Whether you're a student, apprentice, new employee or simply looking to better understand engineered wood construction, APA offers trusted educational resources to help you build a strong foundation.
Start with introductory courses, explore engineered wood products, learn construction basics and discover trusted technical resources you'll use throughout your career.
APA offers introductory videos designed for people who are new to engineered wood products and wood-frame construction. Each one builds practical knowledge you can immediately apply in the classroom or on the job.
Ready to dive deeper? Learn about the engineered wood products used in today's residential and commercial construction. Discover how they're manufactured, where they're used and how they contribute to high-performing floor, wall, roof and mass timber systems.
Understanding individual products is just the beginning. Explore how engineered wood products work together in complete floor, wall, roof and mass timber systems, with practical guidance for residential, multifamily and commercial construction.
Builder Tips are short, practical guides that highlight proven installation techniques and best practices for working with engineered wood products. Whether you're learning the trade or building on your experience, these resources can help you improve workmanship, avoid common construction issues and build with confidence.
For more than 90 years, APA has been a trusted source of education and technical expertise for the engineered wood industry.
Gain a foundational understanding of the materials used in wood-frame construction, including engineered wood products, fasteners and adhesives. These introductory resources explain key concepts, product applications and installation practices that contribute to durable, high-performing buildings.
Learn how construction drawings, specifications and layout work together to communicate how buildings are designed and built. These resources introduce construction documents, CAD details and product specifications commonly used by design and construction professionals.
Learn the fundamentals of wood-frame floor construction, from framing and sheathing to subfloor preparation and moisture protection. These resources explain key components, installation best practices and common issues that affect floor system performance.
APA Engineered Wood Construction Guide Excerpt: Floor Construction
Build A Better Home: Moisture-Resistant Foundation Construction, Form A520
Builder Tips: Construct a Solid, Squeak-Free Floor System, Form Q300
Builder Tips: Proper Selection and Installation of APA Plywood Underlayment, Form R340
Technical Note: Floor Squeaks—Causes, Solutions and Prevention, Form C468
Learn the fundamentals of wood-frame wall construction, including wall sheathing, bracing and moisture management. These resources explain how engineered wood products contribute to strong, durable wall systems that meet structural and building performance requirements.
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Learn the fundamentals of roof framing and ceiling joist construction, including proper roof sheathing installation and moisture management. These resources explain how engineered wood products contribute to durable, high-performing roof systems.
Learn the framing techniques and construction practices that help improve quality, efficiency and long-term building performance. These resources highlight common framing mistakes, practical installation guidance and best practices for reducing callbacks.
Looking for more ways to expand your knowledge? These resources can help you continue learning as your experience grows.
Continue learning with live and on-demand educational opportunities covering engineered wood products, construction practices and industry topics.
The APA Technical Document Library contains hundreds of technical publications, design guides, videos, CAD details, research reports and educational resources covering engineered wood products and building systems.
Whether you're looking for introductory information or detailed technical guidance, it's the best place to continue building your knowledge.
Find answers to common questions about engineered wood products, construction applications, design resources and APA services.
Have a question? Get free expert guidance and support from APA's Engineered Wood Specialists. Our technical experts are available to answer questions about engineered wood products, construction practices, code requirements and product applications.
The APA Help Desk is available Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Pacific.
Technical Guides - E30
This publication provides a comprehensive overview of engineered wood construction systems for residential, commercial and industrial buildings
Technical Guides - X505
This publication provides a list of engineered wood products and common construction terminology explained in easy-to-understand language.
Technical Guides - D510
This publication describes recommended design capacities (ASD) and design methods for wood structural panels manufactured under PS 1 and PS 2 and APA Performance Standard PRP-108.
Engineered Wood Basics On-Demand