Zonda - Resource Library

Nothing is driving greater change in the home building industry than energy efficiency, but prior to 2015 the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) didn’t address mechanical equipment such as furnaces and water heaters. The 2015 IECC now includes a new compliance path called the Energy Rating Index allowing builders more choices in how to meet the energy code. This course will take a closer look at how high efficiency propane equipment such as furnaces and water heaters provide flexibility in meeting 2015 IECC standards and help reduce a home’s HERS Index, in addition to helping projects gain points in above-code programs such as LEED and the National Green Building Standard.

This course will discuss how architects and business owners can achieve outstanding performance and low-cost operation by incorporating high-efficiency, low-emission propane appliances into commercial new builds or retrofits.

We will discuss the challenges of designing commercial buildings in rural areas, especially those that do not have natural gas service, and how propane can help to meet resilience and sustainability goals, and maximize health, wellness, and occupant comfort. In addition, this course will explore applications for propane in different commercial building types, as well as case studies where propane was used.

Wellness is a growing trend in many industries, including building design. This is especially true since the COVID-19 pandemic markedly disrupted how we work, learn, live, and play in the spaces we inhabit.

This course will analyze the growth of the wellness industry as it relates to the built environment and will introduce the learner to the WELL Building Standard, which is a rating system to help buildings and organizations deliver more thoughtful and intentional spaces. Concurrently, we will explore how hearth products such as electric fireplaces can be incorporated into commercial and residential design to enhance occupant health and well-being.

LEED, Net Zero, and Passive House structures contribute to global efforts to reduce energy consumption and mitigate climate change. Adopting principles espoused by LEED, Net Zero, and Passive House can lead, for instance, to water conservation, the prioritization of safer building materials, and lower operating and maintenance costs. Metal roofing products such as solar air heating panels, insulated metal panels, solar-ready roof systems, cool roofing, and above sheathing ventilation (ASV) technology can all contribute to net zero and passive design strategies as well as to the earning of LEED credits. This course will examine the design principles behind LEED, Net Zero, and Passive House and the ways in which metal building products can help architects, engineers, and builders achieve sustainability goals.

This On Demand CEU is a recorded presentation from a previously live webinar event. Architects, Specifiers, Interior Designers, and Building Science professionals all have a long history of specifying stone wool for their insulation and sound absorption needs. Fire resistance, sound resistance, water resistance, thermal resistance and dimensional stability are all features and benefits of stone wool. This presentation will provide learners with information regarding the features and benefits of using stone wool acoustical ceiling tiles. In addition, the course will provide basic information on acoustics as well as the acoustical challenges and resolutions faced in commercial buildings.