While this hurricane season hasn’t been as devastating as last year’s, so far, the threat of a destructive storm is ever with us, particularly in the Southeast and Gulf States. The interest in hurricane-compliant construction has mushroomed with the increasing frequency of codes that impact this topic.

Fortunately, there are a number of AIA-continuing education courses which are designed to provide information on hurricane construction. Here is a selection of courses on the subject by members of the architectural glass and metal industry.

Hurricane-Resistant Glass 
Viracon Inc.
This course includes a discussion of the features and limitations of hurricane-resistant glazing products and testing requirements for coastal regions.
LU hours: 1.5
Õ 800/533-2080 or www.viracon.com

Hurricane Protection for Windows and Doors
Pella Corp.
The program is structured to teach architects about hurricane protection for windows. A number of questions are answered during the seminar: What do building owners want? Why is protection needed? Where is it needed? What do the building codes require? How can architects design for hurricane protection? What product options and installation systems are available? What should the specifications say? 
LU hours: 1
Õ 641/621-6272 or www.pellacommercial.com

Hurricane Windloading and Impact Resistance
Kawneer Company Inc.
The course explains the difference between standard building codes ASCE 7-88 and ASCE 7-95, as well as the importance of the proper code being specified; and how the differences in the codes impact the design windload pressures for a particular building. The testing procedure and design requirements to minimize public and private losses due to wind and windborne debris are also discussed.
LU hours: 1
Õ 770/449-5555 or www.kawneer.com

Designing for Hurricane Protection
Arch Aluminum and Glass Co.
The course focuses on designing and specifying impact resistant glazing systems to maximize hurricane protection. It is designed to help architects specify the right product, in the right size and feel confident that the product selected will meet the local and statewide building codes. The course is customized with impact code information to fit the needs of local firms throughout the country. In addition to covering impact resistant glass, it also provides architects with information on the framing, sealants and fasteners needed to adequate support the system, and testing requirements. 
LU hours: 1
Õ 866/629-2724 or www.arch.amarlite.com

Laminated Glass for Hurricane Glazing
AFG Industries Inc.
The course discusses the use of laminated glass in hurricane-resistant glazings including a history of storm protection, the importance of maintaining the building envelope, code requirements, test standards and system testing. Also reviewed are the benefits of laminated glass for safety, sound control, and solar control.
LU hours: 1
Õ 423/229-7266 or www.afgglass.com

Designing for Hurricane Protection
Solutia Inc.
The course covers how hurricanes affect structures, building code requirements and standards, options for code-approved windows and doors and designing with laminated glass.
LU hours: 1
Õ 248/740-0488 or www.solutia.com

Understanding Building Codes and Windborne Debris Mitigation
YKK AP America Inc.
The course discusses the International Building Code (IBC) and Florida Building Code requirements for hurricane impact resistant glazing systems.
LU hours: 1
Õ 678/838-6000 or www.ykkap.com

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