1 min read
Uniform Stair Risers
The International Building Code (IBC) Section 1009.4.4 requires stair risers and tread widths to be uniform height and width within a tolerance of...
Design Considerations (7)
A Guide to Fire Resistant Assemblies
Select fire resistant assemblies efficiently. Understand the basics of each design source, selection options and available tools to effectively...
1 min read
Tubular Beam Fireproofing
Two current projects face the same dilemma. The architects chose to use an HSS tubular steel section as a beam to support a stair landing. The...
2 min read
Brick Movement Joints
Certainly, you have seen examples of natural expansion joints. Science rules. Materials move. Buildings react; sometimes not as expected.
Cast-In-Place Concrete Repairs
Cast-In-Place Concrete Assemblies damaged by chloride ion penetration can be effectively repaired with a careful choice of repair materials. Repair...
1 min read
Code Review Requires Tolerance Consideration
During a state code review, the following comment was issued advising the agency (Owner) of a potential difficulty if the architect designed to the...
Wood Preservative Treatment
Drawing Note Says: Treated wood sill plate. What type - Preservative? Fire Retardant? Both are wood treatments. Know the building code to understand...
1 min read
Indoor/Outdoor Wood Strip Flooring
What were they thinking? That is all I could imagine asking. While walking in Philadelphia, I found an application for wood strip flooring that was...
1 min read
HVAC Systems Affecting Perception
While attending the Philadelphia AIA Design on the Delaware conference, I stood in the meeting room pre-function space, a balcony overlooking the...