to energy performance of a home. Take the course.
- Posted:
- February 2011
- Subject(s):
- Windows, Life-Cycle Assessment, Green Design
- Sponsor:
- Marvin Windows
- Certification(s):
- AIA