The primary requirement written into architectural practice acts for most U.S. states is that architects are licensed only for the purpose of protecting the public health, safety, and welfare (HSW). In Illinois where I am a licensed architect, these..
Interpreting "Health, Safety, and Welfare"
by Elias Saltz | Jan 15, 2019 | code, Code Requirements, Fiduciary Duty, licensing, Professional Practice, Architect
Preventing Construction Failures
by Elias Saltz | Apr 12, 2018 | Bad Specs, Code Requirements, Construction, Design Considerations, failures, Product Failures, Specifications
Looking at the recent history of construction, we find that it is littered with a spectrum of failures, from minor cosmetic types up to and including those that are truly catastrophic. The former may include mere annoyances - cracked finishes and the..
Evaluating Information Sources
by Elias Saltz | Mar 8, 2018 | Code Requirements, contract documents, CSI, Drawings, information sources, Professional Practice, publications, Specifications
Architects and specifiers alike face significant and continuous challenges when it comes to identifying and validating reliable information about construction products. Using an incorrect product for an application can lead to significant failure, and..
Fenestration Condensation
by David Stutzman | Jan 21, 2014 | B2020, Code Requirements, Design Considerations, Division 08, exterior windows, Product Applications, Product Failures, publications, Specifications, Tech Tips
It's Not Your Father's Greenboard
by David Stutzman | Aug 27, 2013 | C1010, code, Code Requirements, Construction Administration, Design Considerations, Division 09, Gypsum Board, product selection, publications, Specifications, Tech Tips
100% Construction Documents
by David Stutzman | May 13, 2013 | bidding, Code Requirements, Construcion Documents, Construction Administration, contract administration, Drawings, permitting, Professional Practice, Specifications
How many times have you labeled construction document issues by percent completion? It's a fairly common occurrence. The documents are ready to be issued at the end of Design Development, so they are labeled 100% Design Development. Then during the..
Portable Fire Extinguisher Selection
by David Stutzman | Jun 19, 2012 | Code Requirements, D4030, Design Considerations, Division 10, Fire extinguisher, Product Applications, publications, Specifications, Tech Tips
So many choices! What types and how many fire extinguishers do I really need? I don't have a copy of NFPA 10 that the code references. Isn't there a rule of thumb I can use? Learn how to select the correct fire extinguisher rating and extinguishing media..
Solve a Problem - Relieve Stress - Build Relationships
by David Stutzman | Dec 24, 2011 | code, Code Requirements, Design Considerations, Division 09, FF&E, fire rating, Product Applications, Professional Practice, Specifications
Last business day before Christmas, I received two email messages about a project that will be issued for construction the first week of January. The architect's office always closes for Christmas week. So I called to find out if replies were needed,..
Cement Plaster Water-Ressistive Barrier
by David Stutzman | Oct 18, 2011 | B2010, cement plaster, Code Requirements, Division 07, Division 09, Product Applications, publications, Specifications, Tech Tips, water-resistive barrier
Tech Tips received a CSI National Communications Award September 23, 2011 at the national convention.
Fire Rated Door Annual Inspection
by David Stutzman | Aug 29, 2011 | code, Code Requirements, Construction Administration, Division 08, Door, fire rating, Product Failures, Specifications
I opened the door to enter the office building lobby. The sound was loud and unmistakable - an electrical transformer humming away, loudly. Following the sound I found the room about 20 feet away with the door propped open to help ventilate the..