American Construction Inspectors Association

The American Construction Inspectors Association (ACIA) was formed in 1954 and incorporated in 1959 to provide educational opportunities and promote standards of knowledge and conduct for all construction inspectors.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 605 results.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Identifying, salvaging, and reusing stone and brick is a multifaceted strategy that benefits the environment, economy, and society. It represents a practical and visionary approach to building and design that respects the past, enhances the present, and prepares for a more sustainable future. This course reviews the impact of stone and brick reclamation by examining case studies focusing on modern American architecture and interior and exterior design. The course discusses how material repurposing benefits a society increasingly concerned about environmental sustainability.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Typically, all the brick selected for a given project will be either full bed depth (anchored) or thin brick (adhered); however, situations may benefit from combining the two types of masonry veneer on a project. The intent of this course is to differentiate between the types of brick masonry veneer, discuss the unique detailing required when combining veneer types, and provide project examples demonstrating where both types of masonry veneer have been successfully integrated. This course will focus on exterior applications of anchored and adhered masonry veneer.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    At their root, metal roofs and walls made from steel, copper, zinc, or aluminum have a lower environmental impact because of their ability to be recycled and reused. This course focuses on the green aspects of standing seam metal roofs, and in particular, their cool roof characteristics. Also addressed are the implications of heat islands, what constitutes construction of cool roofs/walls and how they work, some rules of thumb for understanding cool metal roofing, roof slope impacts on performance, and codes, ratings, and standards that apply to designing cool roofs/walls.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Synthetic sports turf systems offer all-weather play for a wide variety of sports and provide a consistent, durable surface with lower maintenance costs than natural grass. This course reviews the components of synthetic turf systems, different product types, and procedures for installation, maintenance, and use. Guidance is offered on how tested values can impact field performance and how to specify a system that meets safety, performance, use, and budget requirements.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    The diffuse light-transmitting and composite technology of translucent structural sandwich panels has increasingly caught the imagination of architects and designers because it is possible to maximize wall or roof daylighting while minimizing energy loss, with consequent savings in the running costs of heating, air conditioning, and artificial lighting. This course explores the fundamental connection between light and health by examining how translucent structural sandwich panels deliver glare-free, diffuse daylight deeper and more evenly into spaces with maximum thermal efficiency.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Understanding building physics is critical to proper building envelope design. Examined here are practical concepts for the building designer, including how cladding systems perform across different climate zones and applications. Environmental control layers and hygrothermal loads are reviewed, as is the concept of perfect/universal wall design. The course focuses on how single-component insulated metal panels (IMPs) function as a perfect/universal wall, simplifying wall system design and installation.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Light-manipulating glass products transport, redirect, refract, and reflect light to create architectural spaces that engage occupants with the unexpected interplay of light and shadow. This course explores these durable, functional products and their many options for customization. Also reviewed is how glass panels may apply to several credits and features in the LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Greenhouses are used in an array of applications from residential to commercial, institutional, or educational. This course describes the glazing options, accessories, environmental controls, and planning considerations that contribute to a successful greenhouse. Also presented are the configuration options and decorative details that make each greenhouse unique and ideally suited for its purpose.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Standing seam metal roofing has been used successfully in the United States for centuries, and proper specification is key to realizing its intended performance. Examined here are: the factors driving the demand for standing seam metal roof and wall systems; standing seam panel basics; gauge and grade; oil canning; specification considerations; testing standards; and forming, delivery, storage, handling and warranty.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Cleanliness and sanitation are important aspects of buildings and businesses, especially in restrooms. Users want environments where they don’t have to worry about picking up germs while owners desire solutions that are safe, attractive, and cost effective. Smart, connected fixtures can leverage sensor technology to optimize user experiences while also streamlining the management of building facilities, conserving water, and providing a hygienic, touchless experience for users. 

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Access panels are covers for the openings in walls or ceilings that allow access to concealed equipment for the purpose of maintenance or replacement. This course provides a detailed understanding of architectural wall and ceiling access panels, including how they are specified, installed, and finished. Design and selection considerations such as ventilation options, safety, security, and fire-rated enclosures are also examined.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Air barriers improve the health and comfort of building occupants, improve energy efficiency, and prevent premature degradation of materials, increasing the structure’s life cycle. A successful air and moisture barrier system means under-slab, below-grade, and above-grade systems must work together to provide a continuous barrier. This course looks at above-grade air barrier systems and their types and components. Continuity and compatibility, specification, and installation challenges are also considered.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Locating mechanical and electrical equipment on a roof is often necessary for space and efficiency in a building design. However, it can be challenging to provide a means for safe maintenance access while preserving the roof membrane and structural integrity and not interfering with other rooftop equipment. This course presents the components that comprise rooftop support systems designed to solve these challenges, as well as system design considerations and compliance with the International Building Code® (IBC®) and the International Mechanical Code® (IMC®).

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Main entrance air curtains are used by architects and engineers in commercial, institutional, and industrial settings to both improve energy efficiency and protect occupant comfort and well-being. This course reviews the research that led to air curtains being approved as an alternative to vestibules in ASHRAE 90.1-2019 and other building codes, as well as how air curtains on main entries contribute to sustainability goals around energy conservation, public health, and indoor air quality.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    According to building professionals, the solution to achieving an energy-efficient building envelope is to focus more on the roof. Protected membrane roof (PMR) assemblies deliver thermal efficiency and can play a valuable role in a sustainable design strategy. Presented in this course is a review of the components, advantages, ballast options, and design and installation considerations of PMR assemblies.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Advancements in composite decking technology are transforming the way outdoor spaces are designed and built, particularly in multifamily settings where effective water management is critical. This course introduces mineral-based composite decking systems and their role in eliminating the need for secondary membranes. Learners will explore how these all-in-one solutions streamline installation, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and help prevent common issues such as mold, decay, and water intrusion. The course also highlights how well-designed outdoor amenities can foster social connection, support resident well-being, and enhance the value of shared spaces.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Selecting a countertop surface today, whether for a break lounge or a reception desk, means weighing the relative sustainability of the choices while considering whether the material meets the design objectives of the space. This course will help you decide whether quartz surfacing does that. We will review its performance characteristics and environmental and human health impacts, compare it to other options, and guide selection and design.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Energy codes at the federal, state, and local levels increasingly focus on reducing energy consumption, saving consumers money, and reducing CO2 emissions. Whether new or recently updated, energy codes play an essential role in the buildings we design, build, and ultimately live, work, and play in. This course examines the lighting requirements and provisions of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2019 and the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code ® , with a focus on plug and lighting control strategies for energy efficiency.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Segmental retaining walls (SRWs) are used in many landscaping applications, including small residential backyards and large commercial and transportation situations. This course provides an overview of segmental retaining wall systems and materials, including SRW terminology, soils, geosynthetics, general uses, and potential site issues. This program is best suited for those with little to no background in segmental retaining wall systems or materials or those desiring a refresher course in segmental retaining walls.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Roofing is one of the most common renovation projects on commercial buildings. Upgrading a roof assembly to meet current building standards provides an opportunity to save energy and maintain the necessary fire and structural performance. This course reviews the code requirements for commercial reroofing and discusses how reroofing can improve a building’s energy efficiency.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The recent shift towards protecting the environment has also brought about a better understanding of our innate need to reconnect with our natural surroundings. This is known as biophilia. In this course, we will examine the elements of biophilic design and how to implement biophilic design strategies, known to improve physical and mental well-being of occupants. The use of resilient flooring in commercial applications offers an opportunity to implement biophilic design.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The fireplace has always been a focal point in any home, providing warmth and a place for friends and family to gather. Today’s wood-burning fireplaces, inserts, and stoves have become increasingly efficient and clean burning. This course examines using wood as a fuel source and discusses the many characteristics that can affect heat production, efficiency, and burn time. New burning technologies that meet EPA certification requirements for released particulate matter are summarized, as are design and installation specifications.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    For many years, preformed metal wall panels have been a top choice for building owners and architects, offering an excellent blend of cost effectiveness, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, particularly in rainscreen and screen walls. This course examines the different materials, profiles, and finish options for these panels and dives into applications and best practices for design and installation.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    No discussion about a material’s sustainability is complete unless it addresses embodied carbon, the carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions associated with the material over its cradle-to-grave life cycle. Changes made to spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation formulations address the impacts of embodied carbon. This course explores the evolution and environmental impacts of SPF blowing agents, the performance benefits of SPF, physical property testing and certifications, and SPF’s potential LEED® v4 contributions. Case studies make evident the performance value of SPF.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Today’s sectional overhead doors are more sophisticated than ever. Options include high-strength glazing for security and insulated steel sections for increased energy efficiency and durability. Code requirements for safety in high wind-load areas, impact resistance to hurricanes, and reductions in air transmission have led to improvements in door technology and hardware. This course examines a range of safety and security options for architects to consider when designing and specifying sectional overhead doors.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 605 results.

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