Construction Course Online
This construction fundamentals course explains how building systems and trades fit together from site preparation to turnover. VDCI's coursework covers soils, utilities, foundations and structures, followed by the enclosure, interior finishes, MEP systems and fire protection. The program develops construction vocabulary and an understanding of sequencing and materials across the whole building process.
What's included
- 100 hours of project-based instruction
- 644 training videos
- 2 additional elective courses
- Instructor support for questions during the course
- Bonus one-on-one training session
- Verified digital certificate of completion
- Instruction at an ACCET-accredited school
- 10 CEUs
Overview
A 100-hour survey of how buildings are actually assembled, covering the materials, systems, and vocabulary used across the industry and how trades hand off to each other from early site work through turnover. The first courses cover site preparation, soil conditions, utilities, earthwork, foundations, heavy equipment, and structural systems with their load considerations.
Later courses cover the building envelope, including moisture control, roofing, cladding, windows, and wall systems, then interiors and finish work, and finally MEP systems, fire protection, elevators, commissioning, and post-occupancy turnover. A construction materials course rounds out the sequence.
Who this course is for
People entering construction, engineering, architecture, or real estate development, and workers with field experience who want structured grounding in how the whole building process fits together.
Tuition & enrollment
Enroll with Virtual Design and Construction Institute, the course provider.
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Preview the course
Watch free previews and explore the lessons included with enrollment at VDCI.
Site Utilities & Foundation Construction Course Online
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Building Construction Overview
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
2:28
Explore the key players, contractual arrangements, codes, occupancy groups, construction types, CSI divisions, and major building elements in the building construction overview lesson.
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Delivery Systems Overview
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
8:40
Identify, select, and analyze delivery systems for construction projects.
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Material System Considerations
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
5:56
Consider cost, functionality, technical constraints, existing conditions, energy efficiency, green initiatives, aesthetics, local conditions, codes, zoning, seismic constraints, weather, climate, and density when choosing materials and systems for construction projects.
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Building Codes
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
1:05
Adopt and adhere to building codes established by the International Code Council to ensure public safety, health, and building quality.
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Occupancy Groups
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
3:22
Identify and differentiate the 10 main occupancy groups based on their specific safety requirements in construction.
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Construction Types
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
1:50
Consider occupancy group, construction type, and the presence of an automatic fire suppression system to determine square footage and height limitations for building design.
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Construction Specification Institute Divisions
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
1:01
Organize design solutions using CSI divisions for building construction, covering all aspects of the project systematically.
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Major Building Elements
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
1:04
Organize the project by major building elements: site work and utilities, foundation, structure, enclosure, MEP, finishes, specialties, conveyance, furnishings, and equipment.
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Building Construction Summary
Topic 1: Building Construction Overview
1:06
Analyze building components to understand design choices and construction considerations.
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Soils Overview
Topic 2: Soils and Subsurface Conditions
4:38
Learn about soils and subsurface conditions, identify soil types, understand soil stability, and analyze soil behavior.
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Soils Geotechnical Report
Topic 2: Soils and Subsurface Conditions
6:12
Analyze the geotech report for soil conditions and foundation recommendations.
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Soils Identifying Soil Types
Topic 2: Soils and Subsurface Conditions
1:57
Identify soil types to determine foundation type, drainage needs, backfill suitability, and compaction equipment requirements.
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Soils Stability
Topic 2: Soils and Subsurface Conditions
4:59
Identify soil properties and address potential issues for foundation stability.
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Soils Summary
Topic 2: Soils and Subsurface Conditions
1:02
Reviewing and summarizing the lesson on soils in preparation for mobilizing to the job site for construction work.
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Equipment Overview
Topic 3: Equipment
0:43
Learn about heavy equipment, lifts, and scaffold in this lesson.
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Equipment Scraper
Topic 3: Equipment
1:49
Scrapers are used to move soil on construction sites through a cycle of cutting, hauling, dumping, and returning.
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Equipment Dozer
Topic 3: Equipment
1:22
Operate a dozer to push large amounts of soil on construction sites.
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Equipment Excavator
Topic 3: Equipment
3:25
The excavator is a versatile piece of equipment used for trenching, excavating, and various other tasks on a construction site.
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Equipment Loader
Topic 3: Equipment
1:17
Loaders efficiently load material into trucks and move material on the job site over short distances.
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Equipment Skid Steer Backhoe
Topic 3: Equipment
1:29
Skid steers are versatile machines commonly used on job sites, offering multiple attachment options such as buckets, forks, sweepers, and augers.
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Equipment Grader
Topic 3: Equipment
1:28
Operate graders to provide accurate grading for parking lots or roads, controlled by skilled operators and GPS technology.
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Equipment Haul and Dump Vehicles
Topic 3: Equipment
2:25
Choose between 10-wheel, 18-wheel, side dump, belly dump, or live bottom dump vehicles based on job site size, material type, loading orientation, and haul route restrictions.
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Equipment Water Compaction Vehicles
Topic 3: Equipment
2:34
Water trucks are used for compaction and dust control, while compaction equipment options include pressure, kneading, vibration, or a combination, depending on soil type, with machinery such as steel drum rollers, sheep's foot rollers, plate compactors, pneumatic tire rollers, and large earth-moving equipment.
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Equipment Forklift Lift Scaffold
Topic 3: Equipment
2:02
Identify and operate different types of construction equipment like forklifts, aerial lifts, scissor lifts, scaffolds, hydromobiles, and swing stages.
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Clearing and Grubbing Overview
Topic 4: Clearing and Grubbing
4:25
Clear and grub the construction site by removing all organic material, structures, pavement, and utilities to make room for new building construction.
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Clearing and Grubbing Actions
Topic 4: Clearing and Grubbing
7:20
Clear the site, protect the public, control erosion, remove existing utilities, clear topsoil and trees, and conduct demolition if necessary.
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Site Utilities Overview
Topic 5: Site Utilities
2:33
Covering site utilities involves installing wet utilities (such as irrigation, stormwater, potable water, and sanitary sewer pipes), distinguishing between wet and dry utilities, and addressing trench techniques, safety, pipe installation, and underground marking tape usage.
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Site Utilities Trenches
Topic 5: Site Utilities
2:09
Protect trenches by sloping, benching, or using trench boxes to prevent collapses and ensure worker safety.
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Site Utilities Pipe Installation
Topic 5: Site Utilities
4:21
Inspect and install the pipe with proper bedding, haunch zone, and backfill to meet specifications and ensure structural integrity.
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Site Utilities Marking Tape
Topic 5: Site Utilities
1:42
Install underground marking tape to warn future excavators of buried utility lines, with detectable tape preferred for easy detection with a metal detector.
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Site Utilities Horizontal Boring
Topic 5: Site Utilities
3:14
Horizontal directional boring drills a hole underground without disturbing the surface, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution for crossing obstacles like roads or rivers.
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Site Utilities Wet Utilities
Topic 5: Site Utilities
5:25
Install different types of utilities including storm sewer, sanitary sewer, potable water, and irrigation pipe using appropriate materials and methods.
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Site Utilities Dry Utilities
Topic 5: Site Utilities
2:04
Install underground conduit for dry utilities, including power and fiber lines, in a trench, connect and fill with concrete for safety, and install warning tape.
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Site Utilities Other Utilities
Topic 5: Site Utilities
1:01
Install natural gas lines, chilled water supply and return, heating water supply and return, and steam in a central utility plant for the building.
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Site Utilities Summary
Topic 5: Site Utilities
0:49
Install pipe and underground marking tape, distinguish between wet and dry utilities, connect all utilities within 5 feet of the building footprint, and prepare for earthwork and retaining systems.
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Earthwork Overview
Topic 6: Earthwork and Excavation Support
3:55
Covering earthwork and excavation support, this phase of the project involves determining elevations, designing foundation systems, and implementing excavation support systems, including soil nailed shotcrete walls.
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Earthwork Mass Structural Excavation
Topic 6: Earthwork and Excavation Support
2:41
Differentiate between mass excavation and structural excavation, emphasizing the importance of proper terminology and equipment selection for efficiency and successful project execution.
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Earthwork Excavation Techniques 01
Topic 6: Earthwork and Excavation Support
6:24
Excavate using soldier beam and lagging as a temporary support system for the excavation.
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Earthwork Excavation Techniques 02
Topic 6: Earthwork and Excavation Support
6:19
Install soil-nailed shotcrete walls by excavating, drilling holes, placing rebar, filling holes with grout, spraying shotcrete, and installing bearing plates to resist lateral forces and support excavations.
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Earthwork Effects of Water
Topic 6: Earthwork and Excavation Support
1:40
Dewatering a job site with high groundwater levels requires planning, equipment, and permitting to treat and dispose of the excess water properly.
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Earthwork Excavation
Topic 6: Earthwork and Excavation Support
3:39
Excavate, balance, and manage excess soil for efficient earthwork operations on construction sites.
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Earthwork Excavation Challenges
Topic 6: Earthwork and Excavation Support
4:34
Identify excavation challenges: encountering boulders, navigating existing utilities, dealing with underground storage tanks, finding old foundations, managing contaminated soils, handling artifacts, addressing water issues, contending with weather conditions, excavating bedrock, and managing site congestion.
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Earthwork Summary
Topic 6: Earthwork and Excavation Support
1:33
Reach the bottom of the excavation, marking a crucial milestone in the project and eliminating potential risks, paving the way for the foundation work to commence.
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Foundations Overview
Topic 7: Foundations
3:51
Discuss foundation requirements and types, such as shallow and deep foundations, to ensure structural load transmission, prevent settling, and maintain economic and technical feasibility.
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Foundations Shallow Foundations
Topic 7: Foundations
5:43
Shallow foundations transfer loads from structures to the earth below through columns or walls, while mat slabs are used for large uniform loads or closely spaced columns.
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Foundations Deep Foundations 01
Topic 7: Foundations
6:36
Discussing deep foundations for transferring loads to rock or competent soil, including options such as end bearing piles, steel pipes, micropiles, caissons, and screw piles to provide adequate bearing capacity and support for structures.
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Foundations Deep Foundations 02
Topic 7: Foundations
7:01
Drill a hole using an auger or core barrel, remove soil, build rebar cage, lower it into the hole, fill with concrete, extend bar into pier or pilaster, drive pile down using a pile driving rig with hammer and cushion, repeat hammer strikes at high frequency to set pile, use excavator to spin screw pile into ground to reach bearing capacity.
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Foundations Summary
Topic 7: Foundations
1:12
Learn about foundation requirements, transferring loads into soil, and designing foundations efficiently and safely to avoid overdesigning and excessive costs.
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Concrete Overview
Topic 8: Concrete
2:23
Explore the versatility, advantages, and limitations of concrete, including its production, application, and potential pitfalls.
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Concrete Components
Topic 8: Concrete
5:44
Combine gravel, sand, cement, and water to create a well-graded concrete mix with varying performance options through different cement types and admixtures.
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Concrete Mixing and Placing 01
Topic 8: Concrete
4:36
Understand formwork, reinforce, mix ingredients, and order concrete from a supplier for construction projects.
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Concrete Mixing and Placing 02
Topic 8: Concrete
5:03
Perform concrete tests such as slump, temperature, air content, and compression strength; pour cylinders and test at 7, 14, and 28 days; vibrate and finish concrete; allow curing and strip forms; rub and patch exposed concrete for a finished look.
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Concrete Items to Avoid
Topic 8: Concrete
4:16
Avoid formwork failure, adding too much water, curing too fast, shocking or freezing the concrete, vibrating excessively, dropping concrete through rebar, pouring too fast, or pouring too slow to prevent quality and structural issues.
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Concrete Summary
Topic 8: Concrete
0:54
Reviewing various components and processes of concrete application, including mixing and placing, as well as highlighting key considerations to avoid.
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Grade Beams and Foundation Walls Overview
Topic 9: Grade Beams & Foundation Walls
8:50
The lesson covers the construction of gray beams and foundation walls, explaining their purpose, differences, and building sequence.
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Building A Grade Beam
Topic 9: Grade Beams & Foundation Walls
5:18
Build a concrete grade beam by setting up one side of the form, installing vertical and horizontal reinforcement, adding a void form for support, pouring concrete, and applying damp proofing and a foundation drain.
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Slab On Grade
Topic 9: Grade Beams & Foundation Walls
2:44
Install vapor retarder, trench utilities, place rebar, pour slab on grade, control cracks with joints, and install utilities before pouring slab.
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Grade Beams and Foundation Walls Summary
Topic 9: Grade Beams & Foundation Walls
0:41
Construct the perimeter, complete the grade beam or foundation walls, and finish with the slab on grade.
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Building Structure Course Online
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Structure Overview
Topic 1: Structures
5:00
Explore major structural systems in building construction, including concrete and steel, discuss variables considered in choosing a structural system, and appreciate the aesthetic and functional aspects of structures.
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Structure Frames
Topic 1: Structures
4:19
Structural systems in buildings stabilize lateral loads through bracing, core walls, shear walls, and moment connections.
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Structure Load Path
Topic 1: Structures
2:07
The load path through the structure distributes loads from the slab to the girders, then to the columns and down to the footing, resisting all building loads.
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Structure Bending 01
Topic 1: Structures
5:29
Observe bending of a member to see compressive and tensile forces, stress determined by distance from neutral axis, bending moment, and geometry affecting stress distribution.
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Structure Bending 02
Topic 1: Structures
3:20
Consider design factors such as span length, material selection, self-weight, functionality, and desired longer spans to optimize structural performance.
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Structure Options
Topic 1: Structures
2:38
Consider concrete, steel, masonry, or wood as structural material options for building design.
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Structure Variables
Topic 1: Structures
4:13
Consider cost efficiency, local conditions, technical feasibility, code restrictions, schedule restrictions, story-to-story height, exposed structure, large spans, future tenant changes, vibration, overall height, seismic considerations, and local trades when making a structural choice.
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Structure Common Choices
Topic 1: Structures
3:21
Generalize the structural system choices based on facility types such as apartment, arena, hotel, labs & hospitals, offices, parking garages, retail, schools, and high-rises.
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Structure Summary
Topic 1: Structures
1:01
Summarize the class by discussing frames, lateral loads, load paths, bending, structural shapes, spans, columns, structural options, facility types, and crane types for future discussions.
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Cranes Overview
Topic 2: Cranes
3:29
The lesson covers various types of cranes used in construction, including tower cranes, hydraulic cranes, crawlers, and specialty cranes, as well as crane safety and planning considerations for choosing the right crane for a project.
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Cranes Hydraulic
Topic 2: Cranes
3:23
Hydraulic cranes are truck-mounted, self-contained, stable with outriggers, have crane pads, counterweights, telescoping booms, luffing jibs, ball and hook, and revolve on a turntable bearing, making them highly mobile and versatile for various lifting tasks.
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Cranes Crawler
Topic 2: Cranes
1:50
Assemble a Lattice Boom crawler crane by trucking in the components, using an assist crane to erect the boom sections, installing the jib, hoist rope, and guy lines, and adding counterweights for balance.
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Cranes Tower
Topic 2: Cranes
5:34
Erect tower cranes by building foundations, stacking tower sections, installing counter jib, jib, counterweights, and lights.
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Cranes Self Raising
Topic 2: Cranes
1:25
A crane grows by adding segments using a hydraulic climbing system.
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Cranes Specialty Permanent
Topic 2: Cranes
1:42
Specialty cranes fit into tight spaces and provide a solution for lifting heavy materials, while permanent cranes like bridge and jib cranes offer flexibility in warehouses and factories, requiring structural engineering evaluation for installation.
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Cranes Safety
Topic 2: Cranes
3:43
Create pick plans for all crane lifts to ensure safety and prevent accidents.
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Cranes Summary
Topic 2: Cranes
0:46
Reviewing different types of cranes and discussing crane safety; moving on to building cast-in-place concrete structures.
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CIP Concrete Overview
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
4:21
Learn about cast-in-place concrete structures, a durable and fire-resistant material that allows for immediate construction after design completion, but is labor-intensive and challenging to modify.
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CIP Concrete Reinforcement
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
2:31
Identify compression and tension areas in a supported beam, reinforce with rebar for strength, and maintain continuous reinforcement for better load distribution.
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CIP Concrete Slab Options
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
8:15
Identify and select slab options based on facility type, load magnitude, and structural system performance.
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CIP Concrete Spans
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
1:00
Restructure spans by eliminating columns and increasing beam depth to accommodate longer spans efficiently using pre-stressing.
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CIP Concrete Prestressing
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
5:53
Pre-stress concrete to reduce cracking and increase load capacity.
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CIP Concrete Construction Sequence
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
5:19
Forming columns, pouring slabs, and repeating process for concrete structures in hospital project.
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CIP Concrete Shoring
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
3:17
Shoring supports wet concrete during construction, while reshoring redistributes excess load to lower floors until the concrete cures.
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CIP Concrete Creative Examples
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
0:45
Explore creative uses for concrete through examples of domes and thin shells, highlighting their structural integrity and design possibilities, such as the Seattle Kingdom dome.
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CIP Concrete Summary
Topic 3: Cast-In-Place Structure
0:54
Review the class on cast-in-place concrete structures and prepare for the next topic on pre-cast concrete fabrication.
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Precast Concrete Overview
Topic 4: Precast Concrete
3:50
The lesson covers precast concrete, including its advantages, challenges, and the process of manufacturing, transporting, and erecting precast concrete structures.
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Precast Concrete Function
Topic 4: Precast Concrete
2:27
Architectural precast and structural precast elements are manufactured in precast plants and then delivered to job sites for installation.
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Precast Concrete Shapes
Topic 4: Precast Concrete
3:28
Different standard precast shapes include columns, beams, slabs, walls, and stairs, which can be chosen for cost efficiency based on typical dimensions.
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Precast Concrete Delivery
Topic 4: Precast Concrete
0:34
Deliver precast elements to job sites from nearby plants due to road restrictions and size limitations.
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Precast Concrete Erection
Topic 4: Precast Concrete
3:26
Assemble precast by placing columns on pier caps, installing shims or nuts for elevation, sliding base plates over anchor bolts, welding members together, grouting base plates, adding bearing pads, and connecting columns with embedded steel plates.
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Precast Concrete Structural
Topic 4: Precast Concrete
2:24
View photos of various structures utilizing precast concrete elements, including parking garages, office buildings, and apartment complexes, showcasing the construction process and connections between precast components.
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Precast Concrete Architectural
Topic 4: Precast Concrete
2:39
Architectural precast complements structural precast for building enclosures, requiring coordination for embeds, welding, joint sealing, and interfacing, offering a single material solution for both structure and enclosure.
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Precast Concrete Summary
Topic 4: Precast Concrete
1:05
Learned about precast concrete, including its operations, transportation, installation, advantages, and disadvantages. Next, explore steel structures.
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History Of Steel 01
Topic 5: History of Steel
8:55
The History of Steel lesson traces the evolution of metals from copper to iron, with key milestones like the first all-metal structure built in the late 1700s and the transition to steel in the late 1800s.
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History Of Steel 02
Topic 5: History of Steel
5:35
Discussing the history of steel, from its early discovery to its widespread use in modern construction.
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Structural Steel Overview
Topic 6: Steel Structures
4:29
Covering the steel structures lesson, including steel shapes, steel erection process, slab-on-metal deck, concrete slab pouring, fireproofing options, cool steel structures, and miscellaneous metals.
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Structural Steel Shapes
Topic 6: Steel Structures
4:36
Identify and differentiate typical steel shapes used in construction based on specific designations and dimensions.
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Structural Steel Process
Topic 6: Steel Structures
1:42
The steel process involves designing the structure, detailing shop drawings, reviewing for conformity, fabricating steel, and erecting on site.
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Structural Steel Erection 01
Topic 6: Steel Structures
5:17
Erect structural steel by placing columns, connecting girders, installing metal deck, and pouring concrete for composite slabs.
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Structural Steel Erection 02
Topic 6: Steel Structures
5:43
Install rebar and wire mesh, pour concrete, warm up slab on metal deck.
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Structural Steel Fireproofing
Topic 6: Steel Structures
2:06
Fireproof the structure, including columns, girders, and slab on metal deck, to meet building code requirements and ensure safety.
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Structural Steel Structures
Topic 6: Steel Structures
0:42
Show large span steel structures in airports, demonstrating efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
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Structural Steel Miscellaneous Metals
Topic 6: Steel Structures
1:33
Install miscellaneous metals in a building for various functions, such as handrails, guardrails, stairs, supports for operable walls, bathroom partitions, countertop supports, rooftop screen walls, and ornamental metals.
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Structural Steel Summary
Topic 6: Steel Structures
0:55
Review structural steel and miscellaneous metals processes from design to completion.
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Other Systems Overview
Topic 7: Masonry, Tilt-Up Concrete
2:40
Discuss using masonry, tilt-up concrete, and wood as alternative material types for structural systems in commercial projects.
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Other Systems Masonry
Topic 7: Masonry, Tilt-Up Concrete
6:01
Discuss masonry, specifically concrete masonry units (CMU), as a structural material in construction, highlighting its durability, fire resistance, and cost-effectiveness compared to other materials.
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Other Systems Tilt Up Concrete
Topic 7: Masonry, Tilt-Up Concrete
4:06
Construct walls horizontally, lift and tilt into place, connect with embedded steel plates, seal joints, brace, and use for rapid, economical construction of box-shaped buildings like data centers and warehouses.
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Other Systems Wood
Topic 7: Masonry, Tilt-Up Concrete
3:06
Consider wood construction for its strength, weight, and availability, but be mindful of commercial building code limitations due to combustibility and explore new fire-resistant wood solutions for larger projects.
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Other Systems Summary
Topic 7: Masonry, Tilt-Up Concrete
0:39
Summarize the lesson on structural types beyond concrete and steel and prepare for the structure summary in the next class.
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Structure Summary Overview
Topic 8: Structures Summary
3:39
Summarize the structural systems and materials discussed in the lessons.
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Structure Summary CIP Concrete
Topic 8: Structures Summary
2:28
Summarize the advantages and disadvantages of cast-in-place concrete, including readily availability, durability, labor intensity, self-weight, and weather susceptibility.
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Structure Summary Precast Concrete
Topic 8: Structures Summary
1:49
Construct precast concrete rapidly, ensure high quality, durability, and fire resistance but face challenges such as long lead times, transportation issues, hoisting requirements, distance-related costs, limited changes.
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Structure Summary Steel
Topic 8: Structures Summary
2:14
Steel offers rapid construction on site, precise fabrication, long-span capabilities, ductility for seismic zones, and easier changes but faces challenges with lead times, fire susceptibility, transportation, and vibration.
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Structure Summary Common Structure Choices
Topic 8: Structures Summary
3:36
Identify suitable materials for various building types based on common structural choices.
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Structure Summary Examples
Topic 8: Structures Summary
1:08
Utilize multiple construction systems to expedite project schedules and maximize efficiency.
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Structure Summary Sequence After Structure
Topic 8: Structures Summary
4:44
Backfill around foundation walls to allow close work on building, consult structural engineer for diaphragm design to resist lateral loads, progress multiple floors before backfilling, slope backfill away from structure, apply fireproofing after concrete slabs, install MEP trades, interior framing, and enclosure after structure completion.
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Structure Summary
Topic 8: Structures Summary
1:06
Review advantages and disadvantages of building materials, discuss building types, and prepare for enclosure work.
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Building Enclosure Course Online
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Enclosure Overview
Topic 1: Enclosure Overview
5:27
Explore the building enclosure system and its components in the construction process.
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Enclosure Components Requirements
Topic 1: Enclosure Overview
7:51
Design and construct an enclosure system to meet requirements such as keeping water out, controlling heat, managing vapor drive, preventing air leakage, controlling natural light, resisting wind forces, adjusting to movement, resisting fire, providing security, weathering gracefully, and creating a favorable first impression.
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Enclosure Water Infiltration
Topic 1: Enclosure Overview
5:15
Identify sources of water infiltration and implement permanent solutions to prevent water damage.
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Enclosure Control Heat
Topic 1: Enclosure Overview
3:48
Learn how to control heat through understanding how heat transfers and implementing strategies to reduce conduction, convection, and radiation in building enclosures.
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Enclosure Control Vapor Drive
Topic 1: Enclosure Overview
8:26
Focus on controlling vapor drive in wall assemblies by installing a vapor retarder to prevent condensation and potential moisture-related issues like mold and degradation of insulation and structural components.
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Enclosure Summary
Topic 1: Enclosure Overview
2:30
Next, explore exterior wall types such as cold-form steel-framed walls and curtain walls, followed by roof types, windows, and doors in upcoming lessons.
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CFSS Exterior Walls Overview
Topic 2: Cold-Formed Steel Studs
3:35
Discuss cold form steel stud exterior walls, their components, and applications in building construction.
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CFSS Material
Topic 2: Cold-Formed Steel Studs
2:10
Steel studs are used instead of wood because they are light, durable, non-combustible, and resist decay and insects, making them ideal for construction.
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CFSS Framing Options
Topic 2: Cold-Formed Steel Studs
3:35
Compare and choose between infill framing and bypass framing for exterior wall construction based on advantages and disadvantages.
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CFSS Bypass Framing 01
Topic 2: Cold-Formed Steel Studs
6:44
Construct exterior walls by installing deflection clips, attaching steel studs, adding sheathing and insulation, applying weather barriers, and finishing with cladding.
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CFSS Bypass Framing 02
Topic 2: Cold-Formed Steel Studs
9:07
Install exterior sheathing, rigid insulation, weather barrier, cladding, bridging, utilities, bat insulation, vapor retarder, and drywall for the bypass framing assembly.
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CFSS Infill Framing
Topic 2: Cold-Formed Steel Studs
3:11
Install infill framing between slabs, ensuring proper gap for deflection, followed by installation of gypsum board, insulation, weather barrier, and cladding, and finish with bat insulation, vapor retarder, and interior gyp board. Inspections are required throughout the process to verify proper installation.
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CFSS Examples
Topic 2: Cold-Formed Steel Studs
6:28
Show examples of exterior walls, discuss sequencing, consider safety and coordination, address access methods like scaffolding and hoists, mention leave-out bays, prefabrication as a time-saving measure, and different materials and methods used in construction.
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CFSS Summary
Topic 2: Cold-Formed Steel Studs
0:47
Reviewing and summarizing cold form steel stud exterior walls, framing options, components, and examples, focusing on cladding options in the next lesson.
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Cladding Overview
Topic 3: Cladding
1:47
Discussing the installation of cladding materials such as metal panels, brick, stone, and stucco for the exterior wall with cold form metal framing.
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Cladding Metal Panels
Topic 3: Cladding
3:25
Install metal panels on Z-gurts over exterior gypsum board, with rigid insulation and weather barrier for a weather-tight finish.
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Cladding Brick Veneer
Topic 3: Cladding
9:08
Install relief angles, brick ties, insulation, weather barrier, and brick with mortar to create a brick veneer on the structure.
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Cladding Stone Veneer
Topic 3: Cladding
2:24
Install stone veneer by shaping and placing each unique stone on the wall, following the process of masonry relief angle, exterior jipboard, brick ties, weather barrier, rigid insulation, and weeps, resulting in a durable and visually appealing product that can last for a century.
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Cladding Stucco
Topic 3: Cladding
1:28
Install metal lath, apply base coat of cement plaster, then finish with final coat for stucco cladding.
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Cladding Summary
Topic 3: Cladding
1:01
Complete the assembly of steel studs, exterior jipboard, rigid insulation, weather barrier, and cladding to create a weather-resistant, thermal, and acoustical building envelope.
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Curtain Wall Overview
Topic 4: Curtain Wall
2:41
Learn about curtain walls, an exterior wall that is non-load-bearing, supported by the structure, typically made of aluminum frames, glass, and metal panels, and often one of the costliest scopes in construction projects.
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Curtain Wall Storefront
Topic 4: Curtain Wall
4:23
Reviewing storefront systems, including differences from curtain walls, limitations in size and wind load capacity, standard depths, material options, installation process, and water management features.
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Curtain Wall Types
Topic 4: Curtain Wall
2:17
Discussing curtain wall construction, including stick-built and unitized systems, for buildings with multiple floors and large vertical spans.
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Curtain Wall Stick Built
Topic 4: Curtain Wall
6:18
Stick-built curtain wall systems consist of dead load clips, mullions, transoms, vision glass, spandrel panels, thermal spacers, pressure plates, beauty trims, and sealants, with water collection and weeps for shedding water. Additional steel can be inserted into aluminum tubes for lateral resistance.
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Curtain Wall Unitized
Topic 4: Curtain Wall
9:21
Install unitized curtain wall panels efficiently and securely using embedded channels and anchor plates for precise alignment and adjustment.
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Curtain Wall Examples
Topic 4: Curtain Wall
2:29
Examine examples of finished curtain wall projects, including structural glazing and precast concrete installations, to understand design and construction techniques.
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Curtain Wall Structural Glass
Topic 4: Curtain Wall
1:13
Summarize structural glass wall systems with no mullions, utilizing tempered glass for load resistance and point-supported with stainless steel spider fittings, popular in Europe and offering an alternative option of using tempered glass as the frame itself.
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Curtain Wall Summary
Topic 4: Curtain Wall
1:09
Reviewing storefront systems, curtain wall options, and structural glass walls in this lesson, we progressed towards completing the exterior wall systems, preparing for the next step of installing the roof.
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Roofing Overview
Topic 5: Roofing
2:48
Discussing the importance of installing the roof promptly, considering weather conditions and potential water damage risks, coordinating with various parties, and explaining the different types of roofs.
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Roofing Requirements
Topic 5: Roofing
2:22
Roofs must protect from weather, have thermal and acoustical insulation, control air leakage and vapor drive, resist temperature swings, reflect the sun, shed water quickly, be watertight, support snow, water, and ice loads, and provide access to equipment or occupancy.
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Roofing Safety
Topic 5: Roofing
4:32
Summarize roof safety measures, including using fall protection systems like personal arrest systems or fall restraint systems, installing guardrails and warning lines, ensuring access safety, preventing falling objects, addressing fire safety, and preventing heat-related injuries.
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Roofing Types
Topic 5: Roofing
4:16
Differentiate between low sloped and steep roofs based on pitch, functionality, material choices, and safety precautions.
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Roofing Common Choices
Topic 5: Roofing
8:01
Compare and analyze different roofing types based on cost, lifespan, maintenance requirements, and color choices.
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Roofing Steep Roof
Topic 5: Roofing
7:40
Install steep roof structure with steel columns and girders, bar joists, metal deck, roof insulation, coverboard, flashing, waterproof membrane, standing seam metal roof panels, clay tile, asphalt shingles, or slate shingles. Manage water with gutters, downspouts, and snow fences.
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Roofing Low Slope 01
Topic 5: Roofing
7:24
Install roof insulation, crickets, cover board, and roofing material on low-slope roofs such as EPDM or TPO systems.
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Roofing Low Slope 02
Topic 5: Roofing
3:37
Flood test low slope roof, consider ballast finish, install roof pavers, avoid skylights, explore solar and green roof options, manage roof temperatures with lighter colors to reduce thermal expansion and cooling loads.
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Roofing Summary
Topic 5: Roofing
0:55
Install doors and windows to complete the enclosure of the structure after finishing the roofing process.
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Doors Overview
Topic 6: Doors, Frames & Hardware
2:54
Reviewing doors, frames, and hardware submittals for projects builds character and appreciation for the planning required. Doors fall under CSI Division 8 openings, with various installation options based on project size and complexity. Careful planning and detailing of doors is crucial to avoid issues later. The lesson will cover door requirements, terminology, material options, specifications, and different door types, including ballistic and blast-resistant doors.
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Doors Requirements
Topic 6: Doors, Frames & Hardware
5:59
Understand the requirements of a door, including egress, swing direction, ease of opening, force required, undercutting, fire and smoke resistance, weather protection, insulation, air leakage control, temperature resistance, movement tolerance, water shedding, security, and aesthetics.
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Doors Terminology
Topic 6: Doors, Frames & Hardware
7:45
Identify door swing directions based on left or right hand grab and push or pull.
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Doors Material Types
Topic 6: Doors, Frames & Hardware
2:46
Identify different material types of doors and frames, including steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and wood options, commonly used in commercial construction.
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Doors Other Specifications
Topic 6: Doors, Frames & Hardware
4:43
Specify door size, type, fire rating, hardware, and other requirements for proper coordination and installation.
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Doors Types
Topic 6: Doors, Frames & Hardware
1:54
Identifying and categorizing different door types and specifications for submittal and scheduling to manufacturers to ensure proper coordination on construction projects.
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Doors Summary
Topic 6: Doors, Frames & Hardware
0:59
Reviewing different door requirements, terminology, materials, specifications, and types, preparing for window installation in the next lesson.
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Windows Overview
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
2:37
Covering the history and significance of windows, glass, and glazing in construction, this lesson will discuss window requirements, frame terminology, material options, glass types, installation methods, and interior glazing.
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Windows Requirements
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
4:51
Learn about window requirements to ensure they provide natural light, outside views, and control heat transfer while shedding water, resisting fire, and tolerating temperature swings.
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Windows Terminology
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
2:01
Define window components, including glass, frame, and terminology such as sash, sill, transom, and mullion, commonly used in commercial applications.
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Windows Materials
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
4:27
Compare window frame materials including aluminum, hollow metal, wood, and vinyl, considering factors like durability, maintenance, and cost, with aluminum being the most expensive option.
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Windows Glass Types
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
9:22
Heat-treated glass provides increased strength in bending and impact by reheating and then quenching annealed glass, while tempered glass offers four times the bending strength of annealed glass and breaks into small, smooth pellets, making it suitable for applications like glass-supported handrails or elevators.
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Windows Glass Choices
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
3:13
Compare different types of glass based on cost, bending strength, and breakage fragments.
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Windows Installation
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
2:49
Install windows by hoisting them into the rough opening, mounting them with steel clips, shimming as needed, caulking and sealing for air infiltration, wrapping with drywall, finishing with a sill, and testing for water infiltration before completion.
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Windows Operable
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
1:16
Automate operable windows for ventilation and control in building automation system, while ensuring fire safety considerations.
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Windows Sun Shades
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
1:05
Designing and installing a sunshade can help reduce glare, UV damage, and solar heat gain while optimizing natural light in a building.
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Windows Washing
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
0:48
Consider window washing in the design of the building to ensure easy access for cleaning.
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Windows Interior Glazing
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
1:25
Discussing the glazing process for interior windows and doors, including the use of quarter-inch float glass, stops to hold the glass in place, and the potential need for separate contracts for exterior and interior glazing during large projects or busy trade periods.
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Windows Summary
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
0:39
Identified window requirements, terminology, materials, glass types, installation process, and interior glazing in commercial settings.
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Enclosure Summary
Topic 7: Windows, Glass & Glazing
2:48
Complete the enclosure phase of construction, moving on to interior partitions and finishes.
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Interiors & Finish Work Course Online
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Partitions Overview
Topic 1: Partitions
2:22
Explore interior partitions by discussing walls, steel stud framing, in-wall rough, drywall installation, and finishing.
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Partitions Types Fire
Topic 1: Partitions
6:11
Differentiate between firewalls, fire barriers, and fire partitions based on their structural requirements and fire resistance ratings, and explain the importance of fire caulking and other sealing methods to prevent the spread of fire in buildings.
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Partitions Fire Rating
Topic 1: Partitions
2:03
Determine fire resistance ratings using prescribed testing procedures from ASTM or UL and consult approved assemblies for specified ratings.
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Partitions Types Smoke
Topic 1: Partitions
1:54
Restrict smoke spread with smoke barriers and partitions, requiring sealed penetrations, smoke dampers, and tight door tolerances.
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Partitions Types Other
Topic 1: Partitions
1:48
Seal joints, extend partition, insulate wall, and seal penetrations to create a sound partition for reduced sound transmission between rooms.
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Partitions Framing Steel Studs
Topic 1: Partitions
7:22
Discussing steel stud sizes, advantages, and disadvantages, highlighting the fire resistance, lightness, resistance to warping, and pre-cut holes for easy installation.
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Partitions MEP Roughing
Topic 1: Partitions
3:30
Install MEP systems, including plumbing and electrical, behind walls before drywall hanging, using wood blocking or metal backing for support. Subcontractors mark completed work with colored spray paint or digital tracking for easy identification. Insulate partitions before drywall installation.
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Partitions Drywall Types
Topic 1: Partitions
2:28
Discuss different Drywall options, such as regular gypsum board, Type X Drywall, abuse-resistant Drywall, mold-resistant Drywall, and sag-resistant Drywall, for various applications in commercial construction.
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Partitions Drywall Installation
Topic 1: Partitions
2:05
Install drywall by hanging it on the wall using screws to fasten it to the studs and minimize gaps around penetrations, ensuring proper fire and water resistance, and completing the corridor for finishing.
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Partitions Drywall Finish
Topic 1: Partitions
6:45
Apply joint compound, set tape in joints, sand, and repeat to achieve desired drywall finish levels, from basic tape-only to multi-coat level five finish for high-end facilities.
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Partitions Summary
Topic 1: Partitions
0:49
Complete the interior partition work to reach a major milestone in the project before moving on to interior finishes.
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Finishes Overview
Topic 2: Finishes
1:22
Discuss finishes including paint, ceilings, flooring, and casework installation in relation to building enclosure and completion.
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Finishes Paint
Topic 2: Finishes
3:49
Prime coat the walls, apply two coats of paint, and touch up any damaged areas before final inspection.
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Finishes Ceiling
Topic 2: Finishes
7:28
Install ceiling grid, tie in MEP systems, run ceiling tiles, and complete suspended ceiling.
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Finishes Acoustic Wall Panels
Topic 2: Finishes
0:30
Install acoustical wall panels to reduce sound and echo in the space by wrapping cloth around a fiberglass panel.
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Flooring Testing Preparation
Topic 3: Flooring
5:01
Prepare the concrete substrate for flooring by bead blasting, conducting relative humidity and moisture vapor emission rate tests, checking pH levels, and conducting bond tests before installation.
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Flooring VCT
Topic 3: Flooring
0:45
Install Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT) flooring, which is a cost-effective and resilient option that comes in one foot by one foot tiles adhered with adhesive, typically centered in the room and needing stripping and waxing after installation.
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Flooring Carpet
Topic 3: Flooring
0:57
Choose between sheet carpet or carpet tile, adhere to the concrete using adhesives, and finish with rubber base or resilient base at the wall for installation.
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Flooring Seamless Sheet Vinyl
Topic 3: Flooring
1:04
Consider specifying seamless sheet vinyl for hygienic spaces like labs or hospitals to prevent bacteria growth and ensure easy maintenance.
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Flooring Epoxy
Topic 3: Flooring
0:39
Apply epoxy flooring for a seamless and durable solution commonly found in labs, hospitals, and manufacturing plants, with coved bases and vertical transitions for a polished look.
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Flooring Laminate
Topic 3: Flooring
0:56
Laminate flooring is a cost-effective and durable alternative to wood flooring, made up of different layers including a decorative image layer and wear layer.
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Flooring Rubber
Topic 3: Flooring
0:31
Rubber flooring absorbs impact and protects concrete in athletic facilities.
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Flooring Tile
Topic 3: Flooring
3:28
Install floor and wall tile using proper substrate preparation, thinset mortar, and grout application for a durable and resilient finish.
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Flooring Terrazzo
Topic 3: Flooring
2:27
Install terrazzo flooring by bead blasting or shot blasting the concrete, leveling low spots, sealing and reinforcing cracks, placing metal dividing strips, mixing and applying terrazzo with marble chips or glass, grinding to a flat surface, and finishing with a wash and polish.
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Flooring Sealed Polished Concrete
Topic 3: Flooring
0:49
Consider sealed and polished concrete flooring as a cost-effective option, providing a durable and clean finish, commonly used in warehouses and garages, but not suitable for higher-end scenarios.
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Flooring Summary
Topic 3: Flooring
0:41
Summarize the flooring options, considering various factors such as cost, durability, acoustics, and comfort, to guide the decision-making process in construction.
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Casework
Topic 4: Casework & Millwork
1:35
Coordinate the installation of casework with other trades to ensure proper mounting and utility connections.
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Millwork
Topic 4: Casework & Millwork
0:46
Specify wood panels and trim for architectural millwork, including wood veneer on steel structures and wood mailboxes in office corridors.
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Finishes Summary
Topic 4: Casework & Millwork
0:32
Install specialties and move in furniture.
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Specialties Furnishings Overview
Topic 5: Specialties
1:30
Discussing specialties and furnishings, including signage, bathroom accessories, folding panel partitions, wall and corner guards, display boards, fire protection specialties, and lockers, followed by shades, blinds, and office furniture in the architectural finishing process.
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Specialties Signage
Topic 5: Specialties
1:12
Specify, order, and install various types of signage, including room numbers, directional signs, directories, display signage, and exterior signs, to ensure efficient navigation and communication within the building.
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Specialties Toilet Compartments
Topic 5: Specialties
2:09
Specialties contractor installs toilet compartments or bathroom partitions, offering options like metal, plastic, plastic laminate, solid phenolic, or FRP for durability and cost effectiveness.
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Specialties Lockers
Topic 5: Specialties
0:43
Install lockers in locker rooms, schools, offices, or bathrooms using steel or other materials like plastic laminate after tiling is complete.
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Specialties Toilet Bath Accessories
Topic 5: Specialties
1:12
Specialty contractor installs toilet and bath accessories including grab bars, utility shelves, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers, shower curtain rods, robe hooks, shower seats, benches, and mirrors towards the end of the project.
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Specialties Folding Panel Partitions
Topic 5: Specialties
4:53
Install folding panel partitions or operable walls by hanging panels on overhead tracks, securing seals to walls and floor, and testing for functionality, ensuring proper coordination with miscellaneous metals and structural elements.
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Specialties Wall Corner Guards
Topic 5: Specialties
0:41
Specify wall and corner guards, choosing between plastic or stainless steel based on budget and aesthetic preference.
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Specialties Display Boards
Topic 5: Specialties
1:07
Display boards, including dry erase, chalkboards, and tack boards, are commonly used for communication and organization, with glass boards currently being a trendy option in the market.
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Specialties Fire Protection
Topic 5: Specialties
3:26
Summarize fire protection specialties, including the installation and requirements for fire extinguishers based on code regulations and safety standards.
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Furnishings Blinds Shades
Topic 6: Furnishings
2:13
Specify and install blinds and shades, typically aluminum horizontal window blinds or roller shades, in commercial settings, considering light filtering, light block options, and operation methods.
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Furnishings Furniture
Topic 6: Furnishings
1:23
Install furniture items such as cubicles, conference room tables, lobby furniture, and outdoor furniture to complete the building project.
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Specialties Furnishings Summary
Topic 6: Furnishings
0:53
Covered various specialties in CSI Division 10, completed interior architectural work, and will address paving, hardscape, and landscape next.
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Paving Hardscape Landscaping Overview
Topic 7: Paving
2:58
Discuss paving, hardscape, landscaping, and other site considerations in the exterior improvements phase of the project.
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Paving Curb Gutter
Topic 7: Paving
2:17
Construct and install curb and gutter for paving project to manage water flow.
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Paving Cross Pans
Topic 7: Paving
1:08
Construct crosspans using concrete with proper water flow lines and reinforcement based on local jurisdiction standards.
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Paving Sub Grade
Topic 7: Paving
3:53
Prepare final grade and compact subgrade for paving of parking lot.
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Paving Asphalt
Topic 7: Paving
3:13
Pave asphalt with a typical cross section of 4.5 inches thick, including subgrade and base and surface coats.
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Paving Process
Topic 7: Paving
2:29
Paving process involves dumping hot asphalt, spreading it evenly with an auger, compacting with a roller, and verifying compaction with a density test.
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Paving Base Surface Courses
Topic 7: Paving
0:47
Show the base course and surface course in sequence with manhole cover considerations.
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Paving Striping
Topic 7: Paving
0:37
Complete the asphalt pavement by striping the surface, ensuring to paint early in the morning before the asphalt temperature rises, moving on to hardscape.
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Hardscape Walls
Topic 8: Hardscape
1:12
Focus on hardscape walls, particularly retaining walls and seating walls, which can be formed up and poured like in concrete structures class, or built using large foam blocks covered in concrete for a cost-effective alternative.
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Hardscape Retaining Walls
Topic 8: Hardscape
3:25
Identify and describe three main types of retaining walls: cast-in-place concrete, MSE wall, and piling cantilever wall.
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Hardscape Retaining Wall Examples
Topic 8: Hardscape
4:42
Reviewing hardscape retaining wall examples, including cast-in-place concrete walls, piling cantilever walls, and mechanically stabilized earth walls.
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Hardscape Sidewalks
Topic 8: Hardscape
0:56
Pour concrete for sidewalks, usually 4 inches thick but can range from 4 to 6 inches, with welded wire fabric, control joints every 5 feet, and expansion joints every 20 feet, minimal forms required, evenly spaced control joints, tooled and broom finish for traction.
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Hardscape Driveways
Topic 8: Hardscape
1:17
Install driveways with concrete paving, including wire mesh for reinforcement and control joints to minimize cracking, ensuring proper grading to prevent water infiltration.
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Hardscape Stairs
Topic 8: Hardscape
0:55
Construct hardscape stairs using epoxy-coated bars for corrosion resistance, tooling in grooves for traction, and incorporating geofoam for large staircases, with bike ramps for easier bike access in urban settings.
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Hardscape Brick Pavers
Topic 8: Hardscape
2:20
Install brick pavers for a visually appealing walkway, ensuring proper base preparation to prevent future maintenance issues.
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Enrollment required
Landscaping Irrigation
Topic 9: Landscaping
2:20
Install irrigation system using reclaimed or potable water with proper pipe slopes for drainage and winterization to prevent freezing damage.
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Enrollment required
Landscaping Sod Seed
Topic 9: Landscaping
1:10
Install irrigation system, fine grade site, add topsoil or organics, choose between sod or seed, apply temporary irrigation for native grass, install permanent irrigation for regular grass.
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Landscaping Trees Plants
Topic 9: Landscaping
0:29
Consider planting trees and plants in your landscaping design, ensuring proper bracing and maintenance by the contractor to guarantee their establishment and growth.
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Enrollment required
Other Site Considerations
Topic 9: Landscaping
1:11
Install light poles, site furnishings, fencing, handrails, guardrails, and signage to complete the site.
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Enrollment required
Paving Hardscape Landscaping Summary
Topic 9: Landscaping
0:51
Reviewing paving, hardscape, retaining walls, site walls, paths, driveways, and landscaping is complete; the building is now ready for turnover, with MEP systems, including mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression, next on the agenda before finalizing the project.
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Fundamentals of MEP for Buildings Course Online
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Thermal Comfort Overview
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
3:22
Covering mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, the course will delve into factors affecting thermal comfort, such as temperature, humidity, air movement, mean radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and clothing.
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Enrollment required
Thermal Comfort Definition
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
3:35
Achieve thermal comfort by ensuring occupants are satisfied with their environment, balancing temperature, humidity, and airflow.
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Thermal Comfort Factors
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
6:30
Determine factors influencing thermal comfort, such as temperature, relative humidity, air velocity, activity level, metabolic rate, and clothing.
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Enrollment required
Thermal Comfort Air Temperature
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
1:34
Identify optimal air temperature ranges for different activities like working out, office work, watching TV, showering, and sleeping.
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Enrollment required
Thermal Comfort Relative Humidity
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
1:31
Maintain optimal air temperature and relative humidity levels to ensure comfort and prevent health issues in buildings.
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Enrollment required
Thermal Comfort Air Movement
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
0:56
Optimize air velocity to minimize heat loss and discomfort for occupants by ensuring a constant flow of air at 20 feet per minute and avoiding turbulent airflow.
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Enrollment required
Thermal Comfort Radiation
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
7:02
Calculate the mean radiant temperature to determine the air temperature needed for thermal comfort.
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Enrollment required
Thermal Comfort Metabolic Rate
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
2:31
Design building HVAC systems based on occupants' metabolic rates to ensure thermal comfort.
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Thermal Comfort Clothing
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
3:30
Determine clothing insulation levels using clo values for thermal comfort in building design.
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Thermal Comfort Examples
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
2:22
Predict and design factors to achieve thermal comfort by controlling clothing, metabolic rate, and environmental conditions, based on ASHRAE guidelines.
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Thermal Comfort ASHRAE 55 Survey
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
1:28
Conduct a thermal comfort survey based on ASHRAE guidelines to evaluate occupant satisfaction and adjust building operations accordingly to achieve 80% thermal comfort.
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Thermal Comfort Summary
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
0:51
Learned about thermal comfort factors and their importance in future mechanical equipment and systems decisions. Next step: explore indoor air quality.
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Indoor Air Quality Overview
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
3:07
Explore the importance of indoor air quality in HVAC design, address common pollutants, and emphasize the need for coordination among design, construction, and maintenance teams to ensure healthy indoor environments.
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Indoor Air Quality The Issue
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
2:26
Improve indoor air quality in buildings to prevent negative health effects.
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Indoor Air Quality Pollutant Sources
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
8:05
Identify, control, and reduce indoor air pollutants from various sources like formaldehyde, VOCs, asbestos, lead, fuel burning systems, cleaning products, bacteria, mold, viruses, pollen, dust mites, animal dander, radon, pesticides, smoke, dust, and exhaust to improve indoor air quality.
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Indoor Air Quality The Solution
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
4:20
Eliminate pollutants, improve ventilation, follow ASHRAE guidelines, protect building materials during construction.
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Enrollment required
Indoor Air Quality Summary
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
1:08
Discussing indoor air quality, including health issues, pollutant sources, and possible solutions, was covered, preparing for the next topic on mechanical systems.
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Mechanical HVAC Overview
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
4:48
Learn about mechanical systems, including HVAC and plumbing, in this comprehensive course covering HVAC equipment, typical systems, major equipment pieces, air distribution, chilled water and heating water loops, central utility plants, controls, and test and balance.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical HVAC Equipment Purpose
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:25
Understand thermal comfort and indoor air quality, calculate heating and cooling loads, and consider humidity, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide levels for HVAC system design.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical HVAC System
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
6:09
Evaluate HVAC systems based on budget, facility type, owner preferences, and engineer involvement, considering factors such as air handling units, zone control, VAV boxes, and heating/cooling mechanisms.
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Mechanical AHU
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
6:09
Describe how an air handler works, including the components like louvers, filters, coils, and fans, and explain the importance of monitoring filter pressure differentials to avoid issues like clogging.
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Mechanical AHU Air Mixing
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:14
Mix air from different sources for ventilation and energy efficiency, balance heating and cooling requirements, and adjust airflows using dampers in the air mixing chamber.
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Mechanical AHU Filters
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:15
Select and install the appropriate filters for air handling systems based on MERV ratings and operational requirements.
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Mechanical AHU Coils
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:47
Condition the air by transferring heat between water and air through water coils that consist of copper tubes and fins, with multiple rows for cooling and fewer rows for heating, improving performance with increased surface area for heat transfer.
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Mechanical AHU Evaporative Cooling
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:55
Evaporative cooling in air handling system can be used in low humidity areas to naturally cool the air and introduce humidity if needed.
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Mechanical AHU Fans
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
3:46
Fans move air through buildings in HVAC systems, with two main types being centrifugal and axial fans.
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Mechanical Duct
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
5:06
Sheet metal duct is used to transfer air throughout a facility, with round duct being more efficient for airflow but requiring more vertical space compared to rectangular duct.
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Mechanical Duct Uses
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:58
Discussing different uses for ductwork, including supply air distribution, return air, introduction of outside air for ventilation, exhaust air for specific applications, and makeup air to balance pressures. Testing ducts for leaks is also highlighted.
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Mechanical Plenum
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:53
Utilize the return air plenum above the ceiling to recirculate air back to the air handler, reducing the need for extensive ductwork.
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Mechanical Dampers
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:45
Adjust air volume in ducts using dampers, manually or automatically, for temperature control, system balancing, and fire protection.
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Mechanical VAV
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:39
Adjusting the volume of air in a building using variable air volume boxes improves energy efficiency and thermal comfort for occupants.
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Mechanical GRD
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
3:25
Differentiate between a grill, register, and diffuser for air distribution in HVAC systems.
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Mechanical FCU
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
7:08
Fan coil units condition air in individual spaces using filters, coils, and a fan to provide heating or cooling based on a two- or four-pipe system without the need for large ductwork.
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Mechanical PTAC
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:26
PTAC units independently provide cooling and heating without hot or chilled water piping, using their own compressor, condenser, electric heating coil, or heat pump within the unit, installed through the wall or window, giving occupants individual control but requiring high maintenance, being noisy, and lacking aesthetic appeal.
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Mechanical Convectors
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:50
Discussing convector units, including baseboard and sill height options, which heat using water, steam, or electricity and improve mean radiant temperature for occupants, with air drawn from below and discharged through the top, as well as mentioning chilled beams as a growing popular option for cooling spaces.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Unit Heater
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:06
Unit heaters heat air by blowing it over heating coils, commonly used in unoccupied spaces to prevent pipes from freezing.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Radiant Heat
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:45
Discussing and exploring options for radiant heat for indoor and outdoor applications, including the use of hot water or glycol in tubing systems embedded in flooring or concrete for even heat distribution.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Chilled Water System
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:33
Review the chilled water system, including the chiller, water coil, pump, and cooling tower, to explain the process of cooling the water for HVAC systems.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Chiller
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:06
Construct team must plan for chiller arrival and access, choose suitable location in building, and install chiller for heat removal and transfer in chilled water loop.
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Mechanical Cooling Tower
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:08
Install the cooling tower in a location with free air circulation to ensure efficient operation and prevent damage.
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Mechanical Boiler
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:33
Design and install boilers for heating water in buildings to provide hot water or steam efficiently, considering fuel sources, heat transfer surfaces, combustion chambers, and materials.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Hydronic Piping
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:51
Install and label insulated hydronic piping for chilled water, heating water, steam, and condensate lines, incorporating valves for flow control and automation as needed.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Pumps
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:02
Discussing the use of pumps to circulate water in a building, including photos of pumps in action, as part of the HVAC system overview.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Central Utility Plant
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
5:17
Central utility plants centralize the production of utilities to serve multiple buildings or large facilities, distributing electricity, natural gas, water, steam, and chilled water efficiently and reliably.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Controls
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
6:36
Operable windows are introduced to address the lack of individual control in commercial buildings, while automated control systems like DDC and BAS enhance comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency by monitoring and adjusting various building systems based on sensor inputs.
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Mechanical Test and Balance
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
3:29
Test and balance all components of an HVAC system to optimize function and prevent issues like pressure imbalances and inefficiencies.
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Mechanical HVAC Summary
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:31
Discussed HVAC systems, equipment, and controls, and introduced centralized utility plants, concluding with test and balance.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Overview
Topic 4: Plumbing
3:52
Learn about the origin of plumbing from Roman times, the role of lead pipes, the connection between lead poisoning and the fall of the Roman Empire, public health issues related to waterborne diseases in the 1800s, and the importance of plumbing codes in ensuring sanitation and public health.
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Plumbing System
Topic 4: Plumbing
9:04
Plumbing includes supplying clean water and removing waste through domestic water and drain waste and vent systems.
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Plumbing Fixtures
Topic 4: Plumbing
6:36
Classify water closets into wall-hung or floor-mounted, tank or tankless options. Tankless toilets use water pressure for flushing and are wall-hung, requiring substantial support. Consider water usage regulations for fixtures and options like dual-flushing or automatic flushing. Urinals can be waterless for reduced water usage. Lavatories are for handwashing, while sinks have multiple purposes. Showers may include emergency eyewash units and require quality checks for leaks. Drinking fountains can include features for water bottle filling. Ganged fixtures save on plumbing materials and labor costs by grouping fixtures together in close proximity.
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Plumbing Domestic Supply
Topic 4: Plumbing
3:15
Discuss domestic water supply material types, including copper, PEX, stainless steel, galvanized steel, PVC, and CPVC, highlighting their characteristics and applications, testing for leaks, and chlorinating the system before use.
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Plumbing DWV
Topic 4: Plumbing
5:53
Discussing drain, waste, and vent systems, including the importance of P-traps to prevent sewer gases from entering spaces and the function of vents to allow proper flow and release of sewer gases.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Drains
Topic 4: Plumbing
3:39
Install floor drains, floor sinks, roof drains, and hose bibs as part of the plumbing system.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Other Pipe Systems
Topic 4: Plumbing
0:59
Identify process lines installed by pipe fitters in buildings such as hospitals, labs, and manufacturing plants.
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Plumbing Summary
Topic 4: Plumbing
0:49
Reviewing plumbing system overview, domestic water side, riser diagram, fixtures, domestic supply, drain, waste, vent, and other pipe systems discussed in class; moving on to electrical systems in the next session.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Overview
Topic 5: Electrical
5:16
Learn about electrical systems and equipment, including terminology, voltage classifications, power distribution, ground fault, bonding, grounding, lightning protection, and emergency and standby power.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Terminology
Topic 5: Electrical
10:11
Summarize the comparison between water and electricity terminology and explain the advantages of converting from high to low voltages in electrical systems.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Voltage
Topic 5: Electrical
10:49
Explain voltage ratings and differences between single-phase and three-phase systems in electrical applications.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Power Energy
Topic 5: Electrical
5:27
Describe how power and energy are utilized in electrical systems within buildings.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Distribution
Topic 5: Electrical
5:36
A typical commercial building's electrical system includes a main service from the utility, a transformer to step down voltage, a main distribution panel, branch panels for different functions, and possibly additional transformers for further voltage reduction.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Temporary Power Lights
Topic 5: Electrical
3:01
Design, plan, and install temporary power system for construction site, ensuring safety, code compliance, and proper lighting levels for trades.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Main Service Underground
Topic 5: Electrical
0:38
Summarize underground electrical installation requirements, including PVC conduit material, potential concrete encasing, and red dye mandates, as discussed previously in the course.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Transformers
Topic 5: Electrical
1:28
Explain how transformers step down voltages for power transmission at buildings.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Meters
Topic 5: Electrical
0:36
Discussing the metering process after the transformer installation in commercial and industrial settings, including the possibility of integrating the meter with the main switchgear.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Rooms
Topic 5: Electrical
1:15
Coordinate the layout and design of the electrical room according to code requirements for clearances, dimensions, and equipment access, as well as manage cooling load considerations and equipment placement.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Main Distribution
Topic 5: Electrical
0:51
Summarize the main distribution panel's various names and functions as a key component in electrical systems.
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Electrical Panelboard
Topic 5: Electrical
1:38
Distribute power to a floor or zone, reach a panel board, divide power further, feed circuits, organize panel based on function, install main switch and circuit breakers, protect live wires with cover, use NEMA standards for enclosures, specify conditions like NEMA Type 1 or 4X, discuss circuit breakers in panel board.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Protective Devices
Topic 5: Electrical
5:40
Protect electrical circuits from overcurrent and overvoltage by installing circuit breakers or fuses at various points in the distribution system.
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Electrical Conductor Wiring
Topic 5: Electrical
4:12
Describe wire size by diameter in millimeters and American wire gauge (AWG) in the United States, explaining that as the gauge number increases, the wire diameter decreases to reflect how wire is produced and pulled through dies to achieve the appropriate gauge.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Conduit
Topic 5: Electrical
3:26
Covering the purposes and types of conduit used in wiring installations.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Boxes
Topic 5: Electrical
1:39
Summarize the various box types used in electrical work and their purposes, including outlet boxes, device boxes, junction boxes, and pull boxes, as well as the importance of proper installation and coordination with end users.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Cable Tray
Topic 5: Electrical
2:48
Pulling wire through cable tray for low voltage cabling in commercial buildings is efficient and cost-effective, providing easy access for future renovations or upgrades.
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Electrical Pulling Terminating Wire
Topic 5: Electrical
3:36
Pulling wires through conduit involves stripping insulation off the wires, combining them into a wire head, and attaching them to fish tape, cable, or rope already in the conduit. Electricians pull the wires simultaneously through the conduit using lubricant and limit the number of bends. Wires are then terminated in panels, receptacles, switches, lights, and equipment, following a specific sequence involving coordination with other trades.
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Electrical Equipment Circuits
Topic 5: Electrical
0:44
Install dedicated panels, local disconnects, motor starters, and VFDs for equipment in labs, hospitals, or manufacturing plants.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Lighting
Topic 5: Electrical
4:31
Discuss lighting circuits, luminaire schedules, lamp types (incandescent, fluorescent, LED), and lighting efficiency improvements in commercial buildings.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Grounding Lightning Protection
Topic 5: Electrical
4:49
Discussing ground faults, GFCIs, bonding, grounding, and lightning protection in electrical systems.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Emergency Standby Power
Topic 5: Electrical
4:30
Discuss emergency and standby power requirements and systems, including emergency lighting, fire alarm systems, and generators for critical loads.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Photovoltaic Systems
Topic 5: Electrical
1:33
Discussing photovoltaic systems, their applications, and potential for various installations and energy solutions.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Summary
Topic 5: Electrical
1:28
Covered definitions, voltage classifications, power distribution, electrical systems & equipment in a building, circuits, grounding, lightning protection, emergency power, and photovoltaic systems; next, discuss low voltage systems like audiovisual, teledata, and security in the building.
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Enrollment required
Low Voltage Overview
Topic 6: Low Voltage
1:46
Discuss teledata, audiovisual, and security scopes in low voltage systems, specifying requirements and divisions in construction projects.
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Enrollment required
Low Voltage Wiring
Topic 6: Low Voltage
3:48
Twist, shield, and categorize low-voltage wiring for different applications.
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Enrollment required
Low Voltage Tele Data
Topic 6: Low Voltage
3:55
Describe Teledata systems as voice and data systems for telephone and data networks, installed by electrical contractors or Teledata subcontractors, with distribution through main and intermediate distribution frame rooms using cable tray or conduit, supported and grounded, and serving devices like wireless access points and jacks.
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Enrollment required
Low Voltage Audio Visual
Topic 6: Low Voltage
4:42
Install televisions, speakers, and projectors for audiovisual systems in buildings.
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Enrollment required
Low Voltage Security System
Topic 6: Low Voltage
4:43
Design, install, and program access control, surveillance, and intrusion detection systems for building security.
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Enrollment required
Low Voltage Summary
Topic 6: Low Voltage
0:43
Covered Teledata, Audiovisual, and Security scopes in divisions 27 and 28, representing low voltage work nearing project completion. Next, review fire suppression systems for fire and life safety.
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Building Construction Fire Protection Course Online
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Overview
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
4:58
The fire suppression class covers the history, types, components, and design of fire sprinkler systems.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Misconceptions
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
4:20
Reviewing action movie scenarios about fire protection systems to distinguish fact from fiction.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Sprinkler System
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
0:39
Discuss wet and dry pipe systems in commercial buildings, including automatic sprinklers, pipe networks, and features for fire suppression.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Wet Pipe System
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
3:27
A wet pipe system consists of pipes filled with water connected to automatic sprinkler heads for fire protection in buildings.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Dry Pipe System
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
2:22
Outline the operation and application of a dry pipe system for fire protection in freezing-prone areas.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Other Systems
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
3:20
Discussing pre-action systems, deluge systems, and kitchen fire suppression systems.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Main Line
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
0:38
Explain the plumbing system layout in the photo with gate valves, check valves, and fire main.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Sprinkler Pipe
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
1:06
Install black steel sprinkler pipe with mechanical fittings, using grooved joints and orange couplings for rapid installation.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Sprinkler Heads
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
5:23
Identify sprinkler head types and orientations for different applications in fire protection systems.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Standpipes
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
2:08
Standpipe systems provide permanent points for the fire department to connect hoses within buildings, ensuring immediate access to pressurized water.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Fire Department Connection
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
3:08
Maintain fire department connections for sprinkler systems as required, ensuring clear access for fire vehicles and proper signage for different zones within the building.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Fire Pumps
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
1:47
Summarize the discussion on fire pumps, including the need for boosting pressure in buildings, the types of pumps used (main fire pump and jockey pump), and the purpose of each in maintaining pressure in the system.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Summary
Topic 1: Fire Suppression
1:53
Discussing wet pipe systems, dry pipe systems, pre-action, and deluge systems, including components such as main lines, pipe material, sprinkler head types, standpipes, fire department connections, and pumps, and explaining the use of pendant heads in a glass atrium for fire suppression.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Life Safety Overview
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
1:35
Discuss the design, installation, and components of fire alarm systems in relation to fire and life safety measures.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm System
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
1:09
Explain the components and functions of the fire alarm system.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Input Detectors
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
3:38
Differentiate between various types of detectors, including smoke, thermal, and beam detectors, based on their specific applications and functionalities.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Input Manual Alarm
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
1:44
Pull stations are manual alarm devices that trigger building-wide or zone-specific alarms when pulled, usually located at exits for use during building evacuations.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Input Flow Detectors
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
2:05
Detects water flow in a sprinkler system and signals an alarm if flow exceeds a set threshold for a specified time.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Control Panels
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
4:14
The fire alarm panel receives inputs from detection devices and activates alarms, communicates events, and controls building systems in case of a fire.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Output Horn Strobes
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
1:03
Horn strobes provide visual flashing strobe lights and loud alarms, reaching 120 decibels to alert occupants during emergencies.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Output Magnetic Door Release
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
0:29
Identify horn strobes and magnetic door releases in fire protection systems to prevent the spread of smoke and fire in the event of an alarm.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Output Fire Smoke Dampers
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
0:34
Install fire smoke dampers to prevent the spread of smoke and fire.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Installation
Topic 2: Fire Alarm
1:16
Install fire alarm system with conduit to prevent vandalism and damage, often requiring red conduit for fire alarm indication, followed by wire installation and device setup by fire alarm contractor, leading to testing phase for completion of integrated life safety system.
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Enrollment required
Life Safety Emergency Lighting Power
Topic 3: Life Safety
0:44
Consider installing emergency lighting with a dedicated circuit backed up by a battery or generator for safety and compliance.
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Enrollment required
Life Safety Egress Occupancy
Topic 3: Life Safety
1:25
Ensure proper egress and occupancy by installing exit signs, glow-in-the-dark signs, panic hardware, and braille signage, while adhering to room occupancy limits to maintain safety and functionality.
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Enrollment required
Life Safety First Responders
Topic 3: Life Safety
1:14
Install Knox boxes for first responders, ensure clear access to fire hydrants and fire department connections, and provide a permanent address on the building for easy location by emergency personnel.
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Enrollment required
Life Safety Emergency Phones Fire Extinguishers
Topic 3: Life Safety
0:41
Review movie scenes to test understanding of fire life safety systems.
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Enrollment required
Fire Suppression Examples
Topic 3: Life Safety
5:46
Identify false fire safety movie scenes about sprinklers and alarms, debunking misconceptions and highlighting the importance of accurate representation.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Life Safety Summary
Topic 3: Life Safety
0:53
Reviewing fire alarm system components and installation process, discussing life safety issues, debunking Hollywood depictions, and preparing for the next class on conveying equipment.
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Enrollment required
Conveying Equipment Overview
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
3:50
The lesson covers conveyance and conveying equipment, focusing on elevators, moving sidewalks, and escalators, with historical background and technological advancements discussed.
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Enrollment required
Conveying Equipment Temporary
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
4:39
Discussing temporary conveyance options for construction, including construction elevators, landing platforms, stairs, and ladders.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Types
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
2:00
Differentiate between passenger and freight elevators based on capacity and design; compare hydraulic and traction elevators in terms of speed, cost, and height limitations.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Hydraulic
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
2:46
Hydraulic elevators use hydraulic fluid to raise a piston, which in turn raises the elevator car, making them suitable for shorter buildings up to 60 feet or 5 stories.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Traction
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
2:41
Explain operation and construction of traction elevators using cables and drive shiv.
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Elevator Pit Shaft
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
1:34
Construct the pit and shaft for the elevator, choosing between options such as cast-in-place concrete, CMU, gypsum board, or glass.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Construction
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
0:43
Install permanent elevator components by utilizing a temporary arrangement to access the shaft and hoist tools to different floors.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Rails Guides
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
0:38
Install guide rails vertically in hoist way and use roller guides with roller wheels to keep car on rails.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Front
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
1:40
Coordinate installation of elevator fronts and door jams, ensuring proper alignment with elevator cab and hoistway doors, as well as fall hazard considerations in construction.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Shaft Interior
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
0:52
Install hoistway doors at each landing to enclose the elevator shaft and allow access to the car.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Machine Room
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
2:03
The elevator machine drives the car by turning the shiv and cables, while the motor controls the movement of the car and counterweight.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Machine Room Less
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
1:50
Summarize the advantages of machine roomless elevators, which include eliminating the need for a machine room, saving square footage, being cost-effective for buildings up to 30 stories, and requiring only a small controller closet.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Cables
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
1:05
Cables carry car load, counterweights balance, traveling cable provides power and data.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Car
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
1:57
Install finishes in the elevator car, make adjustments, complete inspections, and prepare for turnover and occupancy.
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Enrollment required
Elevator Safety
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
3:33
Summarize elevator safety measures including cable systems, emergency brakes, door interlocks, emergency telephones, trap doors, and the inefficacy of pushing call buttons multiple times.
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Enrollment required
Conveying Equipment Escalators
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
1:59
Discuss the installation process for escalators, including prefabrication, transportation, hoisting, and on-site adjustments.
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Enrollment required
Conveying Equipment Moving Walkways
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
1:33
Install moving walkways in locations like airports or ski resorts, with prefabricated sections assembled on-site with power and pit preparation.
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Enrollment required
Conveying Equipment Summary
Topic 4: Conveying Equipment - Elevators
1:38
Reviewing equipment, materials, and MEP trim, starting, testing, and commissioning for completion in the next phase of the project.
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Enrollment required
MEP Trim Startup Testing Cx Overview
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
1:17
Complete MEP trim, startup, testing, and commissioning for final project turnover.
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Enrollment required
MEP Trim Labels Tags
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
2:25
Install final trim for MEP trades after finishes are complete including painting walls, installing ceiling tiles, flooring, and casework, and then proceed with receptacles, switches, lighting controls, occupancy sensors, fire life safety devices, teledata cover plates, Wi-Fi devices, audiovisual local controls, televisions, thermostats, pipe labels, valve tags, security components, and cameras to complete the project.
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Enrollment required
Startup Testing
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
1:48
Contractors perform in-house startup and testing procedures for all systems, including power and electrical, ensuring proper function and completion of specific checklists.
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Enrollment required
Startup Testing Lighting
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
0:46
Test lighting controls, including normal and emergency lights, to ensure functionality and remove temporary lights once permanent lights are approved.
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Enrollment required
Startup Testing Fire Alarm
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
1:30
Test the fire alarm sequence of operation for all scenarios and points, including manual pull station, smoke detectors, heat detectors, duct smoke detectors, sprinkler water flow, etc., verifying appropriate responses like indicating alarms on the panel, initiating audible and visual alarms, shutting down equipment, and notifying responders.
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Enrollment required
Startup Testing Tele Data Audio Visual Security
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
1:05
Test functionality of teledata, audiovisual, and security systems, including cameras, card readers, and Wi-Fi, ensure proper operation for remote monitoring, and transition to card access for key employees and contractors.
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Enrollment required
Startup Testing HVAC
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
2:54
Inspecting, testing, and starting up HVAC equipment with meticulous attention to cleanliness, alignment, balance, and functionality before final commissioning.
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Enrollment required
Startup Testing Plumbing
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
1:50
Sterilize the potable water system by adding chlorine, conducting tests for bacteria, and flushing the system before putting it into service.
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Enrollment required
Startup Testing Fire Suppression
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
2:42
Inspect and test fire suppression systems, including sprinkler lines, main drain, fire pumps, and special systems for proper function and safety compliance.
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Enrollment required
Startup Testing Elevators
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
1:25
Inspectors check elevators, escalators, and moving walks for proper installation, operation, and performance, including speed, door opening times, interlocks, and door obstruction response. Tests are conducted for power outage and fire alarm operation, firefighter key usage, heat and smoke detectors, labels, signage, and communication.
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Startup Testing Special Systems
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
1:50
Start up and test various special systems and equipment in the building, including snowmelt systems, solar systems, crane tests, lab equipment, pool systems, and conveyor belts.
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Enrollment required
Commissioning
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
3:38
Commissioning agents verify proper installation and function of major systems in a facility to meet owner's requirements and operational needs, documenting observations and providing comprehensive system manuals.
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Enrollment required
MEP Trim Startup Testing Cx Summary
Topic 5: MEP Trim, Startup and Commissioning
1:23
Complete final checks, inspections, and commissioning to ensure building and systems are in good shape before occupancy turnover to owner.
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Enrollment required
Closeout Turnover Post Occupancy Overview
Topic 6: Project Closeout, Turnover and Post-Occupancy
1:12
Complete final punch list items, obtain certificate of occupancy, achieve final completion, facilitate smooth turnover, and transition to post-occupancy.
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Closeout Punch List
Topic 6: Project Closeout, Turnover and Post-Occupancy
2:28
Addressing deficient items identified during a walk-through to ensure they are rectified before final completion.
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Enrollment required
Closeout Certificate of Occupancy
Topic 6: Project Closeout, Turnover and Post-Occupancy
9:42
Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy to legally occupy the building and allow public access, ensuring safety and compliance with local regulations.
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Enrollment required
Closeout Final Completion
Topic 6: Project Closeout, Turnover and Post-Occupancy
4:44
Achieve final completion by meeting all contractual milestones, including security testing, generator maintenance, as-built drawings, warranties, O&M manuals, training, signage, furniture installation, punch list completion, final cleaning, attic stock provision, and more.
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Turnover Post Occupancy
Topic 6: Project Closeout, Turnover and Post-Occupancy
1:57
Transitioning to the warranty phase, the contractor is responsible for fixing any issues that arise post-occupancy for a period of one year, ensuring customer satisfaction and building a positive reputation.
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Closeout Turnover Post Occupancy Summary
Topic 6: Project Closeout, Turnover and Post-Occupancy
1:11
Reflect on the completion of the building project, outlining the key milestones and the upcoming course conclusion.
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Construction Materials Course Online
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Introduction to Materials: Concrete
Lesson 1: Concrete and Foundations
4:42
Learn what concrete is, how it is made, and where it is used in construction.
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Concrete Strength, Properties, and Slump Test
Lesson 1: Concrete and Foundations
7:27
Examine concrete strength, curing, reinforcement, and workability testing.
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Enrollment required
Shallow Foundations
Lesson 1: Concrete and Foundations
10:36
Introducing shallow foundations and how footings, walls, and rebar transfer loads.
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Enrollment required
Building Blocks of Shallow Foundations
Lesson 1: Concrete and Foundations
8:13
Comparing poured-in-place and CMU foundations and their structural connections.
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Shallow Foundations: Slab on Grade
Lesson 1: Concrete and Foundations
5:53
Dive into slab-on-grade foundations, materials, and construction methods.
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Enrollment required
Shallow Foundations Finishings
Lesson 1: Concrete and Foundations
7:52
Covering waterproofing, insulation, drainage, and foundation durability strategies.
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Enrollment required
Concrete & Steel for Heavy Foundations
Lesson 1: Concrete and Foundations
9:40
Explore deep foundation systems and their use in high-load structures.
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Introduction to Materials: Wood
Lesson 2: Wood and Steel Framing Systems
10:00
Learn why wood is a foundational construction material, including its properties, lumber types, treatments, and sizing standards.
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Wood Floor Framing
Lesson 2: Wood and Steel Framing Systems
10:00
See how wood floor framing systems work and how structural loads move from finished floors down to the foundation.
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Enrollment required
Wood Wall Framing (With Openings)
Lesson 2: Wood and Steel Framing Systems
6:59
Understand how wood-framed walls are built around doors and windows while maintaining proper load paths.
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Enrollment required
Floor Framing Openings and Stairs
Lesson 2: Wood and Steel Framing Systems
8:05
Explore how floor systems are framed to accommodate stairs and other vertical openings without compromising structure.
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Enrollment required
Introduction to Steel
Lesson 2: Wood and Steel Framing Systems
6:46
An introduction to steel as a construction material, including its classifications, properties, and common uses.
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Enrollment required
Commercial Framing Materials: Light Frame
Lesson 2: Wood and Steel Framing Systems
4:00
Discover how light-gauge steel framing is used in commercial and multi-residential construction projects.
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Enrollment required
Structural Steel Part 1
Lesson 2: Wood and Steel Framing Systems
7:49
Learn how structural steel framing systems support large-scale commercial buildings.
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Enrollment required
Structural Steel Part 2
Lesson 2: Wood and Steel Framing Systems
6:04
Take a closer look at composite steel systems, common steel shapes, and required protection methods.
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Introduction to Materials: Insulation
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
6:56
Understand what insulation does and how it improves comfort, energy efficiency, and building performance.
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Insulation Types, Considerations, and Placement
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
8:49
Explore interior finish elements like molding, trim, and millwork, and how they shape interior spaces.
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Enrollment required
Exterior Finishings Weather Barriers (House Wraps and Building Paper)
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
5:34
Compare the most common insulation types and where each performs best.
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Enrollment required
Exterior Siding Part 1
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
6:18
Learn how weather-resistive barriers protect buildings from moisture while supporting envelope performance.
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Enrollment required
Exterior Siding Part 2
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
9:24
Explore exterior siding systems and how they protect and finish buildings.
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Enrollment required
Commercial Curtain Walls
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
4:10
Compare vinyl and metal siding options based on durability, maintenance, and performance.
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Enrollment required
Masonry Veneer and Stucco
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
6:22
Learn how curtain wall systems function as non-load-bearing exterior facades.
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Enrollment required
Interior Flooring
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
8:47
Understand how masonry veneer and stucco systems manage moisture and enhance durability.
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Enrollment required
Interior Walls and Ceilings
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
10:17
Explore common interior flooring materials and how to choose based on performance needs.
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Enrollment required
Millwork, Molding and Related Elements
Lesson 3: Building Envelope and Interior Finishes
5:55
Learn how wall and ceiling finishes affect durability, acoustics, and appearance
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Roof Construction Types
Lesson 4: Roof Systems and Roofing Materials
8:00
Understand the purpose of roof systems and how low-slope and steep-slope roofs differ.
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Rafter Framed Roofs: Materials and Terminology
Lesson 4: Roof Systems and Roofing Materials
7:23
Learn how rafter-framed roof systems transfer loads to supporting walls
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Enrollment required
Roof Trusses
Lesson 4: Roof Systems and Roofing Materials
8:10
Explore roof trusses and how they differ from traditional rafter framing
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Enrollment required
Sloped Roofs
Lesson 4: Roof Systems and Roofing Materials
9:11
Compare steep-slope roofing materials based on performance, cost, and climate suitability
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Enrollment required
Flat Low Slope Roofs
Lesson 4: Roof Systems and Roofing Materials
6:43
Examine low-slope roofing systems and the waterproofing strategies they require.
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Enrollment required
Roof Underlayment, Moisture Control, and Cornices
Lesson 4: Roof Systems and Roofing Materials
6:50
Learn how secondary roof systems manage water, vapor, and airflow.
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Intro to Plumbing Systems
Lesson 5: Building Service Systems (MEP)
6:49
Get an overview of plumbing systems and how water supply and waste removal work together
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Common Plumbing Materials
Lesson 5: Building Service Systems (MEP)
8:17
Explore plumbing materials and how selection affects durability and performance.
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Enrollment required
Intro to Mechanical Systems
Lesson 5: Building Service Systems (MEP)
9:51
Understand how HVAC systems regulate temperature, humidity, and indoor air quality.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Systems Materials
Lesson 5: Building Service Systems (MEP)
9:02
Learn how HVAC materials impact system efficiency and comfort.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Systems and Materials Part 1
Lesson 5: Building Service Systems (MEP)
5:49
Get familiar with building electrical systems and how power is safely distributed.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Systems and Materials Part 2
Lesson 5: Building Service Systems (MEP)
8:09
Gain insight into how electrical components control, protect, and deliver power throughout a building.
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Drivers of Change in Construction Materials
Lesson 6: Innovation, Sustainability & the Future of Materials
8:22
Explore the forces driving innovation in construction materials.
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Sustainable and Green Construction Materials
Lesson 6: Innovation, Sustainability & the Future of Materials
9:28
Learn how sustainable materials reduce environmental impact and support greener buildings.
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Energy Efficient Building Envelopes
Lesson 6: Innovation, Sustainability & the Future of Materials
9:35
Understand how high-performance building envelopes improve energy efficiency and comfort.
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Prefabrication and Modular Construction
Lesson 6: Innovation, Sustainability & the Future of Materials
7:30
Explore prefabrication and modular construction, and how offsite methods change building delivery.
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3D Printing for Construction
Lesson 6: Innovation, Sustainability & the Future of Materials
7:58
Learn the basics of 3D printing in construction, including materials, applications, and current limitations.
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Commercial Blueprint Reading Course Online
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Welcome to the Course
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
1:09
Study a seven-story mixed-use commercial project for commercial construction, reviewing architectural, civil, structural, mechanical, and plumbing plans, along with interior design and technology drawings, and project specifications.
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Symbols
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
8:08
Identify and interpret symbols on floor plans.
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Enrollment required
Doors and Windows
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
5:17
Analyze floor plan details for doors and windows.
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Enrollment required
Dimensions Part 1
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
3:23
Discussing dimensions in architectural and engineering drawings, including the use of extension lines, dimension lines, indicators, and dimension text, as well as differences in representation between architect and engineer drawings.
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Enrollment required
Dimensions Part 2
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
5:58
Study and analyze the dimensions of the building to understand the measurements and layout effectively.
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Enrollment required
Standard Views
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
3:23
Differentiate between floor plans, elevations, building sections, wall sections, and details in architectural drawings.
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Enrollment required
Construction Document Set Organization
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
4:13
Organize blueprints in a sequence from general notes to engineering drawings, including site plan, floor plan elevation sections, enlarged sections, detail drawings, interior elevations, and engineering drawings.
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Enrollment required
Stairs
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
7:01
Examine stair drawings to understand layout and spatial relationship.
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Enrollment required
Paper Size
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
3:23
Utilize standard paper sizes in architecture engineering contracting offices, including 8.5 by 11, 11 by 17, 22 by 34, and 30 by 42 for various printing needs.
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Enrollment required
Scale
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
5:47
Study and apply architectural scale factors for accurate blueprint design.
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Architectural Cover Sheet
Topic 2: Cover Sheet & Floor Plan
10:00
Examine the cover sheet for key project details, including project name, address, professionals involved, revisions, and building codes.
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Architectural Sheet Index
Topic 2: Cover Sheet & Floor Plan
4:04
Review and follow the sheet index page for organizational guidance.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Abbreviations
Topic 2: Cover Sheet & Floor Plan
4:31
Review architectural abbreviations, symbols, sheet identification, material legend, and general notes to understand construction document conventions.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Floor Plans 01
Topic 2: Cover Sheet & Floor Plan
8:27
Examine floor plan details, including key plan, structural grids, dimensions, wall patterns, and room sections.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Floor Plans 02
Topic 2: Cover Sheet & Floor Plan
5:42
Review and analyze the sheet for structural grid consistency and detailed information inclusion.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Floor Plans 03
Topic 2: Cover Sheet & Floor Plan
4:18
Examine building sections, floor plans, and dimensions in the drawing.
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Architectural Reflected Ceiling Plans
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
4:07
Review the Reflected Ceiling Plan drawing for public areas, identify ceiling types, heights above the finished floor, and lighting fixtures.
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Architectural Building Elevations
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
6:08
Examine building elevation drawings to understand materials, dimensions, and design details.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Building Axonometrics
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
1:15
Examine building axonometrics modeled in Revit software, showcasing detailed construction documents and design enhancements.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Building Sections
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
3:06
Review the building section sheet with axonometric, key plan, and building section details, including column grid, room names, and pochade walls, along with references to wall sections on adjacent pages.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Wall Sections
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
7:21
Examine detailed wall sections with keynotes and material annotations, showing specific construction elements at a larger scale than building sections.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Interior Wall Types 01
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
5:55
Review the enlarged plans and sections for stairway number two, focusing on key dimensions, materials, and details at each level of the building.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Interior Wall Types 02
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
3:51
Study the interior wall types and sections drawing to understand the different wall configurations and materials used.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Interior Wall Types 03
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
3:27
Review the detailed floor plan layout, noting key indicators for wall types, fire ratings, ADA clearances, structural grid lines, and building sections.
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Architectural Enlarged Unit Plans A
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
7:15
Reviewing and analyzing detailed guest room suite drawings, including floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, electrical plans, furniture plans, axonometrics, and interior elevations.
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Architectural Enlarged Bathroom Plans
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
7:30
Review enlarged public restroom drawings including floor plan, interior elevations, cabinetry, and fixtures.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Enlarged Lobby Drawings
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
2:21
Study the enlarged lobby space plan drawing showing wall sections and elevation views.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Door Schedule And Door Types
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
3:47
Review the door schedule to identify details such as room number, door type, fire rating, width, height, material, head and jam details, and hardware set numbers for each door.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Enlarged Stair Plans And Sections
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
5:55
Examine enlarged plans and sections for stairway number two depicting details and dimensions on each level of the building.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Elevator Drawings
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
4:58
Analyze the Passenger and Service Elevator plans and elevations for dimensional consistency and referencing.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Enlarged Elevator Drawings
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
4:21
Reviewing and detailing the elevator plans, reflected ceiling plans, and elevations to ensure accurate representation in construction documents.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Parking Lot Striping Plans
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
3:07
Review the striping plan for parking part B, highlighting the designated paths of travel, ADA parking requirements, column grids, and parking spot dimensions.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Occupancy/Egress 01
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
12:34
Explain egress plans and occupancy load calculations in a San Diego building renovation.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Occupancy/Egress 02
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
5:08
Summarize means of egress and occupancy load drawings for a specific office suite in a building, focusing on safety and building code compliance.
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Interior Design Finish Schedule
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
1:17
Review the finish schedule for the interior design drawings, identifying tags, specifying items, determining materials, and establishing sources for procurement.
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Interior Design Ceiling Wall Finish Plan
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
2:07
Summarize the Lobby Level, Ceiling, and Wall Finish Plans in Interior Design Drawing ID 102, detailing the extent of finishes and specifying materials for different areas of the lobby and public spaces.
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Enrollment required
Interior Design Millwork Details 01
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
3:32
Review millwork details for half of the registration desk in the lobby, including section cuts, dimensions, and elevations.
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Enrollment required
Interior Design Millwork Details 02
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
6:30
Review and analyze the millwork drawings for the bar area.
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Enrollment required
Civil Demolition Plan
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
2:59
Review the civil engineering demolition plan drawing, noting key items like property lines, demolition legends, notes on removal of various elements, spot elevations, construction site extents, and entrance location.
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Enrollment required
Civil Metes and Bounds
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
8:48
Civil engineers use decimal units and surveyor's angles to create site plans with precision and accuracy.
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Enrollment required
Civil Site Plan
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
4:33
Examine the site plan drawing for building footprint and parking layout details.
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Enrollment required
Civil Grading and Drainage Plan
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
3:30
Review the Civil Sheet C4.1 Grading and Drainage Plan, focusing on keynotes, spot elevations, and water management on the project site.
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Enrollment required
Civil Utilities Plan
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
3:15
Review the Utilities Plan drawing showing water systems and sanitary systems, noting connections, layouts, and key details for reference.
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Enrollment required
Civil Details
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
2:51
Examine the civil site details in drawing C6.2, focusing on various sections and elements like curbs, walls, structures, and elevations for a parking garage.
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Enrollment required
Civil Landscape Plan
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
2:17
Review LS.1 landscape plan drawing showing plant schedule, symbols, codes, quantities, and areas for trees, shrubs, ground covers, and flowers with plants to be removed.
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Structural Structural General Notes
Topic 6: Structural
4:30
Examine the structural engineering drawings for specific design criteria and load requirements, including dead loads, live loads, wind loads, foundations, reinforced concrete, structural steel, and post-installed anchors.
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Structural Structural 3D View
Topic 6: Structural
2:42
Create 3D models of structures using programs like Revit for collaborative analysis and visualization by the construction team.
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Enrollment required
Structural Foundation Plan
Topic 6: Structural
3:31
Review foundation plan details, including footing sizes, elevations, control joints, and slab details.
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Enrollment required
Structural Structural Framing Reinforcement
Topic 6: Structural
2:59
Review page S105B for the Level 2 Hotel Framing and Reinforcing Plan, focusing on the structural details of the concrete slab and reinforcing bars, including the expansion joint, rebar configurations, and grid dimensions.
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Enrollment required
Structural Structural Sections Details
Topic 6: Structural
6:18
Review sheet S202 for typical sections and details, noting that all drawings are not to scale with consistent text size and clear instructions for construction details.
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Enrollment required
Structural Foundation Schedule Details
Topic 6: Structural
6:55
Review sheet S-301, focusing on the foundation schedule and details, including spread footing sizes, reinforcement spacing, column and beam details, rebar placements, and slab dimensions, for accurate construction execution.
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Enrollment required
Structural Schedule Sections Details
Topic 6: Structural
6:05
Review beam schedule, sections, and details in sheet S401, analyzing dimensions, reinforcing, and placement of rebar and stirrups for beams and columns.
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Enrollment required
Structural Slab Sections Details
Topic 6: Structural
3:26
Review sheet S-503 for slab sections and details, focusing on balcony, pour strip, transitions at the ramp, shear walls, openings, suspended CMU masonry wall, and tenons at ramp.
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Enrollment required
Structural Sections Details
Topic 6: Structural
3:46
Review the structural drawings, focusing on sheet S604, Sections and Details, for analysis and detailing.
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Mechanical M Abbreviations Legend Notes
Topic 7: Mechanical
1:34
Review the Mechanical Abbreviations, Legends, and Notes page for important details on ductwork, equipment, piping, and graphical standards. Pay specific attention to the Ductwork Legend and Abbreviations for key symbols like air registers and return air grills.
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Mechanical Mechanical Plan 01
Topic 7: Mechanical
2:28
Revit was used to model the project in 3D, allowing for efficient resolution of duct placement and clear organization of information in the mechanical drawing.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Mechanical Plan 02
Topic 7: Mechanical
7:13
Examine the detailed mechanical system layout on the floor plan for various areas of the building, including the pool, guest suites, bathrooms, fitness area, and meeting rooms.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Mechanical Plan 03
Topic 7: Mechanical
1:21
Detailing the mechanical features of Level 4 in Area A of the building, including ducting, fire smoke dampers, airflow into the guest rooms, and fire detectors.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Mechanical Guest Room Plan
Topic 7: Mechanical
2:04
Review the mechanical guest room plans focusing on suite types, noting key features such as vertical conditioning units, air supply and return, passive ventilation systems, and thermostat locations.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Mechanical Schedules
Topic 7: Mechanical
3:16
Reviewing the mechanical schedules reveals detailed information about fan coil units, condensing units, ERUs, and other HVAC components based on specific manufacturer models such as Trane and Aeon.
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Enrollment required
Mechanical Mechanical Details
Topic 7: Mechanical
0:59
Review mechanical detail sheet for project-specific and manufacturer-provided details on filling voids, back drafts, fire stops, and exhaust pipes through walls.
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Electrical Electrical Notes Legends
Topic 8: Electrical
2:08
Review electrical notes and legends including lighting fixtures, fire alarm system legends, electrical symbol legends, and abbreviations provided by the engineer, among other content.
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Electrical Power Plan 01
Topic 8: Electrical
3:25
Review the power plant building layout, highlighting the electrical connections and panel box locations.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Power Plan 02
Topic 8: Electrical
1:43
Review the power drawing for the hotel area to identify junction boxes and electrical wiring details for different locations.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Power Plan 03
Topic 8: Electrical
2:11
Review the power drawing for consistency and clarity, noting the key elements such as power notes, fire alarm details, junction boxes, outlets, and electrical panel connections within guest suites and shared corridors.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Lighting Plan
Topic 8: Electrical
3:07
Review lighting drawing showing different light fixtures in various areas, including lobby, meeting rooms, corridors, trellis, egress hall, and bathrooms, with no dimensioning of fixtures.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Guest Room Plan
Topic 8: Electrical
3:16
Review electrical guest room plans, noting circuitry, fixtures, keynotes, junction boxes, outlets, smoke detectors, and fire alarm details for various suite types.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Power Lighting Partial Plan
Topic 8: Electrical
1:25
Review power and lighting partial plans for the building, focusing on electrical stations, panels, and data stations.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Electrical Riser
Topic 8: Electrical
3:47
Study the electrical riser drawing to understand the organization and distribution of the electrical system in the building, starting from the bottom with utility transformers and power distribution.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Electrical Schedules
Topic 8: Electrical
1:48
Review electrical schedules to identify circuits plugged into panel boxes in the building, noting circuit numbers, breaker numbers, KVA load factors, and total KVA demand for each panel.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Electrical Details
Topic 8: Electrical
2:49
Review standard electrical details for project scope and size, focusing on specific requirements for accessibility and safety compliance.
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Plumbing Legend Notes
Topic 9: Plumbing
1:32
Review and reference plumbing legends and notes to understand the symbols used in plumbing drawings.
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Plumbing Plumbing Plan 01
Topic 9: Plumbing
4:12
Review underground plumbing drawings to understand the sanitary and stormwater systems, tracing various pipe sizes and connections leading to a main manhole for waste disposal.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Plumbing Plan 02
Topic 9: Plumbing
3:45
Review the P1 parking plumbing drawings, noting the keynotes legend and general notes, highlighting the relationship between the lines coming down to feed into sanitary and storm lines, identifying various pipes and their functions, and emphasizing the need to pay attention to detail and the legend for clarity.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Plumbing Plan 03
Topic 9: Plumbing
1:40
Analyze plumbing floor plan for hotel guest suites on level one, highlighting piping layout, legend, and 3D models in Revit.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Plumbing Plan 04
Topic 9: Plumbing
3:15
Examine plumbing drawing on level 4 showing storm drains and sanitary drains with keynotes and general notes.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Plumbing Plan 05
Topic 9: Plumbing
2:26
Review the plumbing drawings for the roof to identify roof drains, gas lines, mechanical systems, and architectural scuppers for water control.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Guest Room
Topic 9: Plumbing
1:47
Examine plumbing guest room plans for higher-end suites, focusing on hot and cold water lines and drain configurations.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Enlarged Laundry
Topic 9: Plumbing
3:35
Examine the plumbing plan for the laundry area showing gas lines, sanitary connections, and riser diagrams.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Riser Designation Areas
Topic 9: Plumbing
1:18
Review the riser designation area drawing for Part B of the building to prepare for the subsequent riser diagrams.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Sanitary Riser
Topic 9: Plumbing
4:08
Show risers for area B, sections F and F1 depicting 3D grease waste, public restrooms, and sanitary risers with labeled traps, ventilation, and clean outs.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Partial Plans And Risers
Topic 9: Plumbing
3:54
Review the plumbing partial plans riser diagram for the public bathroom on the first level of the hotel.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Schedules
Topic 9: Plumbing
3:09
Review plumbing schedules for water heater, sump pump, fire pump, jockey pump, domestic water booster pump, circulation pump, storage tank, gas pressure regulator, grease trap, plumbing specialties, and plumbing fixtures.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Details
Topic 9: Plumbing
2:28
Examine plumbing details for key information and components to understand how they fit together and function.
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Technology Legends Symbols
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
1:23
Examine the legends and symbols page of the technology systems drawings to understand the information presented, including mounting heights and raceway details.
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Technology Technology Plans 01
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
2:36
Review the building technology drawing for part B of the building down in the parking lot, focusing on conduits, connections, access points, card readers, and intercom stations for a comprehensive understanding.
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Enrollment required
Technology Technology Plans 02
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
3:36
Reviewing the lobby level technology drawings for audiovisual and security features.
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Enrollment required
Technology Technology Plans 03
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
1:43
Summarize the technology drawings for the third level, showing common space information and individual guest suites with details such as IT closets, telecom backboards, racks for voice data terminations, wireless access points in corridors, and ADA two-way communication for wheelchair access.
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Enrollment required
Technology Guestroom Plans
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
2:57
Examine guest room technology drawings for cabling and raceway keynotes, noting cable quantities and locations for voice, data, and TV connections.
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Enrollment required
Technology Details
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
3:45
Review the cabling and construction details sheet, identifying keynotes and symbols for different technology cablings and installations.
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Enrollment required
Technology Coax Cable Riser Diagrams
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
2:36
Review the coax cabling riser diagram and understand the distribution of coax cables throughout the building.
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Enrollment required
Specifications Standard Specifications Format
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
5:01
Discuss the organization of project specifications using Master Format, which categorizes construction requirements, products, and activities into 48 divisions for communication and coordination among industry professionals.
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Enrollment required
Specifications Standard Specifications Part 01
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
1:59
Review the specifications document, focusing on the general section, references codes, quality assurance, warranties, and project conditions.
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Enrollment required
Specifications Standard Specifications Part 02
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
3:19
Detailing approved products for concrete applications, including concrete cleaning, patch repair, overlays, casting, accessories, pigmentation, and coatings.
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Enrollment required
Specifications Standard Specifications Part 03
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
2:06
Summarize project specifications into three sections: general, product, and execution, covering topics like installation, examination, coordination, field quality control, final cleaning, protection, and maintenance.
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Enrollment required
Closing Instructor Thoughts
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications
1:51
Complete the course completion survey and provide feedback to help improve future courses.
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Residential Blueprint Reading Course Online
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Welcome to the Course
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
1:43
Learn how to understand and read blueprints for residential construction.
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Symbols
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
8:08
Identify and follow symbols on floor plans to locate detailed information in schedules and other drawings.
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Enrollment required
Doors and Windows
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
5:17
Analyze and interpret floor plan drawings to understand door and window configurations.
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Enrollment required
Dimensions Part 1
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
3:23
Discussing dimensions on architectural and engineering drawings, including the use of extension lines, dimension lines, indicators, and dimension text.
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Enrollment required
Dimensions Part 2
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
5:58
Study the dimensions provided in the building plan to understand the layout and measurements accurately.
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Enrollment required
Standard Views
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
3:23
Explain the differences between floor plans, building elevations, building sections, wall sections, and details.
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Enrollment required
Construction Document Set Organization
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
4:13
Organize a set of blueprints or construction documents in a specific order for submission to regulatory agencies.
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Enrollment required
Stairs
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
7:01
Analyze different stair drawings to understand their layout and configuration.
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Enrollment required
Paper Size
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
3:23
Identify standard paper sizes for architectural drawings in an engineering office: eight and a half by eleven, eleven by seventeen, twenty-two by thirty-four, and thirty by forty-two.
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Enrollment required
Scale
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
5:47
Draw architectural blueprints using various scale factors to accurately represent dimensions in different parts of a building.
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Title Sheet
Topic 2: Title Sheet & Floor Plans
10:00
Review the construction documents for one residence, including architectural drawings, structural drawings, mechanical drawings, and plumbing drawings for plan one.
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Floor Plan Part 1
Topic 2: Title Sheet & Floor Plans
6:28
Examine the first floor plan for the residence, focusing on the dimensions, scale, and symbols.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plan Part 2
Topic 2: Title Sheet & Floor Plans
5:12
Take a virtual tour of the house from the garage to the master bedroom, showcasing key features and details such as double doors, bedrooms with closets, Jack and Jill bathrooms, and interior elevation symbols for further details.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plan Part 3
Topic 2: Title Sheet & Floor Plans
4:01
Explain finished material legend for different rooms in the building.
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Interior Elevations Door and Window Schedules
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Schedules
6:05
Review and analyze the interior elevation sheet, focusing on key elements such as cabinet door details, door and window schedules, and glazing specifications.
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Building Sections and Roof Plan
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Schedules
3:42
Review and analyze the building sections and roof plan details for accurate representation and keynotes consistency.
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Enrollment required
Building Elevations
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Schedules
3:47
Review the building elevations sheet to understand the keynotes, plate elevations, and details provided for each element in the drawing.
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Wall Sections
Topic 4: Wall Sections & Details
5:54
Review wall sections and details to understand building components and construction details.
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Details and Hardscape
Topic 4: Wall Sections & Details
3:40
Examine details and hardscape plans on sheets 9-1 and 9-2, referencing window sill conditions and dimensions for construction.
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Structural Drawings Part 1
Topic 5: Structural Drawings
4:47
Reviewing structural notes and calculations submitted by the structural engineer for appropriate design and load-bearing requirements for the building construction project.
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Structural Drawings Part 2
Topic 5: Structural Drawings
4:36
Show foundation details, reinforcing bar bending schedule, and framing details in structural engineering drawings.
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Enrollment required
Structural Drawings Part 3
Topic 5: Structural Drawings
4:13
Review the foundation plan, noting the structural grids, detailed sections, and dimension anchoring for effective communication and coordination during construction.
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Enrollment required
Structural Drawings Part 4
Topic 5: Structural Drawings
3:50
Examine the structural drawings with details referencing other information within the set.
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Mechanical Drawings
Topic 6: Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing
3:52
Examine MEP mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings with schedules, symbols, and details for installation purposes.
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Electrical Drawings
Topic 6: Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing
5:49
Review and analyze the electrical drawings for the project, focusing on symbols, abbreviations, lighting fixture schedule, and construction notes.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Drawings Fixtures
Topic 6: Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing
2:40
Plumbing drawings include fixtures, connections, and venting details for various plumbing elements like sinks, toilets, and tubs, as well as corresponding piping sizes and descriptions in the fixture schedule and legend.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Drawings Domestic Water and Gas Lines
Topic 6: Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing
2:35
The plumbing drawing shows domestic water and gas lines branching to different fixtures like bathtub, sink, toilet, oven, range, forced air unit, dryer, and hot water heater.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Drawings Isometrics
Topic 6: Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing
2:47
Isometric drawings show the layout of domestic water and gas lines in the house, indicating how the pipes should be installed above ceilings and dropping down as needed.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Drawings Waste Lines
Topic 6: Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing
3:52
Review the detailed mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings, including symbols, abbreviations, code requirements, schedules, and plan drawings presented in residential and commercial projects, with isometrics for clarity and installation.
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TS1 Title Sheet Part 1
Topic 7: Title Sheet
6:20
Review the title sheet TS 1.0 of the residential project in San Diego County for building permit and regulatory agency requirements.
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Title Sheet Part 2
Topic 7: Title Sheet
1:56
Include fire notes, general notes, vicinity map, and other required information on the title sheet cover for regulatory compliance.
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Enrollment required
TS1 Title Sheet Part 3
Topic 7: Title Sheet
5:38
Review the site plan for the house, noting the property lines, setbacks, and meets and bounds information, illustrating the dimensions and angles of the property boundaries.
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Enrollment required
TS1 Title Sheet Part 4
Topic 7: Title Sheet
4:21
Review the site plan with dimensions, setbacks, and fuel modification zone.
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TS2, TS3 and T24 Sheets
Topic 8: Architectural Site Plans
4:24
Include regulatory agency-required information, such as general notes, fire protection notes, storm water quality notes, and mechanical notes in the construction documents, along with construction specifications and nailing schedules to adhere to building code requirements.
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Architectural Site Plans AS1 and AS2
Topic 8: Architectural Site Plans
3:54
Continue with the architectural site plan, showcasing more detailed information and keynotes for regulatory agencies to understand the property layout and topography, with enlarged plans on sheets AS1 and AS2.
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Enrollment required
Architectural Site Plans AS2
Topic 8: Architectural Site Plans
2:06
Revise documents to address regulatory agency checklist items by adding necessary information and annotations, ready for resubmission.
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Floor Plans Overview
Topic 9: Floor Plans
1:59
Review the floor plan documents for a house with three floors, including the basement/ground level, first floor, and second floor, with the orientation of the house correctly aligned on the site and garage entrances indicated on the plans.
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Floor Plans Level 1 Part 1
Topic 9: Floor Plans
2:57
Zoom in on the house plan to show garage doors, mudroom, elevator, stairs, and guest room/bonus area with keynotes indicating specific details and revisions.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plans Level 1 Part 2
Topic 9: Floor Plans
4:01
Explain dimensions and construction details in a building drawing.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plans Sections
Topic 9: Floor Plans
2:39
Examine the symbols on the floor plan and refer to corresponding sections in the document for more detailed information.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plans Level 2
Topic 9: Floor Plans
3:04
Zoom back to the previous page to see the steps leading up to the butler's pantry, living room, and guest quarters with a feature wall and deck.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plans Scale
Topic 9: Floor Plans
2:54
Review and analyze the basement plan on sheet A2.2, noting key revisions, scale considerations, and wall representations for accurate documentation.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plans Level 2 Part 2
Topic 9: Floor Plans
3:13
Examine building sections and interior elevations for detailed information on room layouts and materials.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plans The Deck
Topic 9: Floor Plans
2:38
Zoom in to the deck area and observe the standard stud walls, French doors, and detail callouts referencing other images in the set for more information.
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Enrollment required
Floor Plans Level 3
Topic 9: Floor Plans
3:00
Review the floor plans and proceed to the building sections for further analysis.
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Building Sections Part 1
Topic 10: Building Sections & Elevations
4:16
Examine building sections on sheet A4.1 for detailed vertical dimensions and datum symbols, referencing specific detail sheets for enlarged information.
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Building Sections Part 2
Topic 10: Building Sections & Elevations
3:35
Trace information across a set of drawings by referencing building section indicators, images, keynotes, and symbols to understand the construction details effectively.
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Enrollment required
Building Sections Part 3
Topic 10: Building Sections & Elevations
1:15
Review the building sections and keynotes provided on the pages to understand the information conveyed.
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Enrollment required
Building Elevations
Topic 10: Building Sections & Elevations
3:58
Review the building elevations for consistency and accuracy, ensuring all dimensions and keynotes are properly referenced.
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Interior Elevations Part 1
Topic 11: Interior Elevations & Roof Plan
2:56
Review and analyze interior elevations to understand the layout and design of the project.
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Interior Elevations Part 2
Topic 11: Interior Elevations & Roof Plan
2:11
Specify window dimensions and glazing type for bid and energy calculations, excluding interior finish details.
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Enrollment required
Roof Plan
Topic 11: Interior Elevations & Roof Plan
3:28
Review and analyze the roof plan for sheet A6.1.
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Details Part 1
Topic 12: Details, Schedules & Electrical
3:04
Review and organize office details from various libraries, including standard, construction-specific, and project-specific details.
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Details Part 2
Topic 12: Details, Schedules & Electrical
4:04
Detail pages in architectural drawings present information at different scales to best communicate important details for construction.
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Enrollment required
Details Part 3
Topic 12: Details, Schedules & Electrical
3:28
Reviewing and incorporating project-specific details from standard libraries to enhance construction documentation.
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Enrollment required
Door and Window Schedule
Topic 12: Details, Schedules & Electrical
2:10
Analyze the Title 24 page and present door and window schedules to the regulatory agency for energy efficiency calculations and procurement purposes.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Drawings
Topic 12: Details, Schedules & Electrical
2:04
Review and interpret the electrical sheets in the construction documents for a custom residential project to understand layout and requirements for regulatory compliance during construction.
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Enrollment required
Instructor Thoughts
Topic 12: Details, Schedules & Electrical
2:17
Complete the Blueprint Reading for Residential Construction course.
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Intro to Construction Estimating Course Online
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Learning Objectives
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
1:57
Learn how to estimate a construction project by understanding quantity takeoffs, master format, cost categories, project conditions, and bid delivery.
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Resources and Standard Files
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
1:34
Discuss the files for the construction project and prepare for estimating.
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Enrollment required
What is Estimating
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
2:49
Estimating involves making approximations or predictions based on available information or experience.
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Enrollment required
Purposes for Estimating
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
1:32
Estimate construction projects for bidding, building, expansion, remodeling, repairs, and financial requirements.
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Enrollment required
Skills Required to be an Estimator
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
2:11
Mastering construction estimating requires skills such as reading plans, quantifying building components, understanding construction methods, assessing risks, and utilizing computer software for accurate calculations.
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Enrollment required
Estimating Tools
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
3:00
Discuss professional estimating tools commonly used in the industry, including spreadsheets, on-screen takeoff software, master format, cost data, and database-driven estimating software.
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Estimating Spreadsheets
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
2:59
Utilize Excel's formulas to calculate and track project costs efficiently.
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Enrollment required
Spreadsheet Best Practices
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
1:17
Remember to input data in cells, ensure consistent purpose and format for columns, avoid hidden rows or columns, use original data sources for calculations, keep formulas in cells for reference, include a notes column, and save templates with new names before using them.
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Steps Required to Create an Estimate
Topic 1: Introduction - What is Estimating?
2:18
Create a professional estimate by reviewing documents, preparing a quantity takeoff, organizing quantities, providing unit costs, developing project durations, adding overhead markups, checking for errors, and completing the bid form.
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Definitions and Terminology Pt 1
Topic 2: Definitions & Abbreviations
3:40
Discuss definitions, terminology, and abbreviations of construction and their impact on the field and class.
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Definitions and Terminology Pt 2
Topic 2: Definitions & Abbreviations
1:36
Address the calculations, function symbols, and numeric formatting to ensure clarity and consistency.
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Enrollment required
Definitions and Terminology Pt 3
Topic 2: Definitions & Abbreviations
4:32
Understand variables, work breakdown structures, general conditions, general requirements, on-site work, markup, and measurement types.
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Definitions and Terminology Pt 4
Topic 2: Definitions & Abbreviations
2:31
Discussing labor measurement and categorization, including man hours, resources, crews, and crew hours.
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Abbreviations
Topic 2: Definitions & Abbreviations
5:37
Learn and understand construction industry abbreviations and acronyms to facilitate communication and understanding in the field.
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Units of Measure Pt 1
Topic 3: Units of Measure
2:39
This section discusses various units of measure commonly used in estimating, such as feet, square feet, cubic feet, yards, pounds, tons, months, weeks, and hours. It emphasizes consistency in using either uppercase or lowercase letters for units of measure and provides examples of abbreviations, like EA for each.
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Units of Measure Examples
Topic 3: Units of Measure
3:34
Calculate the cubic yardage for concrete footings and square footage for slab on grade using length, width, and depth measurements.
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Units of Measure Common Designations
Topic 3: Units of Measure
8:17
Identify units of measure for different construction materials and processes.
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Organizing the Takeoff with MasterFormat
Topic 4: The Takeoff
3:52
Organize the takeoff using Master Format levels for estimating.
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Set Scale for Takeoff
Topic 4: The Takeoff
1:26
Validate, test, and adjust all required scales to ensure accuracy for accurate takeoff measurements.
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Takeoff Example
Topic 4: The Takeoff
4:06
Identify hidden conditions and quantify missing areas in building plans for accurate estimation.
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Feet and Inches vs Feet and Decimal
Topic 4: The Takeoff
4:28
Convert feet and inches measurements into decimal feet for ease of pricing estimates accurately in Excel.
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Measurement Types Imperial vs Metric
Topic 4: The Takeoff
1:37
Understand the conversion between imperial and metric measurements for practical applications.
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Associating Takeoff items to estimate
Topic 4: The Takeoff
3:26
Associate takeoff items with estimate by referencing sheet S2 to identify footings utilized, ensuring clear identification and migration of information from drawings to quantity takeoff and estimate, establishing a clear relationship between drawings, takeoff, and estimate to facilitate understanding and tracking of line items.
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MasterFormat Alternatives
Topic 4: The Takeoff
1:55
Examine various format types like OmniClass and MasterFormat, essential for construction industry projects.
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MasterFormat Level Four
Topic 4: The Takeoff
1:39
Organize estimate rows by master format with clearly defined codes ranging from levels one through level four, including specific examples and the use of level four for deeper item identification in estimating spreadsheets.
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Pricing Resources
Topic 5: Pricing Resources
3:58
Find construction costs of common materials by utilizing resources such as Harvest Means, Bluebook, vendors, and warehouse stores.
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Pricing Methods and Techniques
Topic 5: Pricing Resources
4:37
Identify unit pricing for different materials and subcontractor pricing to estimate project costs accurately.
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Assemblies
Topic 5: Pricing Resources
2:24
Utilize assemblies in construction to streamline pricing and speed up the process.
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Cost Categories Overview
Topic 6: Cost Categories
1:34
Organize estimate into cost categories for allocation of estimated costs based on labor, material, equipment, or subcontractor involvement.
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Estimating Labor Cost
Topic 6: Cost Categories
4:21
Estimate labor costs by calculating hourly rates, crew sizes, and productivity per hour for effective installation.
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Labor Cost Factors
Topic 6: Cost Categories
3:03
Consider labor shortages, prevailing wage rates, weather conditions, compressed schedules, and client constraints to manage labor costs effectively.
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Estimating Material Costs
Topic 6: Cost Categories
1:45
Understand material pricing by considering different unit measures and sizes for purchasing various materials, such as concrete, lumber, gypsum board, plaster, and paint.
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Material Cost Factors
Topic 6: Cost Categories
2:41
Review factors impacting material costs, such as availability, unit size, delivery costs, expiration dates, waste factors, and guidelines for pricing materials.
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Estimating Equipment Costs
Topic 6: Cost Categories
2:04
Estimate equipment costs by considering the equipment needed, duration of use, and operator requirements, ensuring productivity and rental periods are accurately defined.
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Equipment Cost Factors
Topic 6: Cost Categories
1:40
Secure or reserve equipment in advance to ensure availability, understand required size for backhoes and cranes, consider mobilization costs and proper egress for equipment on site.
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Estimating Subcontractor Costs
Topic 6: Cost Categories
3:15
Subcontractors submit trade-specific bids for their scope of work, which are incorporated into the general contractor's overall estimate for the project.
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Subcontractor Cost Factors
Topic 6: Cost Categories
2:56
Consider project-specific variables when evaluating subcontractor pricing, such as equipment inclusion, scope of work coverage, trade delays impact, long lead items consideration, schedule adequacy, and providing project schedule to subcontractors.
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Example Questions for Subcontractors
Topic 6: Cost Categories
5:02
Ask subcontractors questions to clarify scope of work, such as whether concrete subcontractors cover structural or site concrete, if reinforcing steel is included, where rough carpentry ends, which subs provide doors for storefront systems, who handles floor tile, if electrical contractors provide low voltage services, who hauls off excavation spoils, how many bids to get, and estimating trade costs before receiving subquotes.
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Cost Category Levels
Topic 6: Cost Categories
1:45
Create detailed cost breakdowns in construction estimating to provide comprehensive information for easier understanding and analysis.
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Work Breakdown Structure Codes
Topic 7: The Estimate
2:09
Identify and assign WBS codes to estimate items for proper organization and cost breakdown.
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Estimating Spreadsheet Structure
Topic 7: The Estimate
5:51
Summarize the Excel estimate structure by organizing phase, item number, take-off quantity, labor cost, material cost, equipment cost, subcontractor cost, total cost unit, and total amount calculations for each category.
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Line Item Example Laminated Beams
Topic 7: The Estimate
2:38
Examine the spreadsheet and analyze the pricing breakdown for laminated beams with specific dimensions and additional labor and material costs for the radius.
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Line Item Example Specialties
Topic 7: The Estimate
2:44
Examine Division 10,000 Specialties with three items and labor and material costs, including shower doors, toilet accessories, and wood shelving.
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Line item Example Earthwork
Topic 7: The Estimate
2:27
Review and verify the estimate for earthwork to ensure accuracy and consistency in calculations and quantities.
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Estimate Cost Totals
Topic 7: The Estimate
1:05
Review and verify estimate cost totals for labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor in the spreadsheet to ensure accuracy before moving on to markups and add-ons.
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Scheduling & Project Duration
Topic 8: Project Considerations
4:05
Evaluate project schedule to determine required durations for estimating purposes, considering factors like difficulty, congestion, and weather impacts to accurately calculate costs and profit margins.
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General Conditions
Topic 8: Project Considerations
2:49
Discussing the definition and importance of general conditions in construction projects, including the various costs associated with managing and operating a project.
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Hard Costs
Topic 8: Project Considerations
2:20
Determine hard costs before adding markups and add-ons for construction projects.
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Overhead
Topic 8: Project Considerations
1:47
Establish total hard costs for the project before adding any additional markups or add-ons, and check with company management to determine the actual overhead costs.
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Markup
Topic 8: Project Considerations
4:15
Evaluate actual project costs to compare against estimated costs to identify discrepancies and adjust future estimates for accurate pricing.
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Markup and Add on Order
Topic 8: Project Considerations
2:34
Add overhead costs before markups to ensure accurate pricing and accounting analysis.
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Adjusting for Risk Contingencies
Topic 8: Project Considerations
3:08
Identify potential risks, allocate additional funds as contingencies, and ensure profitability by covering all project costs.
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Unknown Conditions
Topic 8: Project Considerations
2:40
Factor in potential contingencies such as incomplete drawings, weather delays, and material cost inflation to your project estimates.
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Potential Costs
Topic 8: Project Considerations
1:08
Adjust for risk by considering potential costs such as inflation, expiration of labor agreements requiring higher rates, and increases in material prices not purchased by a given date.
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Travel Expenses
Topic 8: Project Considerations
0:50
Consider geographic location impact on labor rates and travel expenses, including providing per diem for out-of-town staff and subcontractors incurring additional costs for lodging, meals, and mileage.
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Validating Scales
Topic 9: Validation
2:26
Verify drawing scales for accuracy and test dimensions against known measurements to ensure correct quantities in the estimate.
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100% Check
Topic 9: Validation
3:11
Validate and cross-check calculations in spreadsheet estimates to ensure accuracy and prevent errors.
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Other Validation Methods
Topic 9: Validation
3:27
Analyze and compare estimate costs to similar projects to validate current project pricing.
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Cover Sheet Elements
Topic 10: Estimate Cover Sheet, Recap & Instructor Thoughts
3:15
Create a comprehensive cover sheet for estimates by including project name, location, proposal date, client company name and contact information, estimator's name, estimate amount, scope of work specifying trades, plans and specifications date, inclusions, exclusions, alternates, and assumptions.
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Bid Form Example
Topic 10: Estimate Cover Sheet, Recap & Instructor Thoughts
7:51
Fill out the bid form by adding dollar amounts to the client-provided form. Include project name, bid date and time (with time zone), project start date, send proposals via email as PDFs, point of contact information, project duration, base bid amount, bond amount, and alternates. Standalone pricing for alternates should be accepted or not at the beginning of the project. List any inclusions, exclusions, and assumptions if allowed. Clarify any unclear items in inclusions and exclusions.
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Enrollment required
Final Bid Form Delivery
Topic 10: Estimate Cover Sheet, Recap & Instructor Thoughts
2:01
Deliver bid form cover sheet with references to bid documents, use provided forms, and submit as a PDF for record-keeping.
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Recap of Sequences to Develop an Estimate
Topic 10: Estimate Cover Sheet, Recap & Instructor Thoughts
1:38
Develop an estimate by confirming bid requirements, performing quantity takeoff, entering items into spreadsheet, establishing schedule, preparing general conditions, applying fees and markup, checking for errors, and delivering estimate on time.
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Instructor Thoughts
Topic 10: Estimate Cover Sheet, Recap & Instructor Thoughts
0:57
Consider pursuing a professional career in construction estimating for valuable skills and career opportunities in the building professions.
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Curriculum
What you'll learn
- Identify soil types, site preparation, utilities, earthwork, and foundation installation, along with the crews and heavy equipment involved
- Explain how structural systems carry load, including crane use on site and how building loads are analyzed in design
- Assess building envelope performance, including moisture control, temperature regulation, cold-formed steel studs, cladding, roofing, and window systems
- Identify interior wall types and partitions, drywall, finishes, paint, flooring, ceilings, casework, and specialty installations
- Describe MEP systems, including thermal comfort, indoor air quality, HVAC controls, plumbing, electrical distribution, and emergency power
- Describe fire suppression and alarm systems, elevators, commissioning, and post-occupancy turnover
Course outline
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Site Utilities & Foundation Construction Course Online 10 hours
Gain a comprehensive understanding of site preparation, earthwork, and foundation installation in this hands-on course. Learn about the roles of the construction team, various soil conditions, heavy equipment, and the necessary steps to install site utilities and foundations.
- Key concepts of site utilities, including water, sewer, and drainage systems.
- Best practices for planning and performing earthwork, such as excavation, soil compaction, and grading.
- Detailed overview of foundation systems, including shallow and deep foundations.
- How to analyze and interpret soil reports to guide foundational decisions.
- Methods for ensuring site safety and compliance with construction codes and standards.
- Techniques for coordinating utility installations with other site development activities.
- Insights into sustainable site development to minimize environmental impact.
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Building Structure Course Online 10 hours
Explore the key components of building structure design, including cranes, structural systems, and the materials used in construction. This course offers an in-depth study of cast-in-place concrete, precast concrete, steel, masonry, and tilt-up concrete and teaches you how these elements contribute to a safe and stable building.
- Understand how structural systems support and distribute loads.
- Key concepts of material properties, such as strength, durability, and load-bearing capacities.
- Techniques for assessing structural stability and identifying potential risks.
- How to interpret structural drawings and effectively communicate with engineers and construction teams.
- The principles of sustainable building practices to optimize performance and reduce environmental impact.
- Real-world applications of structural codes and regulations for safety and compliance.
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Building Enclosure Course Online 10 hours
Gain an understanding of the building envelope, including its role in protecting the structure and controlling temperature and humidity. This course covers components like cold-formed steel stud systems, cladding, curtain walls, roofing, and glass window systems.
- Understanding the primary functions and components of building enclosures (walls, roofs, foundations).
- Controlling thermal, moisture, and air flow to improve energy efficiency.
- Selecting appropriate materials based on climate, budget, and building use.
- Identifying and addressing common issues like moisture intrusion and thermal bridging.
- Implementing sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact.
- Collaborating effectively with professionals to optimize building enclosure performance.
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Interiors & Finish Work Course Online 10 hours
Gain the knowledge and skills necessary to manage the interior and finish work of construction projects. Learn about wall types, drywall finishes, and the construction sequencing involved in interiors, asphalt paving, and landscaping.
- Overview of Building Interiors and Finish Processes: Learn about the intricate steps involved in completing building interiors, from drywall installation to painting, millwork, and flooring.
- Site Finishing Components and Landscaping: Understand the principles of exterior site work, including paving, hardscapes, landscaping, and site furniture installation.
- Material Selection and Application: Explore the variety of materials used in finishes, their properties, and their best applications to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Coordination and Communication Skills: Master the techniques needed to communicate effectively with design, construction, and subcontractor teams to execute finishing phases seamlessly.
- Quality Assurance and Inspection Standards: Gain expertise in assessing project quality, ensuring compliance with design specifications, and performing final inspections.
- Budgeting and Scheduling for Finishes: Learn to manage budgets and timelines specific to the finishing phases of a construction project.
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Fundamentals of MEP for Buildings Course Online 20 hours
Explore the essential systems that make buildings function, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and AV-Tel-Data systems. Gain a deep understanding of thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and emergency power systems.
- Mechanical Systems: Discover the fundamentals of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and how these systems contribute to occupant comfort and building performance.
- Electrical Systems: Explore the components of building electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, and low voltage systems such as AV, telecom, and data.
- Plumbing Systems: Learn the principles of water supply, drainage, and waste systems and their role in maintaining hygiene and safety in buildings.
- Design Coordination: Understand how MEP systems integrate within a project and the importance of designing for efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.
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Building Construction Fire Protection Course Online 10 hours
Learn the critical steps for completing a construction project, including fire protection systems, building commissioning, and the final stages of testing, turnover, and occupancy requirements.
- Designing and installing fire protection systems, including wet-pipe and dry-pipe suppression systems.
- Conducting startup, testing, and inspection of fire protection systems.
- Understanding fire safety regulations and ensuring compliance.
- Documenting system performance and ensuring quality assurance.
- Troubleshooting and resolving issues during system commissioning.
- Communicating effectively with engineers, inspectors, and stakeholders.
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Construction Materials Course Online 30 hours
Dive into the world of construction materials with this in-depth course covering everything from concrete foundations to innovative green materials. Gain the skills to evaluate, select, and apply materials in residential and commercial projects.
- Understand the properties and uses of construction materials, including concrete, steel, wood, and more
- Explore the latest innovations in sustainable and green construction materials
- Learn how to evaluate and select the appropriate materials for various project requirements
- Gain practical knowledge on applying materials effectively in both residential and commercial contexts
- Develop skills to assess material performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness
- Discover industry trends and best practices for using materials in modern construction projects
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Commercial Blueprint Reading Course Online 20 hours
Gain the skills to read construction blueprints for mixed-use commercial projects, including hotels, retail spaces, and parking structures, with an emphasis on interrelationships between drawings and how 3D models simplify construction documents.
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical plans used in mixed-use commercial construction projects
- Learn to read and interpret industry-standard symbols, notations, legends, and technical details across construction documents
- Evaluate how different drawing sets relate to one another when submitted for building permits
- Work hands-on with real-world commercial construction drawings and documentation
- Apply blueprint knowledge to cost estimating, project planning, and maintaining on-site accuracy during construction
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Residential Blueprint Reading Course Online 10 hours
Learn the fundamentals of blueprint reading for residential construction, from understanding drawing types to interpreting complex construction documents, to gain a solid foundation for your career in the construction industry.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the inter-relationship between the drawings included in a set of Construction Documents (blueprints).
- Analyze different drawings and see how scale is presented throughout a set of Construction Documents.
- Evaluate the similarities between all sets of blueprint construction documents submitted for building permits.
- Recognize the need for consistency in presenting information in all types of Construction Documents in this online blueprint reading course.
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Intro to Construction Estimating Course Online 20 hours
Learn the fundamentals of construction estimating, including types of estimates, quantity takeoffs, pricing strategies, and cost estimate proposals.
- Understand the fundamentals of construction estimating for residential and commercial projects.
- Learn to interpret architectural and structural plans to extract relevant cost-related data.
- Master different types of estimates, such as conceptual, preliminary, and detailed estimating.
- Gain insight into quantity surveying, estimating takeoffs, labor costs, equipment costs, and contingency planning.
- Explore industry-standard tools and software used for creating precise cost estimations.
- Develop problem-solving skills to analyze discrepancies and mitigate cost overruns effectively.
Course Reviews
Is this course right for you?
Consider this course if you are entering construction or want to connect your field experience to a broader picture of the building process. If you already understand building systems and need scheduling, budgeting and coordination tools, compare the construction management course.
Are the extra blueprint and estimating courses required?
No. VDCI lists commercial blueprint reading, residential blueprint reading and introductory construction estimating as optional bonus choices. Students may take up to two of those electives in addition to the core construction fundamentals sequence.