May 30, 2005

Finding a Better Measure of Fenestration Performance:  An Analysis of the AAMA Condensation Resistance Factor

By: Sean OBrien

Abstract: As architectural products become more advanced, making comparisons between them becomes more difficult for designers. This is especially true in the case of fenestration products (e.g., windows, skylights, and curtain walls). The...

Services:Building Enclosure Design
Keywords:Curtain Wall, Moisture Control, Thermal, Walls, Windows
April 29, 2005

Importance of Wood Education in Structural Engineering Practice: Case Studies

By: Milan Vatovec, Paul Kelley, Jeffrey Langlois, Philip Westover, Leonard Morse-Fortier

Abstract: This paper presents case studies to illustrate the importance of wood-engineering education in actual engineering projects and applications. The case studies are based on real projects from our engineering practice and include...

Services:Materials Investigation, Materials Rehabilitation, Structural Rehabilitation
Keywords:Field Testing, Laboratory Testing and Analysis, Wood
April 29, 2005

Predictive Service Life Tests for Roofing Membranes

By: Cash, Carl G., Arthur Davies, David Niles, Bailey D.M., Delgado A.H., Paroli R.M.

Abstract: Twelve roofing membranes, including poly [vinyl chloride], asphalt glass-felt built-up, thermoplastic polyolefin, atactic polypropylene polymer modified asphalt, styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer modified asphalt, and ethylene-...

Services:Building Enclosure Investigation, Materials Investigation
Keywords:Asphalt, Laboratory Testing and Analysis, Research/Development, Roofing
April 29, 2005

Professor Robert H. Scanlan and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge

By: Leonard Morse-Fortier

Abstract: Among other pursuits, the late Dr. Robert H. Scanlan worked for nearly 40 years to understand the problem of bridge-deck flutter. This paper presents an overview of his work, with particular attention to the original investigative work...

Services:Structural Investigation
Markets:Bridge
Keywords:Bridge, Major Vehicular
April 29, 2005

Wall Cladding System Durability Lessons Learned from the Premature Deterioration of Wood-Framed Construction Clad with Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) in the U.S.

By: Matthew Bronski

Abstract: Despite well-intended laboratory testing of individual materials and components, unanticipated and severe durability failures of building wall systems can occur when the system design does not adequately integrate the various materials...

Services:Building Enclosure Investigation, Materials Investigation
Keywords:Cladding / Recladding, EIFS, Failure Investigation, Moisture Control, Walls, Wood Frame
April 29, 2005

A New Standard for Blast Protection of Buildings

By: Donald Dusenberry

Abstract: The Structural Engineering Institute of the American Society of Engineers has formed a Standards Committee to develop a new standard for blast resistant design of buildings. This paper discusses the proposed content of this new document...

Services:Structural Design
Keywords:Blast Analysis & Resistance, Codes & Standards, Extreme Environments/Structures
April 29, 2005

Suggestions to Engineers for the Review of Contracts and Preparation for and Presentation of Testimony

By: Cash, Carl G.

Abstract: A consultant and building pathologist discusses a roof consultant's preparation for legal actions such as depositions, appearances at arbitrations and in court, obligations as a witness and dealing with lawyers.

Services:Building Enclosure Investigation
Keywords:Expert Testimony, Roofing
February 27, 2005

Building Design after September 11

By: Donald Dusenberry

Abstract: Anyone watching the heart-wrenching collapses of the World Trade Center towers or the smoke billowing from the debris pile of the destroyed portion of the Pentagon could easily question our approach to building design.  However, we...

Services:Structural Design, Structural Investigation
Keywords:Blast Analysis & Resistance, Codes & Standards
February 27, 2005

Avoiding the Perils of Paper-Faced Exterior Gypsum Sheathing

By: Eric Olson

Abstract: Buildings must be free of significant mold growth to protect the health of the occupants and the building. However, many in the design/construction industry continue to specify and use products that can deteriorate and sustain mold...

Services:Building Enclosure Design
Keywords:Building Science, Water Leakage
January 30, 2005

Green Salvage Solutions - Reusing Roofing and Structural Materials

By: Mark Webster, Matthew Bronski

This article discusses the application of life-cycle assessment to salvaged materials and reviews selected roofing and structural materials with good salvage potential. The feature also examines how the U.S. Green Building Council's (USGBC...

Services:Materials Rehabilitation
Keywords:Demolition, Green / Sustainable Design, LEED Projects, Material-Related

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