Growing up in a more eco-conscious world, incoming students are more savvy about "greening" the world around them. A decade ago, green college campuses were those that offered recycling bins in residence halls. Now education institutions are integrating sustainability efforts into as many aspects of their campus operations as possible. And that…

Many school and college campuses are like small cities--they offer a little bit of everything. Although academic buildings and residence halls account for a sizable percentage of the facilities on a campus, the academic community on a school campus can include other buildings with specialized design and performance needs: laboratories,…

In 2008, American School & University showcased some of the hottest products in the industry. This article presents the 10 most requested, as determined by readers. Products include fluorescent lighting, concrete floor maintenance and exterior sheathing.

Many schools are almost entirely reliant on alarms and sprinklers for their fire protection. As these devices need to be triggered and supplied with power or water to work properly, they are vulnerable to errors. To provide adequate safety, a good fire-protection program must have three primary elements: fire protection and suppression, and…

Discusses the benefits in terms of moisture and therefore mold resistance of using masonry products for a building's envelope. Also describes maintenance steps to help combat moisture problems. (EV)

Explains why the ceiling systems that schools choose are as important to creating a constructive learning environment as any other finishing material and furnishing. Some effective wall system strategies are also highlighted. (GR)

Discusses school roof inspection and upkeep and the steps needed to help extend a roof's life. Water removal systems, material selection, and roof design considerations are addressed. (GR)

Debunks the myths surrounding the use of modular facilities for solving school-budgeting problems. Myths concerning poor modular strength, slow construction speed versus site-built construction, poorer durability and quality, and lack of aesthetic diversity are discussed. Comparative construction characteristics are highlighted. (GR)

Explores how the myths of modular construction for schools began; also discusses the advances made in steel and modular construction. The major advantages of using permanent modular construction for schools are highlighted, including its rapid construction, use of standard building materials, financial flexibility, and durability. (GR)

Presents a resource guide for identifying, selecting, and specifying educational roofing systems. Explores the various types of roofing systems considered for most schools and describes how to select a roofing contractor and consultant. A roofing retrofit check list and roofing specification chart are provided. (GR)

How much does a school cost? It's a straightforward question, but the answer for many education administrators is a frustrating, "It depends." The cost of a school facility surely includes what an education institution pays for the building site, design plans, construction materials, workers who assemble the building, and furniture and equipment…

Public or private, K-12, college or university, no one knows their facilities better than school maintenance and operations staff--from the front-line custodians to facility managers. When it comes to planning restrooms for new construction and renovation, operational experience is especially critical. Applying best practices in advance can save…