If you hire an architect, we can work through the site feasibility analysis we are able to look at all the options available based on zoning for a potential building site. From the available zoning options a footprint can be determined along with a preliminary grading plan. This leads to adjustments to parking requirements which impacts the square footage of the building allowed on the site.
We then take all this information and create a grading plan to confirm our findings. This leads to the development of an aesthetic that works for the program and site. All of this site feasibility analysis is done without moving any dirt which allows for maximum flexibility for the property owner. The renderings can be used to market the project before and during construction. When you hire an architect, there is nothing like seeing the solution prior to completion of construction to tell a story.
I gave a tour of green buildings in Charlottesville a while ago to French students. They were amazed that our buildings were constructed of all wood instead of using stone and concrete. How are the buildings durable and energy-efficient they asked?
In order to keep the up front costs low for buildings we use advanced framing in wood frame construction. Ladder framed intersections allow for more insulation in the walls. Three stud corners allow for insulation in the corners. Insulated headers increase the insulation value of the wall assembly.
Doing all of these things can reduce the cost of wood for framing by 10% saving the client money. It can also increase the effective R-value of the overall wall assembly by up to 30%.
While there are ways to create a better wall system that is more energy-efficient than wood framed, for the lowest up front cost using advanced framing provides the best return. The question remains why do we still use wood-framed construction as our default in residential construction instead of looking at a longer term return on investment? I don’t have an answer, but as long as we use wood frame, advanced framing should be the default to maximize energy-efficiency.
Take the Construction Documents Technology (CDT) exam to better serve your clients.
I have written about the importance of the Construction Documents Technology exam many times in the past. I cannot stress enough the importance of knowing how a project should happen if the project goes perfect. I say this because I have never had a perfect project, something always happens, but knowing how to get it back to where it should be is critical for success (happy clients). The Construction Documents Technology (CDT) exam study process teaches you how the construction process should happen and helps you avoid problems.
When asked why she wanted to sit for the Construction Documents Technology (CDT) exam, Meg Carpenter in our Charlottesville office said “I want to become a Construction Document Technologist (CDT) because it will not only strengthen my knowledge and abilities as a career professional in my own field, but it will also help strengthen my relationship amongst all other parties involved in the project delivery process. I will be a more efficient architect for my clients and a clearer communicative partner for contractors and engineers, which will result in smoother project delivery and better professional relationships. I believe that becoming a CDT certificate holder will not only benefit me personally, but positively impact my field, related parties and all future facilities. “
In the construction industry it is easy to put your head down and try to avoid problems by showing up on time, doing what is expected, and performing to the best of your ability. The problem is, as I have heard it so many times – “CONSTRUCTION HAPPENS!” What do you do when just doing what you ‘thought’ was expected is not what was actually expected? What do you do when your interpretation of the documents is not the owner’s interpretation? How do you show potential clients that you understand how the process works and that you are a leader in the industry that deserves the opportunity? One good way is earning a CDT Certificate through the Construction Specifications Institute.
I am a “Construction Document Technologist.” This is the first step in the CSI certification ladder. In the competitive economy that we face, I find that you have to prove yourself time and again that you understand the construction process. CSI’s professional qualifications do just that for you. CDT is the “foundation you need to gain the competitive advantage” you need in today’s economy.
I encourage you to take the step and register for the CDT exam today. I can tell you it has benefited my career growth, allowed me to solve problems before they became big problems, and has saved my clients money repeatedly.
You don’t need to worry, your roof is going to be fine – probably…
With the recent snow fall there have been a couple of roofs that have collapsed. This has led to a LOT of questions about how much snow a roof can hold in our area. With some snow drifts getting 4′-5′ tall – how much snow is too much? You don’t need to worry, your roof is going to be fine – probably…
The first thing to consider is that a roof in the valley is designed to hold 43 pounds of snow per square foot when built to current building code. On the other side of the mountain, a roof is designed to hold 30 pounds per square foot of snow. So how does this measure up to reality? This snow was rather light or dry – which weighs around .5 pounds per inch per square foot. So a roof designed to current building codes will support around 7′ of snow in the valley. If the snow had been a heavier “wet” snow it could weigh as much as 1 pound per square foot. So this denser snow could become a problem at 3′-6″. It does not mean you will have a collapse, but you might have a problem if snow reaches these depths.
Some things that can impact these numbers include damage to trusses from faulty installation or rot from water intrusion over time. Wind added to the heavy loads can also impact how the roof will react during the storm. Pushing a heavy load in the same direction changes how the building performs.
When asked about snow loads on roofs in our area James Halstead, our in-house structural expert, said “In light of the recent snow storm and the collapse of several roofs around the area, homeowner’s, for the most part, should not be concerned about the stability of their structure. Although, if they have a flat roof, and a means of safe entry, it would be beneficial to remove as much snow as possible. The same idea would apply to an exterior deck. If by chance, homeowner’s start to view drywall cracks in the exterior walls or ceilings, or notice moisture spots that were not visible before the storm, consult with a local Architect, Builder or Structural Engineer for an evaluation.”
So why have we seen roofs collapse during this storm? It could be that the building was not maintained properly over time and water intrusion has caused damage to the structural system. It could be that the drifts exceeded the design code at the time the structure was built. It could be that the building was an agricultural use and does not have a code minimum standard.
So before the next storm, it may be beneficial to have a home inspector look at your roof system to verify no damage has been done by this storm. If you see any new cracks or water leaks it should certainly be checked.
It is always interesting working in older buildings
It is always interesting working in older buildings. Older buildings always have unique discoveries and untold stories that create the solutions that exist today. From handrails to mailboxes from days of old, these buildings have more character than we find in most new construction. They also have hidden surprises that can delay construction or add to the cost of construction.
An acoustic ceiling and open rail stair tells stories of transformation over time. The old was actually preserved behind a new covering protecting it from damage.
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The signs in this building tells more about what happened than any of the architectural details. There must have been many exciting events over the years in these hallways. Fortunately the building survived all the parties, late nights, loud neighbors, and even a fire to come back to life again.
The damage was severe and we found even more surprises during construction. It was a true challenge to save this downtown gem and bring it back to life. The new apartments are full of light and life. This kind of downtown transformation is changing our city one brick at a time for the better.
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