American Institute of Architects

As the largest design organization in the world, AIA is working to transform the day-to-day practice of architecture to achieve a zero-carbon, resilient, healthy, just, equitable built environment, for everyone.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 605 results.

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

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Resin-mineral composite is an exceptional building material for exterior applications and embodies the enduring appeal of wood without its challenges. The composition, design options, and performance attributes of resin-mineral composite (RMC) decking and siding are explored. Also discussed are product and manufacturer sustainability, product evaluations, and the range of applications suitable for resin-mineral composite.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    In the wake of the green movement, combined with rising energy costs, building sustainability has become an important topic. This course examines how foil-faced polyisocyanurate (polyiso) continuous insulation can function as a multiple control layer, providing a building with an air and water-resistive barrier and a thermal control layer. Additionally, this course reviews building codes and standards for meeting the continuous insulation requirements in steel stud building envelope designs, the benefits of using polyiso insulation in wall assemblies, and how polyiso insulation meets NFPA 285 requirements.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Commercial restrooms are used in various settings, from office buildings to hospitals. This course discusses how commercial restroom design can meet the needs of all users through accessibility, universal design, and inclusive design. The public nature of restrooms requires excellent air quality, a trusted level of cleanliness, durability, and water conservation. The importance of fixtures with features including touchless technology, vandalism resistance, and water efficiency is also discussed.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The facade is one of the most significant contributors to the energy consumption and comfort parameters of any building. This course explores high-performance building envelopes and the use of advanced insulated metal panel systems featuring integrated daylighting and ventilation components that combine to provide weathertightness and maximum thermal performance.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In applications where wood may be exposed to moisture, insects, or fungal organisms, preservative-treated wood can 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.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Metal roof and wall systems have long been specified for commercial, residential, and industrial buildings because they have a lengthy history of durability, reliability, and resilience. This course examines the attributes of metal panel systems and the design options that make metal-clad buildings sustainable, attractive, and suitable for a variety of applications and environmental conditions.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 30 minutes ) 

    An ideal railing system enhances the appeal and value of a property and contributes to design as well as safety, while not requiring large amounts of time or money to maintain. This course presents an overview of railing system material options with a focus on aluminum and thermoplastic. The performance, design, and sustainability benefits of each material are discussed, along with mounting and aesthetic options. The course concludes with tips on selecting the right railing system for the project and case studies showcasing aluminum and thermoplastic railing system installations.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 30 minutes ) 

    The role of a fire-rated door is to maintain the integrity of a fire-rated enclosure in the event of a fire, giving building occupants enough time to exit the burning building. This course is an introduction to fire-rated doors and a general review of the fire codes that relate to fire doors and hardware, referencing 2012, 2015, and 2018 IBC; NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) regulations; and the ADAAG (Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines).

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Infrared patio heaters sustainably increase safety and comfort in outdoor entertaining areas. There are many variables in creating ambient warmth, and the effectiveness and cost of heating an outdoor space depend on the design of the selected heating option. This course looks at the available outdoor heating options and their sustainability profiles, focusing on the types, color choices, mounting methods, and control options of electric infrared heaters. It includes a review of the steps required to select the best solution.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    With the increasing prominence of glass in new buildings and retrofits, the use of window film can raise the style, performance, and safety of today’s building projects. This course examines the use of various types of window film (decorative, solar control, and safety/security) and their role in improving occupant comfort and safety, lowering energy costs, and enhancing privacy.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course discusses healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and how the built environment can contribute to restricting their spread. We’ll look at the social and financial impact of HAIs and address factors that contribute to the spread of infection. The course offers solutions on how to design spaces and select products to reduce HAI incidences in healthcare settings, improving patient and employee safety and wellness.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The primary purpose of a roof is to provide shelter and protection; to do so effectively over the long term, proper drainage and ventilation are required. Presented here are the categories of metal roofing, the moisture- and noise-related issues associated with architectural metal roofs, the use of a three-dimensional drainage and ventilation mat as a solution to these issues, and best practices for incorporating a mat in metal and cedar roof assemblies.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Properly selected acoustical solutions are necessary to provide acoustical comfort and performance for a range of applications. This course reviews acoustic theory and design methodology to facilitate the design and specification process. A particular emphasis is placed on performance-oriented designs and strategies for different project types.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Efficient water use and conservation are key parts of sustainable development. Toilets account for the greatest water usage within a residential home (typically 30 percent). Dual-flush toilets are an option to reduce water usage by up to 20 percent while meeting the LEED® v4 Water Efficiency requirements. This toilet option can also be incorporated into accessible bathrooms and use touchless flush plates. The most attractive feature of the dual-flush toilet is that it does not require significant behavioral changes for benefits to be realized.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    A metal roof combines performance and aesthetics to give commercial and residential buildings strength, longevity, and character. This course examines the features and benefits of standing seam metal roofing and explains the factors to consider when selecting a project-specific metal roofing system.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) offer higher thermal resistance per unit thickness than traditional insulation materials. This means a building envelope can meet the effective R-values for enclosures required by the energy codes without having to increase the thickness of the walls, roof, or floors. This course discusses how VIPs work, why they are effective, and the impact the properties of the materials used to construct a VIP can have on its performance. VIP installations and the latest developments in VIP technology are reviewed to illustrate the advantages of using VIPs as thermal insulation in the design of energy-efficient buildings.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Door systems are an integral part of educational facilities. This course discusses their importance in creating a safe and secure learning environment and explores the different types of doors, frames, and hardware components. Also covered are industry standards, compliance requirements for fire and life safety, accessibility, and security measures that enhance the safety of the door assembly. The course concludes with some practical applications and case studies in educational settings.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Urban warming negatively impacts human health and quality of life, energy use, air quality, social equity, and economic prosperity. This course describes how solar reflective cool roof and wall materials help protect individuals and communities from the impacts of extreme heat and discusses the factors that influence energy savings and performance. The course also notes various climate resilience initiatives, green building programs, and energy codes that require or promote the use of cool roofs or walls and concludes by explaining the important role of third-party product ratings and the educational resources available online.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The choice of flooring is an important consideration in museums; their popularity brings a high volume of foot traffic, and museum spaces have a wide range of flooring needs. This course discusses how recycled rubber flooring is a good choice for museums because of its sustainability, durability, low maintenance requirements, performance attributes, and wide variety of design options.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course reviews the evolution of accessible restrooms and the recent, sudden prominence of universal (or adult) changing tables. We’ll examine how new changes to both the International Building Code® and statewide legislation affect public restroom design, and the profound impact universal changing tables can have on the lives of people with disabilities and their caregivers.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 30 minutes ) 

    Insulating concrete form (ICF) products use a cost-effective and robust structural material option (reinforced concrete) to turn a building envelope into a high-performing thermal, moisture, and air enclosure with disaster resistance and built-in compliance with energy code requirements. As a result of ICF performance, building owners can complete a whole structure with ICFs and reinforced concrete, including intermediate suspended floors, rooftops, and multistory designs. This course examines the advancements in ICF technology and discusses the potential contribution of ICFs to supporting improved sustainability and resilience.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Building a stronger connection with nature is critical to maintaining human health and well-being. Composite wood decking is a durable, environmentally sustainable product that can help build links with nature through outdoor living spaces. This course examines the different decking options and explains the sustainability benefits of using composite decking and how it can help meet green building requirements. Various design innovations that enhance occupant well-being are also discussed.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Leading aluminum extrusion manufacturers have established a variety of methods pertaining to material grade, surface protection, and component solutions to maximize the benefits of aluminum to suit a wide variety of applications. These advancements in technology have led to the development of sustainable wood-patterned aluminum products designed for exterior and interior applications. This course focuses on how these products can be used as a beautiful, high-performance, durable alternative for real wood in a range of applications, including screens, facades, decking, fencing, gates, cladding, and more.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Well-designed and detailed skylight systems can significantly improve both building and occupant performance. This course explores the benefits, techniques, and importance of daylighting systems that utilize high-performance skylights to optimize daylighting benefits, avoid negative impacts, and contribute positively to building, occupant, and envelope performance. It examines how daylighting with skylights can help meet the requirements of the LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL v2 Building Standard™.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Play and music are both essential parts of our lives. When we can combine music and play together in a fun and engaging space, the benefits are numerous, no matter your age. This course discusses why play and music education perform such a critical role in the development of happy, healthy children. We'll discuss the copious amounts of research that tell us that music education has real-life benefits, such as increased IQ, language development, and social engagement, and the role music plays within multiple therapies for the elderly and those suffering from mental illnesses. The course finishes with an overview of how to design musical play spaces for safety and inclusivity.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 605 results.

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