Previous Tech Tip was updated to the current industry standards with the help of metal framing manufacturers. The metal framing industry stopped using imprecise gage thicknesses and started using precise minimum base metal thicknesses. Yet, many A/Es..
Metal Framing Thickness or Gage - New and Improved issue
by David Stutzman | Aug 16, 2018 | Division 05, Division 09, metal, Product Applications, publications, Specifications, studs, Tech Tips
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..
RH Effects on Wood Flooring
by David Stutzman | Feb 25, 2015 | B2030, Design Considerations, Division 09, Product Applications, Product Failures, product selection, publications, Tech Tips, wood flooring
Wood flooring, like all wood products is affected by moisture. It swells. It shrinks. And it is expected to always look as perfect as the day it is installed. But what happens when the wood is not installed in perfect conditions? What range of conditions..
Door Security
by David Stutzman | Nov 28, 2014 | B2050, C1030, Design Considerations, Division 08, hardware, Locks, Product Applications, publications, security, Specifications, Tech Tips
When is an electric strike not an electric strike? When it is a euphemism for a secure door. Knowing what function is required is paramount. Function will dictate what devices are needed. So what should be considered when specifying a secure door?
Construction Warranties
by David Stutzman | Oct 22, 2014 | Design Considerations, Division 01, Extended Warranty, Limited Warranty, Operation & Maintenance, Product Failures, publications, Specifications, Tech Tips, Z1060, Z1070
Do construction warranties provide value for the owner? Manufacturers write warranties to limit their own risk. The warranty value will depend greatly on how the warranty is specified and the owner's knowledge of the warranty conditions.
Insulation, MCM, and NFPA 285
by David Stutzman | Aug 19, 2014 | B2010, Design Considerations, Division 07, exterior wall, Insulation, MCM, Product Applications, publications, NFPA 285, Specifications, Tech Tips
Exterior Walls: so many components, so many materials - will the result really meet the code? NFPA 285 may govern and may limit available choices, so know what triggers the need to comply before the final wall assembly is designed.
Gypsum Board Finish Levels
by David Stutzman | Jun 24, 2014 | C1010, C2060, Division 09, Gypsum Board, Product Applications, publications, Specifications, Tech Tips
Gypsum board is the most common wall and soffit finish in the US. One finish does not fit all applications. Specifying appropriate gypsum board finish levels helps control project costs while producing the desired aesthetic results. So what finish level..
Plywood Structural Panels
by David Stutzman | May 27, 2014 | B2010, Construction Administration, Division 06, plywood, Product Applications, publications, B1010, B1020, Sheathing, Specifications, Tech Tips
Why does the code require trademarks to distinguish the various plywood types? All plywood is not the same. Panels may be suitable for specific applications. The trademarks give basic information about expected performance and allowable use. Know and..
Exterior Deck Coatings
by David Stutzman | Mar 26, 2014 | B3040, Deck Coating, Division 07, Product Applications, publications, Specifications, Tech Tips, Traffic Coating, Waterproofing
Exterior deck coatings in residential construction are expected to perform as a waterproofing and traffic surface. The coating must prevent water intrusion to the occupied space below, and must withstand foot traffic and furniture used to enjoy the..
Laminated Glass
by David Stutzman | Feb 20, 2014 | B2020, C1010, C1020, Design Considerations, Division 08, Glass, Product Applications, product selection, publications, Specifications, Tech Tips
Laminated glass construction is simple - glue two or more panes of glass together to form a composite single pane. Wait, nothing is ever that simple. What can be used as the glue? What benefits and limitations do the glues have? What considerations might..