Episodes

  • 056 - Building Acoustics: How Sound Actually Works in Buildings

    056 - Building Acoustics: How Sound Actually Works in Buildings
    Mar 2 2026

    # Libsyn Description

    Building acoustics explained: learn how sound actually works in buildings and the three critical rating systems every architect needs to know. We cover STC, IIC, NRC, decibels, and Hertz, everything you need for the ARE and real-world architecture.

    Building acoustics is one of those topics that trips people up because there are multiple rating systems that measure completely different things. In this episode, we break down all of them so they actually make sense. STC (Sound Transmission Class) rates how well walls and floors block airborne sound like voices and music. IIC (Impact Insulation Class) rates how well floor assemblies block impact sounds like footsteps. And NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) measures how much sound a material absorbs within a room.

    You'll learn why the IBC requires both STC 50 and IIC 50 between dwelling units, how to upgrade a basic wall assembly step by step, and why a material can be great at absorbing sound but terrible at blocking it. We also cover flanking paths, common spec mistakes, and when to bring in an acoustics consultant.

    Key topics covered:
    - Decibels, Hertz, and how sound is measured
    - STC ratings: blocking airborne sound through walls
    - IIC ratings: blocking impact sound through floors
    - NRC ratings: absorbing sound within a room
    - IBC Section 1207 requirements (STC 50 and IIC 50 between dwelling units)
    - Wall assembly upgrades: mass, insulation, decoupling, and sealing
    - Flanking paths and penetration details
    - Common acoustic specification mistakes

    ⏱️ Chapters:
    (0:00) Introduction
    (1:28) Free Study Guide
    (2:34) Why Sound Matters in Buildings
    (4:17) Decibels: How We Measure Loudness
    (6:58) Hertz: How We Measure Pitch
    (8:17) STC: Sound Transmission Class
    (16:07) IIC: Impact Insulation Class
    (20:34) NRC: Noise Reduction Coefficient
    (24:09) Bringing It All Together
    (26:31) Practical Tips and Common Scenarios
    (29:33) Acoustics Recap

    📖 Read the full blog post: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/building-acoustics/

    📝 Download the FREE 2-page Building Acoustics study guide: https://YoungArchitect.com/Acoustics

    🎯 Ready to pass the ARE and become a licensed architect? Get access to all our ARE Study Materials with the ARE 101 Membership: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-study-materials/

    📚 Individual Courses:
    - PPD 101 (Building Systems and Design): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-planning-and-design/
    - PDD 101 (Construction Documents and Specs): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-development-and-documentation/
    - Building Codes 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-building-codes-101/
    - Mechanical Systems 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-mechanical-systems-101/
    - CDT 101 (Construction Documents Technologist): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/cdt-exam-prep/
    - CCCA 101 (Construction Contract Administration): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/ccca-exam-prep/
    - PcM 101 (Practice Management): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-practice-management/
    - PjM 101 (Project Management): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-management/
    - CE 101 (Construction and Evaluation): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-construction-and-evaluation/
    - PA 101 (Programming and Analysis): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/programming-analysis-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/
    - AIA Contracts 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-aia-contracts-101/

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    32 mins
  • 055 - Control Joint vs Expansion Joint: Where the Cracks At?

    055 - Control Joint vs Expansion Joint: Where the Cracks At?
    Feb 23 2026
    Control joint vs expansion joint - what's the actual difference? We break down all four joint types you need to know for the ARE and the job site. Control joint vs expansion joint is one of those topics that trips people up because the terms sound so similar. But these joints are doing completely different things, and understanding those differences matters for the ARE and for real-world construction. In this episode, we break down four types of joints you'll encounter on the exam and on the job site: expansion joints, control joints, isolation joints, and construction joints. For each one, we cover what it does, where you'll see it in real construction, and how to remember the difference when you're under pressure on exam day. We also give you clear analogies and memory hooks so you're not just memorizing definitions that disappear five minutes later. By the end, you'll know exactly how to tell these joints apart and which ARE divisions they show up on, including PA, PPD, PDD, and CE. Key topics covered: Expansion joints and how they allow material movement Control joints and why you plan for cracks instead of preventing them Isolation joints and when complete separation is required Construction joints and how they relate to the work schedule The rebar test for telling isolation and construction joints apart Which ARE 5.0 divisions test each joint type Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 1:56 - Free Study Guide 2:51 - Expansion Joints 18:16 - Control Joints 13:44 - Isolation Joints 19:03 - Construction Joints 24:13 - Recapping Our Joints 27:35 - Wrap Up Episode Resources: Download free joint types study guide: https://youngarchitect.com/joints Ready to pass the ARE and become a licensed architect? Get access to all our ARE Study Materials with the ARE 101 Membership: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-study-materials/ Individual ARE Exam Courses: - Practice Management (PcM 101): https://youngarchitect.com/PcM101 - Project Management (PjM 101): https://youngarchitect.com/PjM101 - Construction & Evaluation (CE 101): https://youngarchitect.com/CE101 - Programming & Analysis (PA 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/programming-analysis-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/ - Project Planning & Design (PPD 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-planning-and-design/ - Project Development & Documentation (PDD 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-development-and-documentation/ - Building Codes 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-building-codes-101/ - Mechanical Systems 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-mechanical-systems-101/ - AIA Contracts 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-aia-contracts-101/ - Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ - Explore our CDT 101 course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/cdt-exam-prep/ - Pass the CCCA Certification with our course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/ccca-exam-prep/ Subscribe for weekly ARE exam prep content and join thousands of successful architects who've passed their exams with Young Architect!
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    29 mins
  • 054 - PcM, PjM, and CE: Understanding the Difference Before You Study

    054 - PcM, PjM, and CE: Understanding the Difference Before You Study
    Feb 16 2026
    PcM, PjM, and CE are three different exams, but most people study them without understanding what makes each one unique. This episode breaks down exactly what NCARB is testing on Practice Management, Project Management, and Construction and Evaluation so you can study smarter, not harder. Too many ARE candidates jump into prep materials without ever looking at what each exam actually focuses on, and that leads to wasted time and confusion. PcM zooms out to the firm level. It's about business operations, finances, risk, and how an architecture practice stays profitable. PjM zooms into one project. You've got a signed contract, a team, and a schedule to manage through the design phases. CE picks up after the documents are done and construction begins. It's about administering the construction contract and making sure what gets built matches what was designed. We also cover where these exams overlap (contracts, risk, insurance, quality control, and project delivery methods all show up on all three), and why that overlap is actually good news for your study plan. Plus, there's a free homework assignment that ties it all together. Download the free study notes and homework assignment: https://youngarchitect.com/understandingpropractice Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 4:18 - Study Notes and We Need Your Help 5:21 - Why Start with the Pro Practice Exams? 6:30 - The Big Picture: What Ties These Three Exams Together 8:17 - PcM: Practice Management - Running the Firm 9:57 - PjM: Project Management - Managing the Project 12:13 - CE: Construction and Evaluation - On the Job Site 16:53 - How They Flow Together 18:06 - Study Strategy for the Pro Practice Exams 20:24 - Homework Assignment 21:41 - Conclusion Episode Resources: - Read the full blog post: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/understanding-pcm-pjm-and-ce Ready to pass the ARE and become a licensed architect? Get access to all our ARE Study Materials with the ARE 101 Membership: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-study-materials/ Individual ARE Exam Courses: - Practice Management (PcM 101): https://youngarchitect.com/PcM101 - Project Management (PjM 101): https://youngarchitect.com/PjM101 - Construction & Evaluation (CE 101): https://youngarchitect.com/CE101 - Programming & Analysis (PA 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/programming-analysis-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/ - Project Planning & Design (PPD 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-planning-and-design/ - Project Development & Documentation (PDD 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-development-and-documentation/ - Building Codes 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-building-codes-101/ - Mechanical Systems 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-mechanical-systems-101/ - AIA Contracts 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-aia-contracts-101/ - Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ - Explore our CDT 101 course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/cdt-exam-prep/ - Pass the CCCA Certification with our course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/ccca-exam-prep/ Subscribe for weekly ARE exam prep content and join thousands of successful architects who've passed their exams with Young Architect!
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    23 mins
  • 053 - Concrete Slab Types: A Guide to Structural Systems

    053 - Concrete Slab Types: A Guide to Structural Systems
    Feb 9 2026
    Six concrete slab types explained with span ranges, load capacities, and the decision framework you need to pick the right system every single time. Every concrete slab question on the ARE comes down to two things: the shape of your bay and the loads it needs to carry. But with six different systems to choose from, it's easy to second-guess yourself when the clock is ticking. In this episode, we break down all six structural slab systems from one-way solid slabs to waffle slabs. You'll learn the span ranges for each, the load conditions that drive your selection, and the visual cues that show up in exam questions. We cover why bay geometry matters more than anything else, how to tell the difference between a one-way joist and a waffle slab, and what punching shear has to do with flat plates vs flat slabs. Key topics covered: - One-way vs two-way classification using the aspect ratio test - One-way solid slabs (6-18 ft) and one-way joist slabs (20-30 ft) - Two-way slab with beams for square bays (15-40 ft) - Flat plate vs flat slab: when drop panels matter - Waffle slabs for long spans and architectural expression (24-54 ft) - Formwork cost comparison across all six systems - A quick decision framework for exam day This content is especially relevant for the PPD and PDD divisions of the ARE 5.0. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 2:10 - One-Way vs Two-Way: The Shape Test 4:45 - One-Way Slab 6:02 - One-Way Joist Slab 7:56 - Two-Way Slab With Beams 9:28 - Two-Way Flat Plate 12:04 - Flat Slab With Drop Panels 14:56 - Waffle Slab 17:46 - Putting It All Together 19:26 - Wrap-Up Episode Resources: - Download the free 2-page study guide: https://youngarchitect.com/slabs Ready to pass the ARE and become a licensed architect? Get access to all our ARE Study Materials with the ARE 101 Membership: https://youngarchitect.com/ARE101 Individual ARE Exam Courses: - Practice Management (PcM 101): https://youngarchitect.com/PcM101 - Project Management (PjM 101): https://youngarchitect.com/PjM101 - Construction & Evaluation (CE 101): https://youngarchitect.com/CE101 - Programming & Analysis (PA 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/programming-analysis-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/ - Project Planning & Design (PPD 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-planning-and-design/ - Project Development & Documentation (PDD 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-development-and-documentation/ - Building Codes 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-building-codes-101/ - Mechanical Systems 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-mechanical-systems-101/ - AIA Contracts 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-aia-contracts-101/ - Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ - Explore our CDT 101 course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/cdt-101/ Subscribe for weekly ARE exam prep content and join thousands of successful architects who've passed their exams with Young Architect!
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    22 mins
  • 052 - Cast-in-Place Concrete: From Spans to Slump Tests

    052 - Cast-in-Place Concrete: From Spans to Slump Tests
    Jan 26 2026
    Cast in place concrete spans, rebar sizing, slump tests, and when to reject a pour. Everything you need for PPD, PDD, CE, and PA exam questions. Understanding cast in place concrete is essential for multiple ARE divisions. This episode breaks down how concrete and rebar work together as a structural system, why span limitations matter for your architectural design, and what you need to know for construction observation questions. We cover the key concepts that show up on PPD when selecting structural systems, PDD when detailing and sizing components, CE when identifying non-conforming work, and PA when evaluating existing buildings. You'll learn typical span ranges for standard cast in place concrete (20-25 feet), how rebar sizing works in 1/8 inch increments, and why concrete excels in hurricane zones but presents challenges in seismic areas. Key topics covered: Concrete vs. rebar responsibilities (compression vs. tension)One-way slabs versus two-way slabsHoneycombing, spalling, and 45-degree shear cracksSlump tests and Kelly Ball testsCMU block versus cast in place concretePre-tensioned vs. post-tensioned systems Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 4:26 - When to Choose Concrete 7:26 - How Concrete Works 11:19 - Common Mistakes with Concrete 13:49 - Construction Observation 17:39 - Identifying Structural Failures 19:27 - CMU Block vs Cast-In-Place 21:57 - Pre-Tensioned and Post-Tensioned 26:14 - How to Use This on Exam Day 28:43 - Wrap Up Episode Resources: Full blogpost and free 2-page study notes: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/cast-in-place-concrete/ Want to cast in place concrete and other challenging technical concepts for your ARE preparation? Get access to all our ARE Study Materials with the ARE 101 Membership: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-study-materials/ 📚 Individual ARE Exam Courses: - Practice Management (PcM 101) https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-practice-management/ - Project Management (PjM 101) https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-management/ - Construction & Evaluation (CE 101) https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-construction-and-evaluation/ - Programming & Analysis (PA 101) https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/programming-analysis-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/ - Project Planning & Design (PPD 101) https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-planning-and-design/ - Project Development & Documentation (PDD 101) https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-development-and-documentation/ - Building Codes 101 https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-building-codes-101/ - Mechanical Systems 101 https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-mechanical-systems-101/ - AIA Contracts 101 https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-aia-contracts-101/ - Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ - Explore our CDT 101 course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/cdt-101/ As Emily mentions, understanding technical concepts like cast in place concrete becomes much clearer when you can discuss them with other candidates and get expert guidance. 👍 Like this episode? Subscribe for weekly architecture and ARE exam prep!
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    30 mins
  • 051.5 - Free Webinar: Career Advancement Hiding in Your ARE Studies

    051.5 - Free Webinar: Career Advancement Hiding in Your ARE Studies
    Jan 19 2026

    The CDT certification overlaps 80% with your ARE pro practice studies. Here's how to earn real credentials while preparing for your architect exam.

    If you're studying for the ARE, you're already doing most of the work needed to earn the CDT certification.

    Join Michael and Emily for a free webinar where they'll break down exactly how CSI certifications fit into your architecture license path, share CDT study strategies, and answer your questions live.

    Chapters:

    0:00 - Introduction
    2:28 - Quick Callback to Episode 26
    3:59 - The Bigger Picture: CSI Certification Ecosystem
    10:05 - Why This Matters for ARE Candidates
    11:08 - The CDT Schedule Reality
    12:49 - What We're Covering in the Webinar
    16:12 - Call to Action

    Episode Resources:

    • Register for the FREE CDT Webinar: https://youngarchitect.com/cdt-panel-discussion/

    • Read the full blog post: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/free-webinar-csi-certifications/

    • Get CDT 101 Course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/cdt-101/
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    17 mins
  • 051 - What is an RFI in Construction? Everything You Need to Know

    051 - What is an RFI in Construction? Everything You Need to Know
    Jan 12 2026
    What is an RFI? A Request for Information is the official way to get answers during construction. Here's everything you need to know about them. On a large project, you might see 500 to 1,000 RFIs before construction wraps up. That's 500 to 1,000 opportunities for miscommunication, delays, and finger-pointing if they're not handled properly. In this episode, we break down the RFI meaning in construction, when to use them, when NOT to use them, and the critical differences between RFIs and other construction documents. You'll learn why an RFI is the "nuclear option" for getting answers, not your first step. We cover the difference between RFIs vs change orders, RFIs vs submittals, and RFIs vs ASIs. Plus, we talk about what makes a good RFI versus what I call a "Zombie RFI" that creates more problems than it solves. This is essential knowledge for the Construction and Evaluation (CE) division of the ARE, but these concepts show up across multiple exams. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 1:46 - What is an RFI? 3:23 - When DO You Use an RFI? 5:32 - When DON'T You Use an RFI? 7:40 - RFI vs Other Documents 11:23 - What Makes a Good RFI? 14:59 - Timing and the Architect's Responsibilities 17:03 - How This Shows Up on the ARE 18:56 - Conclusion Episode Resources: Read the full blog post: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/what-is-an-rfi-construction/ Download free RFI study notes: https://youngarchitect.com/RFI Ready to pass the ARE and become a licensed architect? Get access to all our ARE Study Materials with the ARE 101 Membership: https://youngarchitect.com/ARE101 Individual ARE Exam Courses: - Practice Management (PcM 101): https://youngarchitect.com/PcM101 - Project Management (PjM 101): https://youngarchitect.com/PjM101 - Construction & Evaluation (CE 101): https://youngarchitect.com/CE101 - Programming & Analysis (PA 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/programming-analysis-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/ - Project Planning & Design (PPD 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-planning-and-design/ - Project Development & Documentation (PDD 101): https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-project-development-and-documentation/ - Building Codes 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-building-codes-101/ - Mechanical Systems 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-mechanical-systems-101/ - AIA Contracts 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/are-aia-contracts-101/ - Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/ - Explore our CDT 101 course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/cdt-101/ Subscribe for weekly ARE exam prep content and join thousands of successful architects who've passed their exams with Young Architect!
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    21 mins
  • 050 - AIA C401: Protecting Your Practice from Consultant Chaos

    050 - AIA C401: Protecting Your Practice from Consultant Chaos
    Jan 5 2026

    The AIA C401 Standard Form of Agreement Between Architect and Consultant is one of the most critical contract documents you need to master for ARE exam success and professional practice.

    In this comprehensive episode, Emily breaks down everything you need to know about consultant agreements, from relationship structures to liability protection.

    Learn how the C401 connects with your B101 Owner-Architect agreement and A201 General Conditions to create a complete chain of professional responsibilities.

    Whether you're studying for PcM, PjM, or CE exams, understanding consultant coordination will protect your practice and help you deliver better projects.

    Read the full blogpost for this podcast: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/aia-c401/

    🎯 Get Your Free C401 Study Guide: Want to master the AIA C401 for your ARE exams? Download our comprehensive 2-page study guide that breaks down all the key provisions and exam concepts: https://youngarchitect.com/c401

    🔗 Resources Mentioned:

    • AIA Contracts 101 Course: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/aia-contracts-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/

    • ARE Bootcamp 10-Week Program: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/

    • PcM 101 Practice Management: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/practice-management-101-are-5-0-exam-prep-pcm-101/

    • PjM 101 Project Management: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/project-management-101-are-5-0-exam-prep/

    👍 Found this helpful? Like this podcast and subscribe for more ARE exam prep content!

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    23 mins