A Firm Foundation

This CE course guides architects through the critical decisions involved in designing high-performance floor assemblies — from foundations to finish flooring — with a focus on moisture control, material selection, and long-term structural integrity.

🕒 2  CE HOURS     

CREDIT DESIGNATION: LU|HSW           

Date of course creation/update: 04/23/2026

Course Approval NO: 182MCAR

Education Pathways, LLC provider #10121561, is approved as an AIA Continuing Education Provider by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. AIA provider approval period: 02/05/2026–02/05/2027. Architects completing this course receive 2 continuing education credit as designated by AIA.

This online reading-based asynchronous distance learning course :

Explores the parameters architects must consider when designing and specifying floor assemblies. Beginning at grade level and extending to finish flooring, participants will examine how early material choices impact durability, moisture resistance, and occupant health. The course covers foundation options, framing systems, vapor management strategies, insulation, subflooring, underlayment, and finish flooring. Special emphasis is placed on preventing mold, avoiding “moisture sandwich” conditions, and ensuring compliance with evolving codes and standards. By the end, architects will be equipped to design resilient, climate-appropriate assemblies that serve as a firm foundation for the entire building.

 

Learning Objectives:

 

  1. Identify system components in a high-performance floor assembly, including grade, crawl space, vapor retarder, framing, insulation, subfloor, underlayment, and finish flooring.

  2. Explain evolving codes and how new materials influence subflooring system design.

  3. Recognize vapor drive principles and strategies to prevent moisture intrusion.

  4. Differentiate fastener types used to combine flooring assembly components.

  5. Evaluate insulation strategies for climate separation and performance.

  6. Assess finish flooring options based on permeability, durability, and installation requirements. 

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TOP FEATURES:-

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$189.99 USD every year

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Frequently Asked Questions About this Class

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to [email protected] or call us on: +1 239-544-0606  

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Visual Support

All lesson content includes high-quality captions and fully searchable transcripts for easy reference and accessibility.

Learning Pace

Need extra time for assignments? We offer flexible pacing options.

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FAQs About Our Online Classes in General

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to [email protected] or call us on: +1 239-544-0606Â