We are excited to host a free virtual educational webinar in November, but need your help.  Our speaker, Adam Ugliuzza, will be hosting an open forum, focusing on curtainwall details in real-world applications.  Send project-specific issues with an example picture or detail by October 31 to lhardman@airbarrier.org (redact sensitive information).  The webinar will be interactive, and […]

 Pitfalls and Challenges to Avoid in NFPA 285 Engineering Judgements Engineering Analysis is a necessary tool to provide the fire protection and safety of our buildings. The exponential number of wall assembly combinations and detailing of enclosure assemblies in the built environment prevents the opportunity to confirm fire performance through direct testing. This is especially […]

Moisture Defects in Buildings - A Sick Building Pandemic Poor air quality caused by water damage and mold is contributing to increasing health burdens on occupants of buildings of every type, construction and age...including new construction. Understanding and applying building science fundamentals along with considerations uniquely related to region, site, structure type, materials and construction […]

When Codes are in Conflict: Building Science and Life Safety in Wood Framed Construction Over time, changes in building codes have begun to challenge designers to meet life safety, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency requirements on wood-framed, mid-rise multi-family projects. When NFPA 13 sprinkler requirements are driving the design of the roof assembly, the […]

Masonry Thru-Wall Flashing and Key Interface Details Explore the continuity of water and air control layers in relation to masonry thru-wall flashing at critical interface details, including: base-of-wall, window sill, openings heads, shelf angle, veneer material transitions, and top-of-wall. Learning Objectives:  Understand masonry thru-wall flashing function and options  Realize how masonry thru-wall flashing coordinates with […]

Design Principles for Rainscreen Wall Systems The topic will discuss thorough understanding of the various components that lead to failure in Building Enclosures and how to prevent it with Rainscreen system solutions. The importance of structural/Hygrothermal design of wall systems and air barriers, vapor and thermal control in the walls will be presented. Owner/user benefits […]

Top Air Barrier Details for Commercial Construction It’s often been said that architecture is the synthesis of art and science, but the art of crafting a thoughtful and successful detail is often something that has to be learned on the job or at the school of hard knocks. This presentation will build on building science […]

Introduction to Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) for the Building Enclosure This course provides a complete overview of spray polyurethane foam (SFP) technology and applications for residential and commercial buildings. It covers a brief history, types of products and installation equipment. A review of chemical safety and environmental impact is provided, along with SPF performance for […]

Blown Away - Unmasking the Secrets of Whole Building Airtightness Testing Whole building airtightness testing has been a code compliance option in the International Energy Conservation Code and ASHRAE 90.1 for some time. That compliance option was rarely used and only became mandatory as part of a building owners' requirements, or a specific state or […]