Insulation Learning Center

LIVE Advanced Testing and Analysis Demonstrates the Design Flexibility of Mineral Wool Continuous Insulation

As energy codes continue to push building envelopes to higher R-value performance, architects and designers are challenged with also managing the moisture flow within the envelope to minimize the risk of condensation and the potential for mold and corrosion. Advanced…

LIVE Asphalt Shingles: Types, Testing and Compliance

This course explains the basics of shingle types and construction, roof terminology and testing for compliance with applicable codes. The course also covers specific code requirements, code referenced standards and related test protocols, and proper installation. Design practices will be…

LIVE Building Acoustics: Making Architects Visions a Reality

This course is designed to provide an introduction to acoustics and will highlight the link between acoustics and the architects vision for a space at the design phase. Understanding how sound travels in buildings is crucial to creating a smart…

LIVE Cellular Glass in High Performance Roofs: Reducing Risk By Design

High-performing commercial roofs must be resilient and designed to perform over the long run, without compromising on the client's commitment to sustainability. Cellular glass insulation delivers a portfolio of performance attributes including impermeability, non-combustibility, long-term thermal performance, compressive strength, and…

LIVE Complete Masonry Veneer Wall Systems

In today’s high performance building market, specifying materials that work together as a complete wall system is more critical than ever. Systems can help designers meet new energy codes, reduce costs and improve building function and sustainability while making the…

LIVE Complete Wall Systems, Maintaining Continuous Insulation and WRB's at Transitions

This course provides an overview of wall layers; air control, moisture control, water drainage, and thermal performance. It discusses options for maintaining continuity at penetrations, transitions and terminations, considering sequencing, job site conditions, and installation methods. It reviews case studies…

LIVE Continuous Insulation: The Basics and Beyond

This course is aimed to define what exactly continuous insulation is, and the key benefits of using it. The course will also show participants how continuous insulation complies with building and energy code requirements within that field.

LIVE Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Insulation in High Performance Commercial Roofing

Commercial roofing systems are quite varied. As such, their performance expectations are varied, and their suitability for different applications vary. Certain types of high performance roofing systems require specific components, and performance standards to achieve energy efficient and durable life…

LIVE Fire Safety in High Rise Structures

One of the most complex and least understood areas where fire can propagate is at the perimeter of a multi-story building. Not only can fire spread from floor-to-floor via the edge-of-slab/curtain wall intersections but also along the exterior building enclosure…

LIVE High Performance Insulation in Commercial Roof Assemblies

Commercial roofing systems are quite varied. As such, their performance expectations are varied, and their suitability for different applications vary. Certain types of high performance roofing systems require specific components, and performance standards to achieve energy efficient and durable life…

LIVE Keeping the Lid On: Wind Resistance Design for PRMA Roofing Systems

Protected Roof Membrane Assemblies (PRMA) have unique design requirements since they are loosely laid, held in place with stone ballast, pavers, or vegetative materials. The International Building Code contains prescriptive requirements to guide design and specification of such systems. The…

LIVE NFPA 285: What We've Learned, What's Changed, and What We Thought We Knew

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…

LIVE Perimeter Insulation: When Structure Conflicts with Thermal Performance

When structural stability and thermal continuity collide, structure has historically taken precedence necessitating tradeoffs such as increased insulation in other areas or acceptance of energy loss and potential moisture damage. The foundation transition from below grade to masonry ledge to…

LIVE Pre-Cast Concrete: Energy Efficiency and Quality Without Compromising Creativity

Pre-Cast Concrete assemblies are often the design solution to tight timelines and practical installation. With the addition of insulation and a toolkit of accessories, designers can improve efficiency, quality, and aesthetic often beyond stick-built options. How do you integrate continuous…

LIVE Surviving & Thriving: What is Resiliency and How Do We Design for It?

Key findings from a recent study conducted by AIA with support from Owens Corning demonstrate that resiliency is a value shared across the design team. However, the interpretation of what resiliency actually means varies greatly based on factors such as…

LIVE The Benefits of Mineral Wool as a Continuous Insulation Solution

Insulation can help increase overall energy efficiency, minimize the spread of fire, manage risks associated with moisture and mold, and improve occupant comfort. When designing exterior wall assemblies, the type and placement of insulation is critical. To address thermal performance,…

LIVE Vegetative and Protective Membrane Roof Assemblies: What Lies Beneath

Protected Roof Membrane Assemblies and particularly Vegetative Roof Assemblies place extreme requirements on the components below the surface from waterproofing to insulation and everything in between. Each component must meet specific standards to achieve energy efficiency and durability. This course…