Conspectus, Inc.

Conspectus Opens Office in Big Apple

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 04:45:45 -0500

New York, New York - February 13, 2012

Look out New York! Clifford Marvin is back in town. Alaska could not keep him away from the city and profession he loves. Cliff arrived Monday, February 13 and began managing the newest Conspectus office at 25th and Broadway. By Wednesday meetings were scheduled and held with potential clients in the city.

If you want to learn about Conspectus's capabilities and explore potential collaboration opportunities, call or email Cliff at 646.837.7200 or cmarvin@conspectusinc.com.

When asked about his plans for the office, David Stutzman, Conspectus principal, said: "The time is right. We are already working with NYC firms and getting more inquiries. And there is a positive mood from architects about future workload. We are thrilled to have Cliff join us as a respected, experienced specifier."

All Conspectus offices depend on the entire staff to ensure every project schedule is met. The NYC office will be supported by the New Jersey and Kentucky offices.

Conspectus TechTips - Naturally Decay Resistant Wood

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 04:44:37 -0500

Wood's natural decay resistance is dependent on species selection and the part of the tree that is used. Tropical rainforest species are not required for durable wood in exterior applications. Learn what US native species are sustainable alternatives and how to specify exterior wood for maximum decay resistance.

Download: Visit http://www.conspectusinc.com/tech-tips.htm to view or download the latest B2080 Decay Resistant Wood 12.02.01 and all previous Tech Tips.

Conspectus TechTips - Pet Resistant Resilient Flooring

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:01:36 -0500

What properties of decorative sheet vinyl flooring are important to consider when selecting pet resistant resilient flooring? Resisting surface abrasion and scratching, especially from large dogs, is a tall order for any flooring material, not just resilient flooring. Learn how to use the product standard to understand sheet vinyl flooring materials.

Download: Visit http://www.conspectusinc.com/tech-tips.htm to view or download the latest C2030 Pet Resistant Resilient Flooring 12.01.01 and all previous Tech Tips.

Arc-US 2011

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:52:03 -0500

Boca Raton, FL - November 17, 2011

David Stutzman attended the invitation only seventh annual meetings forum in Boca Raton, Fl hosted by BOND Events Corporation.

The conference introduces the principals of Design and Specification from the top US firms to manufacturers in a series of one-on-one meetings. During the two day event, the 104 architects had as many as 24 meetings. The manufacturers shared news about new products, products in development, and some tried and true products. Architects provided feedback on the new products and new features. Both learned from the exchanges.

Indianapolis CSI Chapter Monthly Meeting

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 19:49:17 -0500

Indianapolis, IN - September 22, 2011

On September 22, 2011, Randal Reifsnider of our Louisville office served as the moderator for a panel discussion arranged by the Indianapolis CSI Chapter for their regular monthly meeting.

The program, titled "Bid Day Happenings," was part of a series of panel discussions the Indy Chapter conducted addressing the "real life" issues of design and construction.

Conspectus TechTips - Choosing Mortar Types

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:05:12 -0500

The strength of mortar relative to the materials being installed is critical. Mortar must be strong enough and flexible enough to allow the structure to function as designed. Learn what mortar types are available and what cements may be used in mortar mixes. Each has a particular purpose. Also learn about the two completely different methods of specifying mortar.

Download: Visit http://www.conspectusinc.com/tech-tips.htm to view or download the latest A2010 Choosing Mortar Types 11.121.01 and all previous Tech Tips.

Conspectus Sitemares New Photos

Mon, 7 Nov 2011 07:30:46 -0400

More new photos. Check the top of the list for the rotted beam, pavement markings, and the architects dream solution to roof leaks - rain barrels.... http://www.conspectusinc.com/sitemares-archive.htm

Conspectus Sitemares New Photos

Mon, 7 Nov 2011 07:06:37 -0400

Difficult clearances? No problem just special order or field modify to get a custom toilet compartment. Who cares if you give up privacy as long as you can get into the stall.... http://www.conspectusinc.com/sitemares.htm

Conspectus Sitemares New Photos

Thu, 3 Nov 2011 09:29:20 -0400

How can you ensure that toilet rooms are accessible? Check this inventive method... http://www.conspectusinc.com/sitemares.htm

Conspectus TechTips - Cement Plaster Water-Resistive Barrier

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 21:24:47 -0400

The code includes two very different requirements for exterior wall water-resistive barriers (WRB). When using cement plaster exterior finishes, ensure the WRB is equivalent to two layers of Grade D paper, and not Type I (No. 15) asphalt felt. There is a big difference between the two. Find out what it is.

Download: Visit http://www.conspectusinc.com/tech-tips.htm and view or download B2010 Cement Plaster Water-Resistive Barrier 11.10.01 and all previous Tech Tips.

But That's Not What I Meant! Presented at AIA 3D Tristate Conference

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:18:58 -0400

Atlantic City, NJ - September 21, 2011

David Stutzman addressed the first ever Tristate Conference for AIA members from New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. His topic challenged the architects to use specifications to clearly state design intent to for the Contractor's Estimator, the Contractor's Superintendent, and the Architect's CA staff.

Abandon materials lists in specifications Section Includes articles.
Instead, state What, How, and Where to specify the work results.
Paint a mental picture of what is required.

For more information or to schedule this presentation for your office or your group, contact David at 609.628.2390 or dstutzman@conspectusinc.com. The program slides and handouts are available at www.conspectusinc.com/AIAtristate.

CSI Honors Conspectus's Tech Tips

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:17:36 -0400

Chicago, IL - September 16, 2011

The CSI national convention culminated with the annual awards ceremony where Randal Reifsnider and David Stutzman were presented the Communications Award. Making the presentation were Institute Past President, Dennis Hall, and Awards Committee Chair, Jonnie Cox.

Desktop Digital Toolbox Presented at CONSTRUCT2011

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:10:07 -0400

Chicago, IL - September 13 - 16, 2011

David Stutzman and Randal Reifsnider presented the world of software beyond Microsoft and tips and tricks, to help everyone who must use a computer to be more efficient. These are gems that we discovered through the course of doing business and our continuous search for anything that helps make life a bit easier.

Charles Henricks, AIA, CSI, CDT, LEED AP from Harrisonburg, VA tweeted, "Attending #construct session with @dstutzman to learn all the secrets of the world" followed by "thx for the excellent seminar lots of good tips!"

Justin R. Cole, Assoc. AIA, ASLA, CSI, CDT, LEED-AP BD+C from Athens, GA tweeted "My Favorite speakers from #CONSTRUCT #FF @CSIConstruction @thegainesgroup @dstutzman @rreifsnider."

For more information or to schedule this presentation for your office or your group, contact Randal at 502.228.9370 or rreifsnider@conspectusinc.com. The program slides and handouts are available at www.conspectusinc.com/construct2011.

Storefronts, Windows, Window Walls, and Curtain Wall - What's the Difference? Presented at CONSTRUCT2011

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:07:11 -0400

Chicago, IL - September 13 - 16, 2011

David Stutzman presented Storefronts, Windows, Window Walls, and Curtain Wall - What's the Difference? to a packed house at the CSI national convention. The session highlighted the principal differences among the systems: structure, glazing, attachment, size limitations, and water management.

Amy Randy, CSI, CDT from Minneapolis, MN commented: "I enjoyed your presentation and think it clarifies the differences between systems very well. I am sharing this with our technical committee to see if there are other issues not addressed. Thanks!"

For more information or to schedule this presentation for your office or your group, contact David at 609.628.2390 or dstutzman@conspectusinc.com. The program slides and handouts are available at www.conspectusinc.com/construct2011.

Conspectus Attends CONSTRUCT2011 and CSI National Convention

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:06:30 -0400

Chicago, IL - September 13 - 16, 2011

Randal Reifsnider, Conspectus Louisville Office Manager, and David Stutzman, Conspectus President attended the CSI national convention in Chicago. Randal and David presented two educational sessions at the convention and attended many more.

David attended two, exclusive invitation only, meetings to offer opinions on two new CSI initiatives. Institute President Paul Bertram held a meeting about CSI leading the industry in coordinating BIM and specifications. And Institute Executive Director, Walt Marlowe, met to discuss the CSI Master Specifier Retreat.

Conspectus Attends SCIP National Convention

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:05:07 -0400

Chicago, IL - September 13, 2011

Specification Consultants in Independent Practice (SCIP) held its national convention on Tuesday, September 13, 2011, concurrent with CONSTRUCT2011. David Stutzman, Conspectus President and SCIP Vice President; and Randal Reifsnider, Conspectus Louisville Office Manager and SCIP member, attended this meeting in Chicago.

The day-long secession addressed issues of concern for the independent specifier (the future of specifications and specifiers, legal and technical issues, and the job market in general) as well as general business.

Conspectus TechTips - Specs are Important

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 05:08:40 -0400

Specifications are important regardless the size, scope, complexity, and dollar value of the construction project. Learn what forms specs can take and how they may be used. Carefully select the form to suit the project. Remember specifications are one of the four documents AIA requires to form a complete construction contract.

Download: Visit http://www.conspectusinc.com and click Tech Tips to view or download Z Specs are Important 11.09.01 and all previous Tech Tips.

CSI Indianapolis Chapter - Monthly Meeting

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 19:09:15 -0400

Thursday, September 22, 2011 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM EDT

Randy Reifsnider of our Louisville office will be moderating a panel discussion for the CSI Indianapolis Chapter at their regular monthly meeting. The topic, Bid Day Happenings, will stir an exciting and engaging discussion on what happens just after bids are received. Sometimes known as the "bid day black hole," our panel will explore what really goes on behind the scenes after the blood, sweat, and tears of specifications, drawings, estimating, and bidding have happened. The meeting will be held at the Riverwalk Banquet Center 6729 E Westfield Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46220-1172.

To register to attend go to:
http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=6tpetldab&oeidk=a07e4nex4lkd7341f01

Social Media for Construction Professionals, Joy Davis

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 19:05:55 -0400

Wednesday, September 21, 20117:30 PM - 9:00 PM EDT

Randy Reifsnider of our Louisville office will be participating in the presentation given by Joy Davis, CSI, CCPR (CSI's Communications and Web Community Manager) to the CSI Allentown Chapter titled "Social Media for Construction Professionals."

You too can join the webinar by registering at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/

New SecretWord Challenge Starts Today

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 19:27:54 -0400

New Game Starts Today: Play the rebus game! http://www.conspectusinc.com/secret-word.htm. Find the secret word and win your own Conspectus mug.

Join the 25 winners from last month. Check All Game Winners to see who got MUGged.

Where Do Gages Come From

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:10:59 -0400

For years the concept of metal gages confused me:

Why was it that the thicker the metal the smaller the gage number - seems counter intuitive?

Why was it that the same gage was a different thickness for different metals (i.e. why was 12 gage steel sheet thicker than 12 gage sheet aluminum)?

Why was it that the same gage was a different dimension for sheet and wire made of the same metal?

A few years ago I decided to look it up, and it turns out it has to do with how metal sheets and wire are produced.
http://www.conspectusinc.com/blog/

Conspectus TechTips - Metal Framing Thickness or Gage

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 07:07:43 -0400

The metal framing industry stopped using imprecise gage thicknesses and started using precise minimum base metal thicknesses. Yet, many A/Es continue to specify metal framing by gage. Why adopt the newer standard? How did Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Gypsum Association (GA) fire resistant designs incorporate the change?

Download: Visit http://www.conspectusinc.com and click Tech Tips to view or download B2010 Metal Framing Thickness 11.08.01 and all previous Tech Tips.