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 588 results.

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

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Growing and concentrating populations, shifting weather patterns, increasing frequency and ferocity of storm events, disappearing water supplies, and rising costs have made providing potable water and managing other water-related issues increasingly difficult for many communities. This course explores their many water issues and how they adapt their management practices to address constantly evolving water conditions.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Architectural finishes mimic the aesthetics and textures of natural materials without the cost, labor, weight, and maintenance challenges of finishes such as wood, stone, leather, and metals. This course discusses their performance characteristics, selection considerations, and proper installation techniques for interior and exterior commercial applications, including fire-rated assemblies and LEED®-certified projects.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Life-safety systems encompass both passive fire-protection features, like compartmentation and firestopping, and active ones, such as sprinklers and alarms. Portable fire extinguishers are an integral part of life-safety systems and must meet code-mandated number and placement requirements in most building types. This course looks at how fire extinguishers can be stored safely and securely in cabinets and addresses specification considerations. Also reviewed are the many options available to customize fire extinguisher cabinets so they are tailored to each project’s needs and design goals.

  • ( ~ 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.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Water is vital for life. As we move out of the pandemic, consumers are becoming more aware of their health and are taking steps to maintain healthy, active lifestyles, including drinking pure, clean water. This course explores the importance of staying hydrated and explains how dehydration can negatively affect health and wellness. The course also examines some of the most common contaminants in drinking water and the potential health effects of ingesting such water. Gain insight into how consumer lifestyle trends drive the need for healthier and more sustainable water in the kitchen and beyond and discover how consumers can meet these needs. Finally, learn about some of the newest water filtration systems available for cleaner, healthier, sustainable drinking water in the home.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course provides architects and designers with a comprehensive understanding of the transformative potential of modern gas fireplaces in contemporary design. It covers key technologies such as direct vent systems, frameless designs, natural heat release systems, and heat control innovations. Participants will recognize how to incorporate fireplaces as both functional heating solutions and architectural design elements. The course also reviews important safety features, including double-glass heat barriers, to ensure compliance with modern standards.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Concrete is a key construction material in modern society. As the foundation for much of what we make, it has a substantial environmental impact, mainly reflected in its carbon footprint. This course introduces best practices to make concrete more sustainable and lower the embodied carbon in concrete with its use and application.

  • ( ~ 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.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    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.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    It's time to stop thinking of only vertical pickets, horizontal rails, or glass panels when it comes to railing infill. Today's cable railing infill options are durable, versatile, attractive, low maintenance, easy to use, and virtually invisible. This course provides an overview of the advantages of stainless steel cable railing assemblies including frame design options and essential cable assembly components. It continues with a review of code requirements and concludes with a discussion of installation processes for custom cable assemblies.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This program introduces building retrofits as a method to achieve green building standards by adapting existing structures. While a building retrofit may have several types of interventions, effective air sealing improves the durability of the structure and occupant comfort, health, and safety. This course includes a detailed look at sources of air leakage and the various methods available to address this infiltration. Several real-world examples demonstrate the importance of identifying the source of air leakage, investigating existing conditions, and proper detailing.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Rolling doors are used in heavy-duty, medium-duty, and light-duty applications for a wide range of commercial, industrial, and construction environments. This course provides a review of the features, components, options, and applications of various types of commercial rolling door products.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Today’s business environment presents significant challenges for commercial roofing systems. Shortages and disruptions in the supply chain, coupled with a diminishing labor force, have led to uncertainty, inflation, and scheduling difficulties for many projects. However, these challenges also open doors for innovative solutions. This course explores the financial and environmental advantages of using a PVC roofing system. It also highlights the benefits of choosing a roofing system from a single supplier.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    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. The course also addresses code compliance in light of recent material changes, code changes, and additional testing.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    White roofs made of PVC (vinyl) can reflect three-quarters or more of the sun's rays and emit 70% or more of the solar radiation absorbed by the building envelope. Despite protecting and keeping buildings cool in all climates around the world for decades, misconceptions about the energy impact of cool roofs still exist. This course uses the fundamental science behind cool roofs to address alleged issues concerning the performance of cool roof products.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    There are many kinds of resin-based coatings for metal. The type of resin used plays an important role in determining a coating's durability and physical properties. This course discusses these coatings and their application techniques. It also discusses why the coatings may deteriorate and how to measure the performance of the coatings. The role that resin-based coatings perform in cool roofs is explored along with the standards that measure the sustainability of cool roofs. This course provides the information one needs to ensure that the coated product will perform as expected and provide a durable, long-lasting finish.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Dancers and performers require a safe performance environment that minimizes the risk of injury. Hard sports floors and multipurpose stages have a strong risk of causing severe dance injuries that can affect a performer’s career. Choosing the wrong type of floor also carries the risk of extra costs down the road if it requires replacement. Sprung floors (also known as floating floor systems) are specifically designed for dance and other performance needs and provide a safer space to work. This course looks at the advantages of sprung floors and how they are used in performance venues. 

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    One of the most complex and least understood areas where fire can propagate is at the perimeter of a multistory building. Fire can spread not only from floor to floor via the edge-of-slab/curtain wall intersections but also along the exterior building enclosure where untested, combustible components are often installed. This program outlines best design practices for providing fire protection for building occupants per ASTM E2307 and ASTM E2874.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course provides a comprehensive overview of quartz surfacing as a sustainable material in contemporary design. It examines the environmental impact, safety standards, and wide-ranging applications of quartz surfacing. The course focuses on manufacturing processes, performance characteristics, and the material’s contribution to sustainability, equipping participants with the knowledge to effectively utilize quartz surfacing in residential and commercial projects.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In today’s rapidly evolving world, safety is a critical factor in architectural design. This course examines how fenestration systems enhance building protection through bullet resistance, fortified glazing, and advanced barrier solutions. Learn how potential threats influence the selection of these systems and how they integrate seamlessly into architectural projects.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In this video series course, we cover common metal roofing installation considerations. The first video discusses typical metal roof penetrations and details for proper installation. The second video presents metal enhancement options and design and installation tips to prevent premature corrosion in marine environments. The final video explores the expansion and contraction of standing seam metal roofs and how points of fixity accommodate thermal movement.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Expansion or modification of electrical cabling is rarely considered yet occurs during the lifetime of most buildings. Expansion of in-wall cabling requires additional work, trades, and possibly electrical service interruption, but cable tray facilitates removal and addition of cabling. This course reviews two types of cable tray—ladder tray and wire mesh tray—their components, characteristics, and applications and code-related installation information.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Often the largest access point in a building, sectional door systems play a significant role in controlling energy costs and supporting sustainable design in residential and commercial buildings. This course explores the specification considerations and the different types of sectional garage doors, as well as their role in enhancing the thermal performance of homes and commercial buildings.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Gate and fencing systems can be both functional and decorative. 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.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Trash, recycling, and linen chutes must be designed, installed, and maintained to meet the 2019 NFPA 82 standard. This course addresses trash, recycling, and linen chutes and includes discussions on system components, accessory components, compactors and sorters, and meeting NFPA 82 requirements. The program also guides you through a typical installation of a chute system.

Displaying 1 - 25 of 588 results.

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