This program is registered with the AIA for 1 CEH hour and with the NAHB for 1 hour; it covers the basics of cellular PVC for moulding and trim. It shows the learner the anatomy of window surrounds made of cellular PVC, how to install and maintain the material, and finally architectural moulding and trim mistakes to avoid. Take the course.
- Posted:
- May 2012
- Subject(s):
- Molding Millwork and Trim
- Sponsor:
- Royal Building Products
This course is registered for 1 AIA CEH and will provide learners with knowledge of wood acetylation and an understanding of the numerous benefits of acetylated wood products. It looks at long-lasting performance benefits and describes how acetylated wood is a sustainable product that has been modified through a process that leaves no toxic substances in the wood. We will look at how the product has improved dimensional stability while maintaining the versatility, and workability of wood. Additionally, participants who are builders, trades people, designers, and architects may see a potential maintenance-cost savings for their clients and an environmental impact reduction because of the low maintenance requirements and improved durability of acetylated wood products. Take the course.
- Posted:
- May 2012
- Subject(s):
- Wood, Framing, Lumber
- Sponsor:
- Eastman Perennial Wood

Considerations for Choosing Kitchen Sinks
This program is registered with AIA for 1 CEH. When remodeling a kitchen or designing for new construction, sink choices are critical “appliances” to consider. Kitchen sinks also make auxiliary spaces such as an outdoor kitchen, a bar and prep area, or a laundry and pet grooming room, more efficient. Sink options have multiplied in the past 15 years, and knowing the wide variety of sizes, shapes and configurations will help to tailor your sink choices to individual needs. This program will focus on how to think about the selection of sinks and accessories when considering durability, function and style.
- Posted:
- May 2012
- Subject(s):
- Bath, Kitchen, Sinks
- Sponsor:
- Rohl
This program is registered for 1 HSW AIA hour. Universal Design is not a new concept; however, it is time for a paradigm shift. This course prompts the question – should I be offering Universal Design solutions to all of my clients regardless of age or ability? This material provides compelling reasons for recommending Universal Design beyond the status quo. No longer limited to ADA products and an institutional look, you are empowered to exceed expectations with this new worldview. Take the course.
- Posted:
- May 2012
- Subject(s):
- Universal Design
- Sponsor:
- Kohler
1 LU AIAThis article is registered for 1 HSW hour with AIA and was originally published in the 2012 march-april print and digital editions of residential architect magazine. If you don't receive the print edition you can visit www.residentialarchitect.com to find the march-april 2012 digital edition. Over the next 20 years the majority of the U.S. population will be over age 55. As we age we need to re-evaluate our physical and mental capacities, and our ability to live independently. Homes outfitted to suit needs at age 45 could be significantly different than what is needed at age 65 and older. This article shows that successful aging in place requires careful planning and that home environments should provide continued enjoyment and stimulation, but should also accommodate changing needs and enhance the quality of life. Universal Design strategies will help you reshape the homes, and lives, of independent individuals who want to age in their homes, where they are most comfortable. Take the course.
- Posted:
- April 2012
- Subject(s):
- Universal Design
- Sponsor:
- Milgard Windows & Doors
: This course is registered with AIA for 1 CEH. In recent years, masonry veneer producers have extended product diversification and created innovative styles to simulate many varieties of brick, stacked stone and natural stone in a wide variety of colors, styles and application methods. This course will identify the various types of masonry veneer, examine industry advancement, review how different types of manufactured stone veneer can complement various architectural styles, and will describe acceptable methods and details for installation of manufactured stone veneer. Take the course.
- Posted:
- April 2012
- Subject(s):
- Building Envelope, Stone Veneers
- Sponsor:
- Ply Gem

PVC 101: The Benefits and Uses of Cellular PVC Trim
This course is registered for 1 HSW hour with AIA and will look at the different types of PVC and their use and properties within the building industry. It will also look at the best design practices for the following materials: beaded ceiling, pre-fabricated corners, fabricated column wraps, window surrounds, skirting for homes, pergolas, soffit system, railing applications, fastening methods, painting PVC trim products and thermal expansion joint design. It will look at each of the markets where PVC can be used, ranging from residential jobs to historic preservation. Finally, the course will look at the different green properties of PVC.
- Posted:
- April 2012
- Subject(s):
- Building Envelope, Siding
- Sponsor:
- Versatex
This course is registered with AIA for 1 CEH. Vinyl siding products are the preferred exterior cladding material, in both new construction and remodeling projects because they have numerous advantages over other siding materials. Design preferences have increased the number of profiles and color choices. The sustainability of vinyl has proven significant, with products that include recycled content and environmentally friendly manufacturing procedures. Combine that with remarkable technical advances, and you have a product that looks great, is low-maintenance, and holds up to the elements. The extensive range of products, from wider profiles to vinyl siding with insulation to polypropylene-based injected molded shingles, has taken vinyl from a product associated with starter homes to the luxury home market. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2012
- Subject(s):
- Building Envelope, Siding
- Sponsor:
- Mastic
1 LU HSW/SD/AIACombined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, as the name implies, serve dual purposes. First, they use a propane or natural gas generator to create electricity. The electricity produced from the generator is used by the home, reducing energy costs. If more electricity is generated than is consumed, the power can be sold back to the grid through net metering available in most states. Simultaneously, the heat from the engine is captured and used to warm the building or create hot water, further reducing energy costs. CHP units have been used in Europe for years and are now becoming more popular in the U.S. This courses is registered for the following education credits: 1 HSW/SD hour, AIA; 1 NAHB hour, 1 NARI hour. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2012
- Subject(s):
- Building Performance, HVAC, Energy Efficiency
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education & Research Council
- Certification(s):
- NAHB, NARI
Building tastes reflect our times. When developers and designers plan to recreate the look of an historic home or neighborhood, or design distinctive homes in a contemporary, new way, traditionally-styled siding, trim, shutters and roofing styles can help bring the vision to life and preserve local character. You want the products you specify and/or install to be more sustainable than other products you might choose. Your challenge — and the focus of this educational unit — is to find materials that satisfy these three criteria — charming, durable and green — and specify those into projects from the ground up, including siding, shutters and roofing. This program is registered with AIA for 1 HSW/SD hour; with NAHB for 1 hour and with NARI for .1 CEU. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2012
- Subject(s):
- Sustainability, Building Envelope
- Sponsor:
- The Tapco Group