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Ordering – Payments – Tokens – Delivery – Subscriptions & Memberships 26
How can I pay for something custom that’s not a store product or something quoted?
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How To Use Master Plans – TER’s – Calculator Reports Purchased From Engineering Express
READ BELOW BEFORE USING NON SITE-SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS
FROM ENGINEERING EXPRESS FOR YOUR PROJECT
General Information About Non Site-Specific Plans:
Certified Performance Evaluations (also referred to as Master Plans, Generic, or Non Site-Specific Plans) you receive contain a physical or digitally certified engineer seal. They are intended to be used to assist in obtaining a building permit and in constructing the component conveyed in the plan. In all cases using a non-site specific plan, additional documentation is required to serve as approval of use of the purchased document for the intended location. The design professional providing that approval then becomes the responsible party for their use at that location. This additional documentation is provided by others and not part of the purchase of master plans or technical evaluation reports (TER’s) from us.
At no time is construction to be performed without the review and approval by another party of the documents purchased regarding the applicability, limitations of use, and proper selection of plan detail options for the intended installation. In all cases, completed work shall be inspected and approved by others before approval for use including but not limited to the municipality having jurisdiction, architect and/or engineer of record, and permitting contractor which is not our responsibility or part of this purchase.
The documents you purchase from us unless otherwise stated are for sole approval of a pre-engineered, non-site-specific building component subject to the stated limitations of use only and are NOT intended to serve as approval for the construction of any design or installation.
ALSO, AT NO TIME IS ANY PHOTOCOPY OR UNSEALED DOCUMENT TO BE USED OF PLANS FOR PERMIT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. BUILDING CODES REQUIRE AN ORIGINAL, CERTIFIED DOCUMENT FOR EACH PERMIT TO BE VALID FOR USE.
Using Certified Master Plans, TER’s & Other Evaluation Reports
The Master Plans & Technical Evaluation Reports (TER) we provide are structural performance evaluations of the subject building component and do not contain a site-specific address. The certification of those documents approves the limitations of use as stated, NOT that the building component can be used at a specific location. That is the responsibility of others as described herein.
THIS ALSO INCLUDES THE USE OF PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS SUCH AS MIAMI DADE NOA’S, FLORIDA PRODUCT APPROVALS, TEXAS TDI EVALUATIONS, & ICC EVALUATION REPORTS.
The user of the original, certified documents (never photocopies) shall carefully review each detail for applicability to their site-specific condition and gain approval of use for their application by others. Engineering Express remains available for questions via email, online chat, or phone for questions or clarifications of the information within the purchased document and as contained herein which may result in additional engineering consultation fees. Site-specific review and approval and customized & site-specific design plan services are also available which can be performed by this office or another licensed professional.
Using Certified Design Calculator Reports With Addresses Generated By Engineering Express
Printouts from online calculators may come with a site-specific address. It is understood and agreed that the address, as well as all inputted information, is provided by the purchaser at the time of purchase. By agreeing to purchase the document, you understand and affirm that we have not been contracted to a site-specific study, field investigation, or review design plans by others to provide the result you purchased. The site-specific address you provide serves to bind the document to your permit as is required by code and does not constitute that a site-specific or field review has been performed by this firm to authorize their use. The documents also contain information explaining this, as well as the fact that the certified results are to be reviewed by a design professional along with other required construction documents to obtain a permit for construction and use.
The information provided in the purchased document shall at all times be reviewed and approved by others for applicability and accuracy of the intended use prior to permitting and construction. This office is solely providing a result based on the information you provide to us, that you have affirmed to us is accurate at the time of purchase, and that you have had an opportunity to consult with us prior to use if at all in doubt or have any questions about the use of the document we provided. Information regarding contacting us is provided below.
About Digitally Signed Documents
Digitally signed documents typically contain a disclaimer box limiting the use of the document to a specific contractor with a geographic zip code limitation and approved date range to apply for an electronic permit. Digitally signed documents also contain encryption to verify the authenticity of the document which shall be verified by electronic means by others before use.
Digitally signed documents must remain digital and become invalid for use once printed. Scanned copies of printed digitally sealed plans are no longer considered digital and are invalid for use.
The zip code provided in the disclaimer is provided solely to limit repeated use of the document and is not intended to serve as approval that the purchased document is valid for use within that zip code or any site-specific address contained within. Signed documents may also contain a building floor elevation to which the use is limited to which is requested and provided solely to limit misuse of the signed document. Certification at a specific address and building floor is the responsibility of others as described herein.
The date limitation is intended to limit the amount of time the permittee has to submit the document with the electronic application for permit. The document is valid for use within the limitations and building codes provided on the purchased document.
More information about digitally signed documents can be found by clicking here.
About Physical Printed ‘Hardcopies’
Documents that are physically printed (also known as hard copies) are signed and sealed with an embossed or ‘wet’ ink seal by the certifying design professional. For these documents to be valid for use, the ORIGINAL document must be presented to the approving municipality. PHOTOCOPIES OF PRINTED DOCUMENTS ARE NOT CONSIDERED SIGNED AND SEALED AND ARE NOT VALID FOR USE. This firm is not responsible for the use of any photocopied document of our signed and sealed work.
Additionally, markings or alterations to original signed and sealed documents invalidate our certification and require additional review prior to use.
Each signed and sealed document contains information on how to obtain an originally sealed version.
More information about physically signed documents can be found by clicking here.
About Generic Documents Purchased For Building Components Attached To Structures
Documents purchased for host-attached building components (such as overhangs, wall-mounted signs, and rooftop mechanical equipment) DO NOT certify the building component for use on any specific project. Each of these performance evaluations requires another design professional to review and approve the document for the intended site-specific application including the integrity of the host structure to withstand the additional forces placed by the building component at the time of the worst-case design condition (such as during a hurricane, snowstorm, earthquake, maximum occupancy load, etc). THE DOCUMENTS PURCHASED THROUGH THE ONLINE PLAN STORE OR DOWNLOADED FROM A STATE EVALUATION SITE (SUCH AS MIAMI DADE NOA’S OR FL PRODUCT APROVALS) DO NOT DO THIS. ADDITIONAL STEPS MUST BE TAKEN PRIOR TO PERMITTING AND CONSTRUCTION.
The purchased documents solely state the performance limitation of the building component to the loads and design wind/snow/seismic/forces listed within the evaluation. The actual code-minimum design forces for your site-specific project may be HIGHER than the limitations of the purchased document which shall be determined, reviewed, and approved by others and not part of our certification or your purchase.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and not purchased or included in the document you obtain from us.
Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
About Generic Documents Purchased For Freestanding Building Components
Documents purchased for freestanding building components (such as fences, freestanding pergolas, A/C and generator pads, and ground-mounted signs) contain limitations of their use and may contain equivalent design information (such as wind, snow, geotechnical, and seismic equivalent values). These documents DO NOT approve the use of the building component for YOUR APPLICATION. The documents we provide state that IF your application meets the listed limitations of use, the building component can withstand the imposed code-minimum design forces and limitations as stated on the respective plan.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and not purchased or included in the document you obtain from us. Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Other:
While any licensed professional can provide the site-specific information required for use with the purchased documents as described herein, this office welcomes the opportunity to quote these additional services for other businesses. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Certified documents are only valid for the state, building code, and limitations of use listed in the original, certified document. For use in states and building codes other than listed, contact the office for further evaluation which may require alterations to the performance limitations or review and certification by a licensed professional in the state requested.
Please note that while homeowners may purchase documents from our plan store, we do not perform any consultation services directly with homeowners. If you are a homeowner and purchased certified documents from our plan store, please have your contractor contact us, or work with a local licensed professional to complete your application for permit which shall include their approval for use of your purchased documents for your specific project.
We are not responsible for any installation deficiencies that occur from the misuse of any certified document purchased from us. Any deviations from the specifications in our plans, alterations, or markings to our certified documents or use without consulting a design professional is strictly prohibited and INVALIDATE OUR CERTIFICATION. Use of the purchased documents indemnifies & saves harmless the engineer & firm for all cost & damages including legal & appellate fees resulting from deviations of the certified plan as well as material fabrication, system erection, & construction practices beyond which is called for by local, state, & federal codes and standards of care.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and is not included in the document you obtain from us. Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Contact this office with any questions or to request a design consultation which is required prior to permitting and construction to ensure proper use of these documents and a safe, code-compliant design.
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How can you leave my order outside in one of your office pickup boxes?
Pickups have been discontinued from all of our Office Locations. Not to worry, we have free local shipping for minimum fee orders and are happy to work with any of our repeat clients on ways to avoid shipping fees for small orders.
Contact us or chat with us online to discuss your express delivery needs on any project or online order.
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I need help finding a tie down detail for permit
Tie-down details are incorporated into Technical Evaluation Reports (TERs) which are cataloged by model number for manufacturers such as Trane, Carrier, Daikin, Samsung, Mitsubishi, and others.
You can search for tie down details by model number or TER number/name on our mechanical page.
You can also visit EngineeringExpress.com/store to search for the product you need (Begin by the brand needed then select the type of unit).
NOTE: Engineering Express only provides tie-down details for models we are contracted for by the product manufacturers. If you don’t see what you need, you will need to contact the product distributor to locate the tie down detail by their respective engineer.
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How do I know if a payment went through for my online order?
You will get an email to confirm we have received your request once the payment has been approved
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How can clients in the South Florida area save money on shipping fees?
If you are a frequent buyer in the South Florida area, consider merging your orders into a single purchase over $100.00 (Digital and/or hard copies) to qualify for free local shipping (Miami Dade, Broward & Palm Beach counties, Florida)
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is the 6th Edition Florida Building Code still valid? That’s what it says on my plan.
If the controlling permit for your project is dated prior to Jan 1, 2021, then the 6th Edition Florida Building Code is still valid. Otherwise, you will need to place an order for an updated version of the plan (please visit EngineeringExpress.com/store/ to start your search (We recommend beginning with the brand needed if known or project number you have on your outdated plan).
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I need to create an NOA / product approval for my product. What’s the process?
Start by reading our articles about product approvals by Clicking Here. You’ll learn when they’re really needed, what information we need, how they help, and much more.
> In short, products ‘inside the rule‘ require product approval in Florida.
> This is done by a combination of testing & rational analysis as determined by code.
> Most products such as windows, doors, and roofing require extensive testing. From there, the tests can be uploaded to the State of Florida or Evaluated by an engineer. Product Evaluations allow variations such as alternate sizes, substrates, and anchoring.
> Prior to testing, a qualified firm should be retained to establish a test protocol to maximize the use of the test results. That firm needs to be independent of the lab conducting the testing.
> With testing complete, the evaluating engineer would consult with you on the best format to display the evaluation.
> For Florida Product Approvals, prior to submitting to the state, a Validator and Quality Assurance entity needs to be retained to provide the 3rd party assurance that the evaluation is performed per code and the product meets the tested parameters over time.
> After the Florida Approval is granted, the document registration number can be used for permit in Florida if the installation matches the intent of the evaluation report. Typically a local design professional (architect or engineer) is retained to establish the design criteria of the local installation and ‘approve’ the approval for use at that location/opening. Modifications may be permitted if performed within the guidelines of the building code, referenced standards, and the limitations of the evaluation.
You can search Florida & Miami Dade Product Approvals for similar examples of your product for consideration by clicking here.
When you’re ready for Engineering Express to help & have the information gathered in the articles, visit EngineeringExpress.com/ExpressPass to apply for access & request a quote for your product evaluation. We will contact you shortly thereafter to discuss your needs & detail & how our national certifications can help.
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I have a different brand product than the one you specify but it’s similar. How can I get mine certified for permit?
This would require the project to be site specific.
Please visit EngineeringExpress.com/ExpressPass to apply for access to request a quote for a site-specific project.
Click ‘apply for access’, fill the form and in the description box, please give us an idea of the project you are looking for. After submitting a team leader will contact you back with the following steps.
(This process can’t be done by homeowners. We recommend finding a contractor to assist or another local engineer).
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I received a hardcopy (printed) plan and need a digitally signed-sealed file. What do I do?
You will need to place a new order in our online plan store for the same plan but select ‘digitally sealed file’ under the ‘plan format’ option & re-pay for the plan.
If you can return the physical plan we will provide Tokens as credits for additional orders. See our Refund policy for more.
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I’d like to use an EFT (electronic funds transfer) instead of a credit card. Can you help with that?
See our Pay Page or contact our office for more information.
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I placed an order for pickup that now needs to be shipped. What do I do?
Engineering Express discontinued pickup from all of our Office Locations. That option has been removed from our online store in case you are looking for it.
Not to worry, we have free local shipping for minimum fee orders and are happy to work with any of our repeat clients on ways to avoid shipping fees for small orders.
Contact us or chat with us online to discuss your express delivery needs on any project or online order.
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I made a mistake on the zip code of an online digital order. What do I do?
This can only be done if the order has not been processed. Please contact our office for further assistance or use our Live Chat feature.
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How can I cancel an online order?
This can only be done if the order has not been processed or shipped. Please contact our office for further assistance or use our Live Chat feature.
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I ordered a project through E-Tempest. What’s the process for receiving a digitally signed-sealed file?
Engineering Express provides engineering review & certification of orders placed through E-Tempest shutter software. If you ordered the digitally signed and sealed file from E-Tempest, it will be emailed to you as a PDF attachment. If you requested Hard copies but need a digitally signed – sealed file, please contact E-Tempest directly.
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Can I get a discount on volume plan store orders?
Engineering Express has developed an efficient system for volume discounts. Discounts are offered by purchasing Tokens in bulk. This allows volume orders to be spread out over time & products, and also avoids license fee charges.
Visit EngineeringExpress.com/Tokens for more information about our token system and bulk discounts.
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I’m looking for a model not shown on the chart in a Technical Evaluation Report (TER). What do I do?
Engineering Express would love to have every model unit of an A/C or generator pre-engineered. We can only engineer what we’re hired to do by the manufacturer so letting them know is always an option.
If you are a contractor & in need of our help right away, you would need to order a site-specific design so we can process 1 model for 1 address efficiently & inexpensively. Visit EngineeringExpress.com/ExpressPass, to apply for an account & request a quote for a site-specific project.
Click at apply for access, fill the form and in the description box, please give us an idea of the project you are looking for, after submitting a team leader will contact you back with the following steps.
(This process can’t be done by homeowners. We recommend hiring a contractor or calling the manufacturer. We simply cannot handle the volume of homeowner requests with the price point needed & volume of information we need to obtain).
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How can I clarify my account status with Engineering Express?
If you have reason to believe your account is not in good standing, or if a designer tells you they cannot process your work due to your account status, contact our office to help you further with your request by sending an email to [email protected] or using our general Contact Us form.
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How can I confirm you have my current address for shipping?
If you need to change the shipping address of an order already placed, you will need to send an email to [email protected] with your order number & new shipping address before your order gets completed or shipped.
For new orders, be sure to update your information on your Account Page.
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I have a question about project statuses and what DRAFT means
To understand draft & final sealed work, see this article.
Project statuses are mostly self-explanatory throughout ExpressPass & the online ordering system. If you have questions, send us a Live Chat.
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How do I check the project status of my project with Engineering Express?
Use our convenient Status Page to check your order.
If it’s an online order, you can also find the status & track your package on your Dashboard.
For ExpressPass users, log in to ExpressPass & look under ‘orders & quotes’.
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How can I get my digitally signed – sealed file resent to me?
Use the live chat during business hours or use our Contact Form for the most reliable service.
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This is my first time paying for an invoice. How can I pay?
For site-specific (custom) project orders, the fastest way to pay is EngineeringExpress.com/pay. You will need the project, invoice or quote number.
For online orders through our Plan Store, payment is collected at checkout via credit card or PayPal.
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How do I know if my order is ready for pickup?
Engineering Express discontinued pickup from all of our Office Locations.
Not to worry, we have free local shipping for minimum fee orders and are happy to work with any of our repeat clients on ways to avoid shipping fees for small orders.
Contact us or chat with us online to discuss your express delivery needs on any project or online order.
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Subscription Services Offered by Engineering Express
Membership Services Offered by Engineering Express
Subscribe to one of our exclusive industry packages to gain exclusive access to a host of on-demand engineering services including:
Private Calculators
Gain access to our advanced online calculators to help with Aluminum Member Design Package, Ground Mounted Sign Design & Estimating, Canopies & Carports, Decks, Railings, & more.
See our free online calculators as examples of our amazing tools
Or contact us to create a private calculator for you – Engineering design, estimating, takeoffs, budgeting & other useful functions.
Member Discounts on Tokens
Members of our subscription services receive a monthly stipend of tokens to use to purchase certified plans & calculators for purchase as well as premium discounts on token bundles for even more savings.
More About Tokens & Direct Purchasing
Enginering Support Channels
We curate all your engineering needs into one microsite. Link to your Engineering Support Channel from your website – We link back to you for a seamless customer experience.
Benefit from our Live Chat with a designer, private-labeled access to hundreds of helpful articles, & public & private use of calculators, browse & purchase of plans we create for you, and continuously maintained, custom links to product purchasing, dealers, technical data, CAD files, & any other resource you feel fit.
Support channels can link from our website to provide a focused engineering support solution that looks like your site & returns back to the manufacturer’s website.
View our existing channels
Let’s discuss your needs
How It Works
For qualifying companies in one of the industries we service, we set up a plan for you:
1. Engineering Support Only – Fee based on channel size use
2. Subscription Fee Offset – The more Master Plans, Design Aid Calculators or Custom Engineering we design for you & site specific work coming in, the larger discount we offer on Private Calculators & Engineering Support Channels
3. Engineering Tokens – Subscription fees are offset by providing you with Tokens that can also be shared with your customers. Tokens can be used to purchase Master Plans and Certified Calculators.
About Plan Store Tokens
About Engineering Express
Plan Store Tokens
Why Tokens?
Creating a tokens-based system solves a growing list of client pain points:
> Frequent purchasers can now pay once with your credit card instead of every single checkout – Saves time hassle & money:
Previously plan store customers had to buy bulk quantity of a single plan at the same time to get a bulk discount. Clients can now buy tokens in bulk at a discount & easily use them one plan at a time as needed.
> USE TOKENS & SAVE THE 8% LICENCING FEE CHARGED FOR PLANS
> Qualify for promotional credits as they are offered only when paying with tokens
> Tokens do not expire – Eligible refunds can be easily made using tokens
> Tokens are provided as part of our membership packages featuring valuable engineering services.
> Tokens can also be shared with others, allowing easy ways to help your customers, & co-workers order engineering plans & certified calculations.
Watch to learn about purchasing, using, & sharing Tokens
Purchase Token Bundles
10 Tokens
Convenience Pack
$
100
00
- 1-2 Permit Sets
- Save License Fees
Purchase 10
Best for infrequent client – Saves checkout hassle
15 Tokens
Tier 1 Discount
$
142
50
- SAVE 5%
- Save License Fees
Purchase 15
Best if you need occasional master plans for permit
25 Tokens
Tier 2 Discount
$
225
00
- SAVE 10%
- Save License Fees
Purchase 25
Frequent clients save time, hassle & money
50 Tokens
Power Pack
$
400
00
- SAVE 20%
- Save License Fees
Purchase 50
For our power clients – What you’ve been asking for!
Popular
100 Tokens
VIP Premium Discount
$
750
00
- SAVE 25%
- Save License Fees
Purchase 100
Created to support our VIP clients
Need a quick top-off to your existing tokens?
Purchase our 5 Token Top-off Pack
Contact Us to discuss larger volume & special relationship Token purchases
ADDED BENEFIT OF TOKENS:
USE TOKENS & SAVE THE LICENSING FEE CHARGED TO PLANS IN OUR STORE
AN ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF 8% PER PLAN
Give & Receive Tokens
Another highly requested feature, you can also purchase tokens in bulk and give them to others. This is useful for manufacturers who provide plans to their installers and can purchase sealed copies at a discount, then transfer tokens to their dealers & vendors to order sealed plans for permit as needed at no cost to them. Manufacturers receive large volume discounts on tokens. Contact Us to discuss your need.
Find the Give Tokens option on your token dashboard or Click Here if you are logged in to gift Tokens.
Token Terms & Conditions
– No Refunds are offered on tokens or any store purchases. Any returned plan is offered tokens only for like-kind. Delivery fees are not refunded or credited.
– Tokens never expire.
– Plan store items & prices are subject to change without notice.
– Permits are never guaranteed as part of plan store purchases. Plans are generic in nature & are designed to be entry-level, worst-case scenarios for the limitations listed. The firm specializes in converting master plans to custom-designed site-specific installation engineering for permit & remains available for light support or full consultation & assistance as needed & agreed learn more.
– Master plans are never listed for site specific addresses. Should a ‘site specific’ plan be required after review by the authority having jurisdiction, the firm shall consider a credit refund of the master plan toward the site-specific quotation for work.
– Digitally signed plans are limited to the purchasing contractor, up to 15 day date range, & zip code region.
– Any proof of tampering or misuse of any plan offered by the firm in any way is subject to lockout of client, forfeiting of tokens, and may constitute a criminal violation.
See additional terms & conditions by Clicking Here.
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About Plan Store, Calculators & Membership Services 18
The building department is asking for design wind speed – risk category – exposure – address on my master plan – TER What do I tell them?
In the case of Master Plans and Technical Evaluation Reports, product evaluations, master plans, and technical evaluation reports generally list the limiting pressure forces that the product (building component) can withstand (such as these – click here).
Items such as wind speed, risk category, wind exposure are connected to the site-specific condition the building component is being installed to (per ASCE 7 & the IBC/FBC). We rate the product to a limiting force, a design professional uses these variables at a site-specific location to determine whether the building component is suitable for use in that situation.
There can be many combinations of wind speed, exposure, roof height, terrain, and other factors that determine what the design pressure is. It’s not possible for an evaluation report to list every condition and someone needs to ensure the component is good enough for the intended use.
Typically a site-specific letter by us, an architect working on a project, or another design professional is needed to connect the maximum forces on our report with the area it’s being installed. We can provide a separate quote if you cannot get someone else on the project to provide it for you. Click here to request a quote or Chat With Us.
Click here to read more about master plans and how they are used for site-specific locations.
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How can I suggest a master plan for you to provide in your plan store
You can click here to fill out a form to send us information about a master plan or product evaluation report you would like for us to create for purchase in our plan store.
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How To Use Master Plans – TER’s – Calculator Reports Purchased From Engineering Express
READ BELOW BEFORE USING NON SITE-SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS
FROM ENGINEERING EXPRESS FOR YOUR PROJECT
General Information About Non Site-Specific Plans:
Certified Performance Evaluations (also referred to as Master Plans, Generic, or Non Site-Specific Plans) you receive contain a physical or digitally certified engineer seal. They are intended to be used to assist in obtaining a building permit and in constructing the component conveyed in the plan. In all cases using a non-site specific plan, additional documentation is required to serve as approval of use of the purchased document for the intended location. The design professional providing that approval then becomes the responsible party for their use at that location. This additional documentation is provided by others and not part of the purchase of master plans or technical evaluation reports (TER’s) from us.
At no time is construction to be performed without the review and approval by another party of the documents purchased regarding the applicability, limitations of use, and proper selection of plan detail options for the intended installation. In all cases, completed work shall be inspected and approved by others before approval for use including but not limited to the municipality having jurisdiction, architect and/or engineer of record, and permitting contractor which is not our responsibility or part of this purchase.
The documents you purchase from us unless otherwise stated are for sole approval of a pre-engineered, non-site-specific building component subject to the stated limitations of use only and are NOT intended to serve as approval for the construction of any design or installation.
ALSO, AT NO TIME IS ANY PHOTOCOPY OR UNSEALED DOCUMENT TO BE USED OF PLANS FOR PERMIT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. BUILDING CODES REQUIRE AN ORIGINAL, CERTIFIED DOCUMENT FOR EACH PERMIT TO BE VALID FOR USE.
Using Certified Master Plans, TER’s & Other Evaluation Reports
The Master Plans & Technical Evaluation Reports (TER) we provide are structural performance evaluations of the subject building component and do not contain a site-specific address. The certification of those documents approves the limitations of use as stated, NOT that the building component can be used at a specific location. That is the responsibility of others as described herein.
THIS ALSO INCLUDES THE USE OF PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS SUCH AS MIAMI DADE NOA’S, FLORIDA PRODUCT APPROVALS, TEXAS TDI EVALUATIONS, & ICC EVALUATION REPORTS.
The user of the original, certified documents (never photocopies) shall carefully review each detail for applicability to their site-specific condition and gain approval of use for their application by others. Engineering Express remains available for questions via email, online chat, or phone for questions or clarifications of the information within the purchased document and as contained herein which may result in additional engineering consultation fees. Site-specific review and approval and customized & site-specific design plan services are also available which can be performed by this office or another licensed professional.
Using Certified Design Calculator Reports With Addresses Generated By Engineering Express
Printouts from online calculators may come with a site-specific address. It is understood and agreed that the address, as well as all inputted information, is provided by the purchaser at the time of purchase. By agreeing to purchase the document, you understand and affirm that we have not been contracted to a site-specific study, field investigation, or review design plans by others to provide the result you purchased. The site-specific address you provide serves to bind the document to your permit as is required by code and does not constitute that a site-specific or field review has been performed by this firm to authorize their use. The documents also contain information explaining this, as well as the fact that the certified results are to be reviewed by a design professional along with other required construction documents to obtain a permit for construction and use.
The information provided in the purchased document shall at all times be reviewed and approved by others for applicability and accuracy of the intended use prior to permitting and construction. This office is solely providing a result based on the information you provide to us, that you have affirmed to us is accurate at the time of purchase, and that you have had an opportunity to consult with us prior to use if at all in doubt or have any questions about the use of the document we provided. Information regarding contacting us is provided below.
About Digitally Signed Documents
Digitally signed documents typically contain a disclaimer box limiting the use of the document to a specific contractor with a geographic zip code limitation and approved date range to apply for an electronic permit. Digitally signed documents also contain encryption to verify the authenticity of the document which shall be verified by electronic means by others before use.
Digitally signed documents must remain digital and become invalid for use once printed. Scanned copies of printed digitally sealed plans are no longer considered digital and are invalid for use.
The zip code provided in the disclaimer is provided solely to limit repeated use of the document and is not intended to serve as approval that the purchased document is valid for use within that zip code or any site-specific address contained within. Signed documents may also contain a building floor elevation to which the use is limited to which is requested and provided solely to limit misuse of the signed document. Certification at a specific address and building floor is the responsibility of others as described herein.
The date limitation is intended to limit the amount of time the permittee has to submit the document with the electronic application for permit. The document is valid for use within the limitations and building codes provided on the purchased document.
More information about digitally signed documents can be found by clicking here.
About Physical Printed ‘Hardcopies’
Documents that are physically printed (also known as hard copies) are signed and sealed with an embossed or ‘wet’ ink seal by the certifying design professional. For these documents to be valid for use, the ORIGINAL document must be presented to the approving municipality. PHOTOCOPIES OF PRINTED DOCUMENTS ARE NOT CONSIDERED SIGNED AND SEALED AND ARE NOT VALID FOR USE. This firm is not responsible for the use of any photocopied document of our signed and sealed work.
Additionally, markings or alterations to original signed and sealed documents invalidate our certification and require additional review prior to use.
Each signed and sealed document contains information on how to obtain an originally sealed version.
More information about physically signed documents can be found by clicking here.
About Generic Documents Purchased For Building Components Attached To Structures
Documents purchased for host-attached building components (such as overhangs, wall-mounted signs, and rooftop mechanical equipment) DO NOT certify the building component for use on any specific project. Each of these performance evaluations requires another design professional to review and approve the document for the intended site-specific application including the integrity of the host structure to withstand the additional forces placed by the building component at the time of the worst-case design condition (such as during a hurricane, snowstorm, earthquake, maximum occupancy load, etc). THE DOCUMENTS PURCHASED THROUGH THE ONLINE PLAN STORE OR DOWNLOADED FROM A STATE EVALUATION SITE (SUCH AS MIAMI DADE NOA’S OR FL PRODUCT APROVALS) DO NOT DO THIS. ADDITIONAL STEPS MUST BE TAKEN PRIOR TO PERMITTING AND CONSTRUCTION.
The purchased documents solely state the performance limitation of the building component to the loads and design wind/snow/seismic/forces listed within the evaluation. The actual code-minimum design forces for your site-specific project may be HIGHER than the limitations of the purchased document which shall be determined, reviewed, and approved by others and not part of our certification or your purchase.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and not purchased or included in the document you obtain from us.
Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
About Generic Documents Purchased For Freestanding Building Components
Documents purchased for freestanding building components (such as fences, freestanding pergolas, A/C and generator pads, and ground-mounted signs) contain limitations of their use and may contain equivalent design information (such as wind, snow, geotechnical, and seismic equivalent values). These documents DO NOT approve the use of the building component for YOUR APPLICATION. The documents we provide state that IF your application meets the listed limitations of use, the building component can withstand the imposed code-minimum design forces and limitations as stated on the respective plan.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and not purchased or included in the document you obtain from us. Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Other:
While any licensed professional can provide the site-specific information required for use with the purchased documents as described herein, this office welcomes the opportunity to quote these additional services for other businesses. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Certified documents are only valid for the state, building code, and limitations of use listed in the original, certified document. For use in states and building codes other than listed, contact the office for further evaluation which may require alterations to the performance limitations or review and certification by a licensed professional in the state requested.
Please note that while homeowners may purchase documents from our plan store, we do not perform any consultation services directly with homeowners. If you are a homeowner and purchased certified documents from our plan store, please have your contractor contact us, or work with a local licensed professional to complete your application for permit which shall include their approval for use of your purchased documents for your specific project.
We are not responsible for any installation deficiencies that occur from the misuse of any certified document purchased from us. Any deviations from the specifications in our plans, alterations, or markings to our certified documents or use without consulting a design professional is strictly prohibited and INVALIDATE OUR CERTIFICATION. Use of the purchased documents indemnifies & saves harmless the engineer & firm for all cost & damages including legal & appellate fees resulting from deviations of the certified plan as well as material fabrication, system erection, & construction practices beyond which is called for by local, state, & federal codes and standards of care.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and is not included in the document you obtain from us. Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Contact this office with any questions or to request a design consultation which is required prior to permitting and construction to ensure proper use of these documents and a safe, code-compliant design.
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I need a wind load chart for window – door – garage door installation. What do I do?
visit This Link on our Plan Store to find wind pressure charts for each of these items.
We also have a site-specific calculator you could use. If you need the answer certified for permit, you can purchase that right on the calculator.
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is the 6th Edition Florida Building Code still valid? That’s what it says on my plan.
If the controlling permit for your project is dated prior to Jan 1, 2021, then the 6th Edition Florida Building Code is still valid. Otherwise, you will need to place an order for an updated version of the plan (please visit EngineeringExpress.com/store/ to start your search (We recommend beginning with the brand needed if known or project number you have on your outdated plan).
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I heard there’s a calculator online that can help me but I can’t find it. What do I do?
You can find all of our public-use calculators here: EngineeringExpress.com/Calculators
Engineering Express also provides calculators to manufacturers & clients through private links & membership platforms. If you feel you are looking for one of these hidden calculators, contact the manufacturer that is sponsoring that tool.
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Can you verify the size of the plan I’m going to receive?
Our technical evaluation reports are formatted to 8.5″x 11″.
The rest of the plans we provide are in 11″ x 17″ (tabloid) format.
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How can I verify prices for an online plan? Your site shows a range of prices.
All of our plans show two prices, the lowest is the price per hard copy (We sell a minimum of 2 copies which is typically requested by building departments & the minimum fee to maintain the site fees).
The higher amount is for the digitally sealed file, which is only provided as a single quantity & discounted due to the savings in processing.
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I made a mistake with an online calculator value. How can that be fixed?
This can only be done if the order has not been processed or shipped. Please contact our office for further assistance or use our Live Chat during business hours.
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I have a technical question on an online plan. Can you help me?
Please email us your question at [email protected] or send us a Live Chat.
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How can I find the sealed wind load chart I’m told I need for permit?
Use This Link for our plan store to select the wall, garage door, or mechanical wind pressure chart you need. Fill in the wind design parameters you need for your wind load chart order based on information provided by your plan reviewer, architectural plans, or your main design professional.
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I have a different size generator than those listed on a concrete pad master plan. How can that be added?
This would require the project to be site specific.
Please visit EngineeringExpress.com/ExpressPass to apply for access to request a quote for a site-specific project.
Click ‘apply for access’, fill the form and in the description box, please give us an idea of the project you are looking for. After submitting a team leader will contact you back with the following steps.
(This process can’t be done by homeowners. We recommend finding a contractor to assist or another local engineer).
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I placed an order for engineering through E-Tempest / one of your online affiliates. How can I find out the status?
Please contact E-tempest directly to know the status of your order.
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I need a wind calculation for a roof. Can Engineering Express help with that?
As of mid-20201 Engineering Express is taking a break from roof designs to focus more on other building components. Visit EngineeringExpress.com/directory/ for a list of S. Florida engineering firms that could help you with your request.
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The Readymade master plan I ordered didn’t solve my need. I need a site-specific. What do I do?
Please see our Refund Policy for information about refunds.
If you would like to discuss your specific issue, please contact us.
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I’m a contractor looking to purchase a fence / gate or similar plan. What do I do?
Engineering Express allows homeowners & contractors to purchase pre-engineered master plans from our Online Plan Store for a number of building component categories.
These plans are sold as-is without refund.
If changes to master plans or custom design work needs to be performed, contractor must be pre-approved to work with us through our ExpressPass application process.
We only engage in work from contractors that perform numerous projects within a given industry in order to best utilize our express engineering process. If you are not approved for this reason, we recommend finding a local engineer or using your current engineer or architect to create custom design based on the plan purchased from Engineering Express.
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I’m a homeowner looking for a fence & gate (or similar) plan for permit. What do I do?
Engineering Express allows homeowners & contractors to purchase pre-engineered master plans from our Online Plan Store for a number of building component categories.
These plans are sold as-is without refund.
Engineering Express does not engage in customizations for pre-engineered plans with homeowners. If changes to master plans or custom design work needs to be performed, we recommend homeowners get with a licensed contractor and work through a local engineer to help with their need. Due to the nature of our setup, we cannot engage in one-time projects for clients.
For Engineering Express to assist in a custom project, a contractor must be pre-approved to work with us through our ExpressPass application process.
We only engage in work from contractors that perform numerous projects within a given industry in order to best utilize our express engineering process. If you are not approved for this reason, we recommend finding a local engineer or using your current engineer or architect to create custom design based on the plan purchased from Engineering Express.
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Instructions for proper use of rooftop equipment wind pressure calculator
HELP PAGE For the Engineering Express®
Rooftop Equipment Wind Pressure Calculator
Note: See Limitations & Conditions of Use at the end of this article.
Quick Links
Access The Calculator
View The Glossary
Learn Even More
Calculator Inputs
1) Ultimate Wind Velocity (Vult): This is the peak 3-second Ultimate gust wind speed. Consult your building department or engineer for governing codes. For more information on what wind speed to use for your project, click here or visit our Knowledgebase and search ‘wind speed’.
2) ASCE Exposure Category: A terrain classification based on the amount of wind obstacles and ground surface roughness due to natural topography, vegetation, and constructed facilities.
As a general rule:
– Exposure Category ‘B’ applies to urban/suburban areas, wooded areas, or other terrain with numerous, closely-spaced obstructions (trees, buildings, etc.).
– Exposure Category ‘C’ applies to open terrain with scattered obstructions, such as flat, open country or grasslands. If in doubt between Exposure Categories ‘B’ or ‘C’, should be used.
– Exposure Category ‘D’ applies to flat, unobstructed areas and water surfaces. It is typically used for coastline regions, as well as for sites near smooth mud flats, salt flats, and unbroken ice.
For more information on exposure categories, Click Here or visit EngineeringExpress.com/Exposures
3) Mean Roof Height (MRH): This is the average roof height between the peak and eave of the roof. If roof is flat (0° slope), MRH is height from ground to roof level, or simply, the height of the building. For more information, click here or visit our knowledgebase and search ‘roof height’.
4) Input Unit Information: # of Units: This is the number of unique & separate (not on the same stand) rooftop units being installed at a particular site location. The calculator allows up to a maximum of 5 unique units be included as part of the “Order Certified Results” functionality. The calculator default is 1 unique unit. To change the # of units, simply select from the dropdown the number of unique units being installed at the particular site.
If multiple of the same unit are being installed at a particular site location, the unit information need only be inputted once so long as the clearance height is the same for each unit. If clearance height varies, you will need to input the unit information again with the different clearance height(s) to ensure the wind pressure calculations are accurate.
5) Name / Model #: Input the name or model number of the particular rooftop unit. This is a mandatory field, but does not affect wind pressure calculations. Name / model number is used to easily identify the unit during review by a building department official or third-party reviewer.
6) Unit Depth: This is defined as the smallest horizontal unit dimension (i.e. the lesser of unit width and depth). In other words, the length of the shortest unit side. Note: Unit depth does not affect wind pressure calculations. Unit depth is only considered when determining the minimum required clearance height for your unit for sites located in Florida.
7) Unit Height: This is defined as the height from the bottom of the unit to top of the unit. Refer to manufacturer documentation for unit height.
8) Clearance Height: This is defined as the support structure clear height, or height from roof level to the bottom of the unit. This is typically the height provided by a curb or roof stand.
For sites in Florida, there is a minimum required clearance height based on unit depth (shorter dimension). The calculator will display the minimum required clearance height based on the unit depth you input. Exceptions exist to this requirement which may permit the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to allow a lesser minimum required clearance height than what the calculator displays; because of these exceptions, we recommend checking with the AHJ for the final verdict on whether your support structure’s clearance height meets the minimum required clearance height. To allow for these exceptions, you may input any clearance height as an input.
*NOTE: For sites in Florida and outside of Broward and Dade Counties, and if your support structure is a curb, the minimum clearance is 8” per FBCB 1510.10. (In this scenario, ignore the calculator’s displayed minimum clearance). For all other Florida scenarios, follow the calculator’s suggested minimum clearance unless the AHJ permits an exception (check with the AHJ for the final verdict on allowable clearance height).
For more information on minimum required clearance height in Florida, see ecalc.io/clearances.
With all required input fields filled out, output wind pressures will be displayed. The option to “Order Certified Results” will also appear at the top and bottom of the calculator. Click either button to proceed to the order page. Calculator will report if any input fields are not valid. Follow calculator error message as directed to obtain wind pressures and have a professional engineer review and provide certified results for permit.
You will receive a signed and sealed hard copy or digitally signed copy of the results after they are reviewed by design professionals on staff. Results are intended to be used as the structural portion which along with your other documentation to obtain a building permit which is to be inspected by others for final approval.
Fees are listed on the checkout page and may vary. Discounts for frequent use are available through our tokens system.
Glossary
To see a full glossary of terminology used in this calculator and Help Guide, click here for our full glossary or search for the glossary in our knowledgebase.
Explanation of Calculations
Calculations performed by this calculator are as described on the following page:
Lateral Wind Pressure: ASCE 7-16 References
Fh,ult = (qh)(GCr)(Af) (ASCE 7-16, 29.4-1, p. 322)
DPh,ult = Fh,ult / Af = (qh)(GCr) (ASCE 7-16, 30.10, p. 380)
“qh = qz using Kz at Mean Roof Height h” (ASCE 7-16, 26.10.2, p. 268)
qz = 0.00256(Kz)(Kzt)(Kd)(Ke)(V2) psf (ASCE 7-16, 26.10-1, p. 268)
Kz is based on height z in ft and the equation/table specified right: (ASCE 7-16, 26.10.2, p. 268 & Table 26.11-1, p. 269)
z is taken as height of unit centroid above roof level: z = h + (Clearance Height) + (Unit Height / 2)
Kzt is 1.0 for sites located on flat terrain (ASCE 7-16, 26.8.2, p. 267-268)
Kd is 0.85 for rooftop equipment (ASCE 7-16, Table 26.6-1, p. 266)
Ke is 1.0 for site elevations at sea-level. Applicable for all other sites. (ASCE 7-16, Table 26.9-1, p. 268)
V = ultimate wind speed, Vult, in miles per hour (ASCE 7-16, 26.5.1, p. 249)
GCr = 1.9 for lateral wind pressure (worst-case) (ASCE 7-16, 29.4-1, p. 322)
DPh,ASD = ± DPh,ult x 0.6 (ASCE 7-16, 2.4.1, p. 8)
“The [lateral] pressure shall be considered to act inward and outward.” (ASCE 7-16, 30.10, p. 380)
Uplift Wind Pressure:
Fv,ult = (qh)(GCr)(Af) (ASCE 7-16, 29.4-1, p. 322)
DPv,ult = Fv,ult / Af = (qh)(GCr) (ASCE 7-16, 30.10, p. 380)
(Same qh as calculated above for lateral wind pressures) (ASCE 7-16, 29.4-1, p. 322)
GCr = 1.5 for uplift wind pressure (worst-case) (ASCE 7-16, 29.4-1, p. 322)
DPv,ASD = ± DPv,ult x 0.6 (ASCE 7-16, 2.4.1, p. 8)
“The [upward] pressure shall be considered to act in the upward direction.” (ASCE 7-16, 30.10, p. 380)
Examples:
Example 1: Unit Mount to Roof Stand
Input Unit Information:
You are installing (3) of the same unit for this project, but they are each being mounted to a roof stand of the same height: # of Units = 1.
You input the model number for your unit. The unit width is 55.8 in. The unit height is 47.3 in.
The clearance height is the same as stand height: 34 in. (This satisfies Florida’s minimum required clearance height of 30in for a 55.8in wide unit).
Output Wind Pressures:
You should obtain ASD wind pressures of: ± 123.0 psf lateral and 97.1 uplift. The “Order Certified Results” button will appear if you would like to order these results to submit to a building department for permit.
Example 2: Unit Mount to Roof Curb
Let us assume we are installing the condition shown above: a rooftop unit mounting to a steel roof curb. The site is a 140 ft tall office building with a flat roof in Deerfield Beach, Florida. The site is a few miles inland from the coastline. The building has a road with other buildings on the south end, medium-sized parking lots (~100 cars per lot) on the east and west ends, and a grassy field on the north end.
The unit in question is a 28.7in tall, 35.5in wide, and 30in deep. The roof curb is 20in tall. What should we input to the calculator, and what should the calculator output?
Input Site-Specific Conditions:
Upon contacting the Broward County building department or engineer, you are advised to use 175 mph as your Vult.
The Exposure varies between categories B and C depending on the wind direction (if wind approaches from the south end, it would classify as Exposure B. If from the north end, it would classify as Exposure C. For the east and west ends, it could be justified as either Exposures B or C depending on the size of the parking lot and interpretation of the engineer/reviewing party). In order to ensure Exposure category is accepted without question, it is recommended to select Exposure Category C.
For a building with a flat roof, the mean roof height is equal to the building height: 140 feet.
Input Unit Information:
You are installing (2) of the same unit for this project, mounted to roof curbs of equal height: # of Units = 1.
You input the model number for the unit. The unit width is 35.5 in. The unit height is 28.7 in.
The clearance height is the same as stand height: 20 in. (This satisfies Florida’s minimum required clearance height of 18 in for a 35.5 in wide unit).
Output Wind Pressures:
You should see the ASD (Allowable Stress Design) wind pressures of: ± 103.7psf lateral and 81.9 uplift. The “Order Certified Results” button will appear if you would like to order these results to submit to a building department for permit.
Limitations & Conditions of Use
NO WORK SHALL BE CONSIDERED VALID FOR USE WITHOUT THE REVIEW AND CERTIFICATION BY A LICENSED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL.
THIS DOCUMENT & CALCULATOR ARE GUIDANCE ONLY FOR ESTIMATING, ASSISTING DESIGN PROFESSIONALS, & ESTABLISHING COMMUNICATION WITH CODE-COMPLIANT UNIFORMITY IN THIS FIELD.
» It is on the user of this calculator to ensure support structure height meets the required FBC minimum clearance height if the site is located in Florida. For more information, click here or visit ecalc.io/clearances.
» The “Rooftop Equipment Wind Pressure Calculator” produces allowable stress design (ASD) wind pressures based on ASCE 7-16, Section 29.4.1: Rooftop Structures and Equipment for Buildings, and is in accordance with the Florida Building Code Seventh Edition (2020) and International Building Codes 2015 & 2018. Results are also valid for ASCE 7-10, Florida Building Code Sixth Edition (2017), and International Building Code 2012.
» Design pressure results are in accordance with the codes and standards listed above and are applicable for rooftop equipment only.
» The following structures are not permissible for use with this calculator: Solid freestanding walls and signs, open signs, buildings, roofs, domes, chimneys, tanks, solar panels, and ground-mounted equipment. For these installations, please consult our other Design Aid Calculators or contact this office.
» Sample rooftop equipment that are permissible for use with this calculator include: mini-split units, packaged units, VRF units, generator enclosures, commercial chillers, and other split systems / mechanical equipment. Wall-mounted equipment mentioned prior that is mounted greater than 15 ft above grade are also permissible.
» Results are based on client-supplied data and are not field-verified by this office. Results are only valid with original or verifiable digital seal by a licensed Professional Engineer of this firm. Site-specific conditions and unit information shall be verified by others prior to permit and use. Selection of units’ respective product approval(s) shall be by others. Product approval(s) shall provide a performance rating capable of withstanding the ASD design pressures stated herein.
» ASD wind pressures produced by this calculator consider only the wind component of loading on the equipment. Other loading such as dead load is not considered. To consider full ASD load combinations as specified by ASCE 7-16 Section 2.4 and FBCB 2020 Section 1605.3, other loading considerations in addition to the calculated wind pressures will need to be considered.
Ultimate wind pressures may be obtained by dividing the allowable stress design (ASD) wind pressures given by this calculator by 0.6. Akin to above, full ultimate load combinations are not considered. Ultimate wind pressures derived by the stated method accounts only for the worst-case wind component of loading.
» Except as expressly provided herein, no additional certifications or affirmations are intended by use of this calculator or instructions contained herein.
» This calculator is for estimating purposes only and NOT for permit use. Results are only valid when reviewed, signed, and sealed by a Professional Engineer from Engineering Express. Click “Order Certified Results” in the filled-out calculator page to order a review and certification delivered to you for permit.
» In order for calculations to be valid:
- Mean Roof Height shall be between 15 ft (the minimum) & 700 ft.
- The building upon which the unit(s) are installed shall be situated on flat terrain. (Buildings in the immediate vicinity of hills, ridges, or escarpments are subject to different wind load calculations).
» *Florida only: Per FBCB Sections 1510.10 & 1522.3, roof-mounted equipment must be provided the minimum required clearance height based upon the unit’s width (i.e. longest side of unit) and whether or not the unit is located within/outside the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone. For more information, see: https://ecalc.io/clearances
» Please consider all above conditions before using this calculator.
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About Digital & Hardcopy-Sealed Engineering Work 18
Search our AC model Database
Click Here to access our model database tool. You can filter by your AC brand, model, and number to find the TER report you need to purchase for permit.
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How To Validate A Digital Signature On An Engineers Digitally-Sealed Plan
Digital signatures for engineers in Florida require third-party validation per FAC 61G15-23.004. Other states offer similar rules that require the signature to be verifiable to which this also applies.
Here’s how to check a digitally signed document in Adobe & Bluebeam to ensure the signature is valid.
How To Verify In Adobe
A digitally signed document in Adobe Reader or their Pro DC version will show a blue bar up top.
Method 1: That bar will indicate whether the document is VALID, Invalid, or needs verification. If it doesn’t say valid, try method 2 below. If neither prove verifiable, the document was either modified or was not properly digitally signed in the first place.
Method 2: Click the digital signature and the verification box will appear. That box will show details of whether or not the signature is valid.
If you click the ‘Signature Properties’ button within that dialog box, you’ll see additional information about the signature such as the third party that is validating the signature (in this case it’s Entrust.
Learn more about Adobe digital signature verification from their website by clicking here.
How To Verify in Bluebeam
Verifying a digitally signed document in Bluebeam is similar but not as obvious as Adobe. No blue bar appears but there are 2 ways of verifying:
Method 1: Right Click The Digital Signature and select ‘properties’ to reveal the signature properties:
Method 2: Use the Information Panel – to show the signature panel in Bluebeam, go to Window > Panels > Signature OR press Alt+4. if the current document has been digitally signed, it will show as per the below in the signature panel:
Learn more about how to verify digital signatures in Bluebeam by clicking here.
For more information about digital & electronic signatures from our Knowledge Base, click here.
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How To Use Master Plans – TER’s – Calculator Reports Purchased From Engineering Express
READ BELOW BEFORE USING NON SITE-SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS
FROM ENGINEERING EXPRESS FOR YOUR PROJECT
General Information About Non Site-Specific Plans:
Certified Performance Evaluations (also referred to as Master Plans, Generic, or Non Site-Specific Plans) you receive contain a physical or digitally certified engineer seal. They are intended to be used to assist in obtaining a building permit and in constructing the component conveyed in the plan. In all cases using a non-site specific plan, additional documentation is required to serve as approval of use of the purchased document for the intended location. The design professional providing that approval then becomes the responsible party for their use at that location. This additional documentation is provided by others and not part of the purchase of master plans or technical evaluation reports (TER’s) from us.
At no time is construction to be performed without the review and approval by another party of the documents purchased regarding the applicability, limitations of use, and proper selection of plan detail options for the intended installation. In all cases, completed work shall be inspected and approved by others before approval for use including but not limited to the municipality having jurisdiction, architect and/or engineer of record, and permitting contractor which is not our responsibility or part of this purchase.
The documents you purchase from us unless otherwise stated are for sole approval of a pre-engineered, non-site-specific building component subject to the stated limitations of use only and are NOT intended to serve as approval for the construction of any design or installation.
ALSO, AT NO TIME IS ANY PHOTOCOPY OR UNSEALED DOCUMENT TO BE USED OF PLANS FOR PERMIT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. BUILDING CODES REQUIRE AN ORIGINAL, CERTIFIED DOCUMENT FOR EACH PERMIT TO BE VALID FOR USE.
Using Certified Master Plans, TER’s & Other Evaluation Reports
The Master Plans & Technical Evaluation Reports (TER) we provide are structural performance evaluations of the subject building component and do not contain a site-specific address. The certification of those documents approves the limitations of use as stated, NOT that the building component can be used at a specific location. That is the responsibility of others as described herein.
THIS ALSO INCLUDES THE USE OF PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS SUCH AS MIAMI DADE NOA’S, FLORIDA PRODUCT APPROVALS, TEXAS TDI EVALUATIONS, & ICC EVALUATION REPORTS.
The user of the original, certified documents (never photocopies) shall carefully review each detail for applicability to their site-specific condition and gain approval of use for their application by others. Engineering Express remains available for questions via email, online chat, or phone for questions or clarifications of the information within the purchased document and as contained herein which may result in additional engineering consultation fees. Site-specific review and approval and customized & site-specific design plan services are also available which can be performed by this office or another licensed professional.
Using Certified Design Calculator Reports With Addresses Generated By Engineering Express
Printouts from online calculators may come with a site-specific address. It is understood and agreed that the address, as well as all inputted information, is provided by the purchaser at the time of purchase. By agreeing to purchase the document, you understand and affirm that we have not been contracted to a site-specific study, field investigation, or review design plans by others to provide the result you purchased. The site-specific address you provide serves to bind the document to your permit as is required by code and does not constitute that a site-specific or field review has been performed by this firm to authorize their use. The documents also contain information explaining this, as well as the fact that the certified results are to be reviewed by a design professional along with other required construction documents to obtain a permit for construction and use.
The information provided in the purchased document shall at all times be reviewed and approved by others for applicability and accuracy of the intended use prior to permitting and construction. This office is solely providing a result based on the information you provide to us, that you have affirmed to us is accurate at the time of purchase, and that you have had an opportunity to consult with us prior to use if at all in doubt or have any questions about the use of the document we provided. Information regarding contacting us is provided below.
About Digitally Signed Documents
Digitally signed documents typically contain a disclaimer box limiting the use of the document to a specific contractor with a geographic zip code limitation and approved date range to apply for an electronic permit. Digitally signed documents also contain encryption to verify the authenticity of the document which shall be verified by electronic means by others before use.
Digitally signed documents must remain digital and become invalid for use once printed. Scanned copies of printed digitally sealed plans are no longer considered digital and are invalid for use.
The zip code provided in the disclaimer is provided solely to limit repeated use of the document and is not intended to serve as approval that the purchased document is valid for use within that zip code or any site-specific address contained within. Signed documents may also contain a building floor elevation to which the use is limited to which is requested and provided solely to limit misuse of the signed document. Certification at a specific address and building floor is the responsibility of others as described herein.
The date limitation is intended to limit the amount of time the permittee has to submit the document with the electronic application for permit. The document is valid for use within the limitations and building codes provided on the purchased document.
More information about digitally signed documents can be found by clicking here.
About Physical Printed ‘Hardcopies’
Documents that are physically printed (also known as hard copies) are signed and sealed with an embossed or ‘wet’ ink seal by the certifying design professional. For these documents to be valid for use, the ORIGINAL document must be presented to the approving municipality. PHOTOCOPIES OF PRINTED DOCUMENTS ARE NOT CONSIDERED SIGNED AND SEALED AND ARE NOT VALID FOR USE. This firm is not responsible for the use of any photocopied document of our signed and sealed work.
Additionally, markings or alterations to original signed and sealed documents invalidate our certification and require additional review prior to use.
Each signed and sealed document contains information on how to obtain an originally sealed version.
More information about physically signed documents can be found by clicking here.
About Generic Documents Purchased For Building Components Attached To Structures
Documents purchased for host-attached building components (such as overhangs, wall-mounted signs, and rooftop mechanical equipment) DO NOT certify the building component for use on any specific project. Each of these performance evaluations requires another design professional to review and approve the document for the intended site-specific application including the integrity of the host structure to withstand the additional forces placed by the building component at the time of the worst-case design condition (such as during a hurricane, snowstorm, earthquake, maximum occupancy load, etc). THE DOCUMENTS PURCHASED THROUGH THE ONLINE PLAN STORE OR DOWNLOADED FROM A STATE EVALUATION SITE (SUCH AS MIAMI DADE NOA’S OR FL PRODUCT APROVALS) DO NOT DO THIS. ADDITIONAL STEPS MUST BE TAKEN PRIOR TO PERMITTING AND CONSTRUCTION.
The purchased documents solely state the performance limitation of the building component to the loads and design wind/snow/seismic/forces listed within the evaluation. The actual code-minimum design forces for your site-specific project may be HIGHER than the limitations of the purchased document which shall be determined, reviewed, and approved by others and not part of our certification or your purchase.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and not purchased or included in the document you obtain from us.
Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
About Generic Documents Purchased For Freestanding Building Components
Documents purchased for freestanding building components (such as fences, freestanding pergolas, A/C and generator pads, and ground-mounted signs) contain limitations of their use and may contain equivalent design information (such as wind, snow, geotechnical, and seismic equivalent values). These documents DO NOT approve the use of the building component for YOUR APPLICATION. The documents we provide state that IF your application meets the listed limitations of use, the building component can withstand the imposed code-minimum design forces and limitations as stated on the respective plan.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and not purchased or included in the document you obtain from us. Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Other:
While any licensed professional can provide the site-specific information required for use with the purchased documents as described herein, this office welcomes the opportunity to quote these additional services for other businesses. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Certified documents are only valid for the state, building code, and limitations of use listed in the original, certified document. For use in states and building codes other than listed, contact the office for further evaluation which may require alterations to the performance limitations or review and certification by a licensed professional in the state requested.
Please note that while homeowners may purchase documents from our plan store, we do not perform any consultation services directly with homeowners. If you are a homeowner and purchased certified documents from our plan store, please have your contractor contact us, or work with a local licensed professional to complete your application for permit which shall include their approval for use of your purchased documents for your specific project.
We are not responsible for any installation deficiencies that occur from the misuse of any certified document purchased from us. Any deviations from the specifications in our plans, alterations, or markings to our certified documents or use without consulting a design professional is strictly prohibited and INVALIDATE OUR CERTIFICATION. Use of the purchased documents indemnifies & saves harmless the engineer & firm for all cost & damages including legal & appellate fees resulting from deviations of the certified plan as well as material fabrication, system erection, & construction practices beyond which is called for by local, state, & federal codes and standards of care.
The determination of the applicability of the use of the purchased documents is the sole responsibility of others and is not included in the document you obtain from us. Engineering Express can provide a quotation for these additional site-specific services. Click Here to apply for access to our quoting system to submit a site-specific design request.
Contact this office with any questions or to request a design consultation which is required prior to permitting and construction to ensure proper use of these documents and a safe, code-compliant design.
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When will I receive my order? How long does it take to get my digitally signed-sealed file sent to me?
For Online plan orders, we do our best to get your digitally signed and sealed file reviewed, sealed by an engineer, & emailed back to you within 24 hours / the next business day.
If a plan is requested in the morning (Eastern Time), it is typically available the same business day.
Digitally sealed files are also uploaded and available to you via your Plan Store Dashboard.
For online plan order hardcopies that are mailed:
We review, seal, and send out plans that are requested in physical (hardcopy) format the same business day via UPS ground. These plans are typically delivered overnight in the South Florida area. Give the plans 24-48 hours to be received.
Custom, site-specific projects
Projects that are quoted are delivered in accordance with our signed contracts & are managed through our ExpressPass System.
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Why is there an expiration on digitally signed-sealed plans and how does that work for permitting?
Because a digitally sealed plan can be copied and reused while maintaining the digital signature certification, plans produced by engineering express that are not site-specific are encoded with limitations of use that restrict their use for permitting to a single project.
Engineering Express encodes master plans with the permitting contractor, zip code restriction, and a date at which the permit must be applied for using that plan. If any of these three items don’t fit the intended permit, the digitally signed & sealed file is not to be used to obtain a permit.
NOTES:
- If the date needs to be extended beyond the expiration for the intended permit, click here to contact the office & discuss your needs or start a chat with us.
- The zip code restriction validates a small geographic region for use while maintaining master plan sheet status and not creating a site-specific project. Site-specific projects require more engineering design & liability and are quoted separately.
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The date on my plans is old – Do I need a plan with a current date?
Plans & TER’s are dated when sealed and are tied to the listed building codes. The original sealed hardcopy versions are valid throughout the code cycle. The digitally sealed files that are not site-specific are encoded with an expiration date which would be listed in a red information box on the document. Site-specific projects that are digitally sealed are valid for use throughout the code cycle.
Remember, photocopies of originally sealed files and altered digitally sealed files are not valid to be used for permit. Only original engineering documents may be used to comply with code.
If you have any other questions, chat or contact us.
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What is the current Florida Building Code
Effective January 1, 2021, the current Florida code is the 2020 Florida Building Code (7th Edition). It’s scheduled to be in service for roughly (3) years from that date.
Check here for any updates & changes: https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes/florida
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I have a technical question on an online plan. Can you help me?
Please email us your question at [email protected] or send us a Live Chat.
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I received a hardcopy (printed) plan and need a digitally signed-sealed file. What do I do?
You will need to place a new order in our online plan store for the same plan but select ‘digitally sealed file’ under the ‘plan format’ option & re-pay for the plan.
If you can return the physical plan we will provide Tokens as credits for additional orders. See our Refund policy for more.
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What’s the difference between a hardcopy and a digitally signed – sealed file?
Hard copies are only to be used physically and digitally signed and sealed files electronically only. You can find more information here: EngineeringExpress.com/wiki/whats-the-difference-between-a-digitally-sealed-plan-and-a-scanned-digital-copy-of-a-plan
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I’m a homeowner in need of a site specific plan / custom project. Can you help?
Unfortunately Engineering Express does not work directly with homeowners for site-specific projects.
Visit EngineeringExpress.com/directory/ for a list of S. Florida engineering firms that could help you with your request or search online for an engineer near you.
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I received a comment from the city / building department / plan reviewer on an online plan. What do I do?
FIRST: Get the permit # & plan reviewer’s contact information.
THEN: Get the comments IN WRITING.
LAST: Provide us with our order # (for online orders) or Project # (for site-specific ExpressPass orders).
Forward that information to [email protected]. We are not going to be able to help you without ALL the above information.
Note: comments that request additional work that was not part of our project scope may be subject to additional fees which will be discussed with you before the additional work begins.
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I placed an order for engineering through E-Tempest / one of your online affiliates. How can I find out the status?
Please contact E-tempest directly to know the status of your order.
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I ordered a project through E-Tempest. What’s the process for receiving a digitally signed-sealed file?
Engineering Express provides engineering review & certification of orders placed through E-Tempest shutter software. If you ordered the digitally signed and sealed file from E-Tempest, it will be emailed to you as a PDF attachment. If you requested Hard copies but need a digitally signed – sealed file, please contact E-Tempest directly.
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How can I get my digitally signed – sealed file resent to me?
Use the live chat during business hours or use our Contact Form for the most reliable service.
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I need to place an online plan order for a digitally signed-sealed file. How does that work?
Visit EngineeringExpress.com/store & search for the plan you need. We recommend beginning by the brand needed.
Once you find the plan, you will be able to select the output format you need before you add the product to your cart.
After the order gets processed, the digitally sealed file will be emailed as a secure, encrypted PDF file to the email provided at the checkout.
Critical to understanding is that this file cannot be printed, which invalidates the encryption. Digitally signed and sealed files are designed to be directly uploaded to ePermit systems. Scanned copies do not contain the encryption and are not validated for use.
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What digital signing company does Engineering Express use for digitally signing design plans?
Engineering Express uses both Entrust & Identrust to digitally sign files. Both are in conformance with all known state regulations and are Adobe compliant.
Some local jurisdictions are picky though. If they require one company over another please let us know and we’ll use the appropriate digital signature encryption.
By default we use Entrust.
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Whats The Difference Between a Digitally Signed Plan, Electronic Seal, & Scanned Digital Copy of a Plan?
HISTORY
Back in the day, kings used wax to seal an envelope to prove its authenticity. That seal evolved over time to become variations of paper embossing and ink ‘wet’ sealing up until this day to certify blueprints by architects and engineers. In today’s digital world, a more secure solution is needed.
Engineering documents are required to have a proper seal in all states in the US. Here’s the rule for Florida our native state: FAC 61G15-23.001. Other states follow similar regulations.
SCANNING
The FAX machine used to be the ‘digital’ way to transmit paper from one source to another. Paper was ‘digitized’ and ‘recreated’ after transmission through phone lines. The recipient might even view the paper file on their computer screens, seeing a ‘digitized’ version of the paper original.
This concept was later refined to allow printers/copiers/scanners to ‘scan’ in the paper copy and create a digital ‘PDF’ or similar file copy.
Keep in mind that in the case of engineering and architectural plans, this is just a ‘digitized’ representation of an originally sealed file, and not a ‘digitally sealed’ set of plans.
DIGITALLY SIGNED PLANS – SO WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
A file that is digitally signed (typically used for electronic permitting systems) takes any PDF set of plans, whether it was originally sealed or not, and ‘encodes’ a digitally sealed key onto the PDF. In the case of digitally sealed plans, half of the key is on the file itself and the other half is typically stored in the cloud in a secure location by a company that has already validated the person signing it. that person (a licensed engineer or architect in this scenario), has gone through an application and verification process with this approved ‘third party’ validation service and has received not only a password, but in many cases a USB Flash Drive ‘key’ to further authenticate their certification.
These plans can be verified by clicking the blue bar at the top of the real PDF or clicking the digital signature itself and viewing the signer’s information and document properties. NO BLUE BAR OR VALID SEAL? It’s not real. The digital signature needs to show as verified by an authorized third party (such as Entrust, Globalsign, or Identrust) and not via a local or unknown source.
Keep in mind each state has its own digital signature requirements which need to be verified before submitting digitally signed plans. That information can be found on each state’s respective board of engineers’ website.
Also, digitally signed documents lock and encode the ‘file’, not each page. While it is technically possible via special software to put a digital seal on every page, only a single page is required to have the seal as that’s the lock and key for the FILE, not pages. It’s a different mindset to seeing seals on each page as in the past. What is possible however is to place a seal ‘stamp’ on each page, then digitally seal the file to lock the integrity.
Remember the rule: Once digital, always digital. Once hard copy, always hard copy. Translation: Digitally sealed plans can only exist as native to digital worlds. Once a hard copy – sealed plan is scanned, that’s not the originally sealed file!
Sometimes, municipalities and reviewing authorities do rely on a paper version of a digitally sealed file and vice versa at some point in their permitting and inspection process, but to be proper the originally certified document must be submitted and use beyond that is verified by the source document (examples include as a product evaluation from ICC, FL, Miami, TDI, or a permit set on record at a building department that’s printed for field convenience).
ELECTRONICALLY SIGNED PLANS – A LESSER ALTERNATIVE
Some states (such as Florida) must offer a ‘free version’ of a digital seal method to be compliant with their laws. For this reason, an ‘Electronic Seal’ has been created. This allows self-signing of a digital file (using Adobe in itself to digitally stamp a plan that’s NOT verified by a third-party). These electronic, unverified plans need to be accompanied by an affidavit signed, sealed, and scanned by the engineer or architect that proves its authenticity. More about this can be found in FL at FAC 61G15-23.005 (other states are similar).
This frequently gets confusing for building departments who sometimes still ask for an affidavit even though a true ‘digitally sealed’ version has been presented. The below helps explain each for Florida.
Also, find below a PDF presentation Engineering Express has made for building officials and has even presented in seminars to municipalities to explain.
FLORIDA RULE
Florida Rule (our corporate home) regarding digital signatures can be found by clicking here. Rules from other states to which our engineers are personally licensed here can be researched online and adopt similar rules.
As of November 2020, the Florida Administrative Code reads for DIGITALLY SEALED PLANS:
61G15-23.004 Procedures for Digitally Signing and Sealing Electronically Transmitted Plans, Specifications, Reports or Other Documents.
(1) Engineering plans, specifications, reports or other documents which must be signed, dated and sealed in accordance with the provisions of section 471.025, F.S., and rule 61G15-23.001, F.A.C., may be signed digitally as provided herein by the professional engineer in responsible charge. As used herein, the terms “certification authority,” and “digital signature” shall have the meanings ascribed to them in sections 668.003(2) and (3), F.S.
(2) A professional engineer utilizing a digital signature to electronically sign and seal engineering plans, specifications, reports or other documents shall have their identity authenticated by a certification authority and shall assure that the digital signature is: [NOTE BY AUTHOR: DIGITAL SEALS ARE AUTHENTICATED BY A THIRD PARTY AND DON’T NEED AN AFFIDAVIT, THAT’S ONLY IF THIRD PARTY AUTHENTICATION IS NOT USED. SEE BELOW FOR 61G15-23.005 THAT PERTAINS TO ELECTRONIC VS DIGITAL SEALS]
(a) Unique to the person using it;
(b) Capable of verification;
(c) Under the sole control of the person using it; and,
(d) Linked to a document in such a manner that the digital signature and correspondingly the document is invalidated if any data in the document is changed.
(3) The affixing of a digital signature to engineering plans, specifications, reports or other documents as provided herein shall constitute the signing and sealing of such items.
(a) A digitally created seal as set forth in rule 61G15-23.002, F.A.C., may be placed where it would appear if the item were being physically signed, dated and sealed.
(b) The date that the digital signature was placed into the document must appear on the document in accordance with subsection 61G15-23.001(4), F.A.C., and where it would appear if the item were being physically signed, dated and sealed.
(c) The engineering plans, specifications, reports or other documents being digitally signed and sealed shall include text to indicate the following and place it where an original signature would appear if the item were being physically signed, dated and sealed:
1. The same information required by subsection 61G15-23.002(2), F.A.C., if a digitally created image of the seal is not use;
2. The item has been digitally signed and sealed; and,
3. Printed copies of this document are not considered signed and sealed and all signatures must be verified on any electronic copies.
[excerpt, see the FAC link above for more about the sealed format]
The ELECTRONIC METHOD requires an affidavit that validates the seal in the event there is no third party doing so (like in the digital seal).
THIS IS DIFFERENT THAN AN ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE THAT NEEDS AN AFFIDAVIT. THAT’S COVERED UNDER 61G15-23.005 AND DOES NOT APPLY TO OUR DIGITAL SEALS! PLEASE DO NOT ASK US FOR THAT FORM, DIGITAL SEALS ARE 3RD PARTY APPROVED AND EXEMPT FROM THIS REQUIREMENT PER FLORIDA STATUTES.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Click Here to download our PDF Presentation to building officials regarding digital vs. electronic signatures.
Also, see our page EngineeringExpress.com/Signature for verification of our principal engineer’s signature and more on this rule requirement.
Also, click here to learn how to use certified pre-engineered master plans, TER’s & Evaluation Reports provided by Engineering Express
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About Our Site-Specific Project Process (ExpressPass) 25
How do I submit my completed drawings to the city?
Engineering Express only provides engineer-sealed structural drawings for your project. Submitting these drawings to the city is the responsibility of the permitting contractor.
We encourage the use of qualified permit application companies to assist if you are new to the process. These companies are independent of this firm. Information provided via the below link is to assist you in your search for permit runners, generally in the South Florida area.
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I have a change in a site specific project that’s in progress / completed. What do I do?
Please contact our project manager through your ExpressPass dashboard
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I need to create an NOA / product approval for my product. What’s the process?
Start by reading our articles about product approvals by Clicking Here. You’ll learn when they’re really needed, what information we need, how they help, and much more.
> In short, products ‘inside the rule‘ require product approval in Florida.
> This is done by a combination of testing & rational analysis as determined by code.
> Most products such as windows, doors, and roofing require extensive testing. From there, the tests can be uploaded to the State of Florida or Evaluated by an engineer. Product Evaluations allow variations such as alternate sizes, substrates, and anchoring.
> Prior to testing, a qualified firm should be retained to establish a test protocol to maximize the use of the test results. That firm needs to be independent of the lab conducting the testing.
> With testing complete, the evaluating engineer would consult with you on the best format to display the evaluation.
> For Florida Product Approvals, prior to submitting to the state, a Validator and Quality Assurance entity needs to be retained to provide the 3rd party assurance that the evaluation is performed per code and the product meets the tested parameters over time.
> After the Florida Approval is granted, the document registration number can be used for permit in Florida if the installation matches the intent of the evaluation report. Typically a local design professional (architect or engineer) is retained to establish the design criteria of the local installation and ‘approve’ the approval for use at that location/opening. Modifications may be permitted if performed within the guidelines of the building code, referenced standards, and the limitations of the evaluation.
You can search Florida & Miami Dade Product Approvals for similar examples of your product for consideration by clicking here.
When you’re ready for Engineering Express to help & have the information gathered in the articles, visit EngineeringExpress.com/ExpressPass to apply for access & request a quote for your product evaluation. We will contact you shortly thereafter to discuss your needs & detail & how our national certifications can help.
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I have a different brand product than the one you specify but it’s similar. How can I get mine certified for permit?
This would require the project to be site specific.
Please visit EngineeringExpress.com/ExpressPass to apply for access to request a quote for a site-specific project.
Click ‘apply for access’, fill the form and in the description box, please give us an idea of the project you are looking for. After submitting a team leader will contact you back with the following steps.
(This process can’t be done by homeowners. We recommend finding a contractor to assist or another local engineer).
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I have a different size generator than those listed on a concrete pad master plan. How can that be added?
This would require the project to be site specific.
Please visit EngineeringExpress.com/ExpressPass to apply for access to request a quote for a site-specific project.
Click ‘apply for access’, fill the form and in the description box, please give us an idea of the project you are looking for. After submitting a team leader will contact you back with the following steps.
(This process can’t be done by homeowners. We recommend finding a contractor to assist or another local engineer).
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I need an inspection done. Can you help?
Due to our exposive national demand & specialized design expertise, Engineering Express no longer performs inspections. Visit EngineeringExpress.com/directory/ for a list of S. Florida engineering firms that could help you with your request or search online for a local engineer near you.
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I’m a homeowner in need of a site specific plan / custom project. Can you help?
Unfortunately Engineering Express does not work directly with homeowners for site-specific projects.
Visit EngineeringExpress.com/directory/ for a list of S. Florida engineering firms that could help you with your request or search online for an engineer near you.
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I received a comment from the city / building department / plan reviewer on an online plan. What do I do?
FIRST: Get the permit # & plan reviewer’s contact information.
THEN: Get the comments IN WRITING.
LAST: Provide us with our order # (for online orders) or Project # (for site-specific ExpressPass orders).
Forward that information to [email protected]. We are not going to be able to help you without ALL the above information.
Note: comments that request additional work that was not part of our project scope may be subject to additional fees which will be discussed with you before the additional work begins.
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How can I modify an existing quote request placed through ExpressPass?
Please contact our project manager through your ExpressPass dashboard
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I need a wind calculation for a roof. Can Engineering Express help with that?
As of mid-20201 Engineering Express is taking a break from roof designs to focus more on other building components. Visit EngineeringExpress.com/directory/ for a list of S. Florida engineering firms that could help you with your request.
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I can’t find an order that was supposedly emailed to me. What can I do?
Please check your email spam folder.
If you still can’t or have not received it after being notified the “Completed” status of your order please email us your order information at [email protected] & ask that it be re-emailed.
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How can I change a contact for your ExpressPass site specific project?
Access your ExpressPass account with your ExpressPass code and click edit profile.
For existing projects, you will be able to change/modify the contact for your project. For new projects, you can select the new contact at the time of ordering.
You can edit modify, & delete the contact list from the edit profile page.
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I ordered a project through E-Tempest. What’s the process for receiving a digitally signed-sealed file?
Engineering Express provides engineering review & certification of orders placed through E-Tempest shutter software. If you ordered the digitally signed and sealed file from E-Tempest, it will be emailed to you as a PDF attachment. If you requested Hard copies but need a digitally signed – sealed file, please contact E-Tempest directly.
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I’m looking for a model not shown on the chart in a Technical Evaluation Report (TER). What do I do?
Engineering Express would love to have every model unit of an A/C or generator pre-engineered. We can only engineer what we’re hired to do by the manufacturer so letting them know is always an option.
If you are a contractor & in need of our help right away, you would need to order a site-specific design so we can process 1 model for 1 address efficiently & inexpensively. Visit EngineeringExpress.com/ExpressPass, to apply for an account & request a quote for a site-specific project.
Click at apply for access, fill the form and in the description box, please give us an idea of the project you are looking for, after submitting a team leader will contact you back with the following steps.
(This process can’t be done by homeowners. We recommend hiring a contractor or calling the manufacturer. We simply cannot handle the volume of homeowner requests with the price point needed & volume of information we need to obtain).
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How can I clarify my account status with Engineering Express?
If you have reason to believe your account is not in good standing, or if a designer tells you they cannot process your work due to your account status, contact our office to help you further with your request by sending an email to [email protected] or using our general Contact Us form.
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I have a question about project statuses and what DRAFT means
To understand draft & final sealed work, see this article.
Project statuses are mostly self-explanatory throughout ExpressPass & the online ordering system. If you have questions, send us a Live Chat.
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How do I check the project status of my project with Engineering Express?
Use our convenient Status Page to check your order.
If it’s an online order, you can also find the status & track your package on your Dashboard.
For ExpressPass users, log in to ExpressPass & look under ‘orders & quotes’.
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I have questions about a project we are working on
Site-specific custom projects you have hired Engineering Express to design are managed by our acclaimed ExpressPass Project management system.
If this is a new project, you can submit your request for quote from that page.
You can communicate directly with your project manager through your ExpressPass Dashboard. This notifies key staff, & logs the question & response for future reference. Direct access phone numbers for personal service are available there as well.
Project questions through this chat or general emails are discouraged and result in delays and mishandling of the communication chain.
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What is the process for submitting site specific projects to Engineering Express?
Please visit https://engineeringexpress.com/ExpressPass to apply for access to request a quote for a site-specific project.
- Click ‘apply for access’
- Fill the form
- In the description box, give us an idea of the project you are looking for
- After submitting a team leader will contact you back with the following steps (24-48 hours)
If there are any questions use the Live Chat feature or email us using the Contact form.
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Starter List In Submitting A Ground Mounted Sign For Evaluation
Signage – Ground Mounted Client Checklist
Engineering Express evaluates ground-mounted signs for structural stability. To do this, we require a drawing detailing the structural members and connections as detailed below in order to quote and execute work.
All of the information below must be provided or addressed in this drawing – an architectural detail, sketch or rendering may not be sufficient. Without the listed information below, additional coordination, fees, and time delays will accrue or we a rejection of request to quote the work if not satisfactorily provided.
Please submit a complete drawing set with details showing the information indicated below:
- Project:
- Project name, location, & address
- Project-specific conditions & limitations (if applicable)
- Sign:
- Provide dimensioned drawing of sign and all attached components
- Detail is to be clear about any open / porous sections
- Post:
- Show quantity & spacing of post(s)
- Show material & grade of post(s)
- Show size, shape, & thickness of post(s)
- Show structural connection of post (Embed in concrete or Baseplate mounted)
- Baseplate (if applicable):
- Show size, thickness, and material
- Show any proposed welds and additional gussets
- Show anchor spacing and location
- List proposed anchors (EX will check and confirm)
- Concrete Footing:
- Show size & shape of concrete footing or height from grade and host structure material
- Sign assumed centered on footing unless noted otherwise
- Show proposed reinforcement (if applicable)
- Show surrounding slab or soil conditions
- Provide detailed structural information about any special case supporting connections
- Show size & shape of concrete footing or height from grade and host structure material
- Other & Non-structural:
- Provide supporting soil conditions (if available)
- The electrical code required & county-specific information
- Any other information to be listed such as sign color, installation instructions, etc.
- This information is to be included for reference only
- Structural certification is only for sign support & connection to base.
- Certification of sign cabinet integrity to be provided separately
Also see our useful Sign Post-Connection-Footing Calculator available by membership. Contact Us to learn more.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EXPRESSPASS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EXPRESSPASS
What is ExpressPass?
ExpressPass is designed to help businesses get the certified designs you need to permit your project FAST.
It is our proprietary system that expedites your custom projects within our core departments & provides customized services for your recurring projects with transparent pricing and priority due dates.
ExpressPass is the fastest quote-to-delivery system that has ever been invented for building component design.
Click Here to watch the walkthrough video.
How do I apply for membership or log in to ExpressPass?
To apply for your FREE ExpressPass, you can do so in 3 easy steps:
ExpressPass Step 1: Once you complete your FREE application to ExpressPass and our team has approved your application, you’ll receive an email with your ExpressPass code.
Pro tip: Keep this code handy, as you’ll need it every time you want to enter your ExpressPass account.
ExpressPass Step 2: Insert your ExpressPass code in the section above.
ExpressPass Step 3: Now that you’re in your account, you can start or revise a project or view your orders and quotes.
Existing Clients:
If you are an existing client, click here to insert your code and login.
If you are having trouble logging in, click here & we will email your code.
Are fees that are generated from the order system guaranteed pricing?
While they are accurate in most cases, especially for repeat work by the same manufacturer or contractor, the fee is still largely dependent on it matching the request you submitted.
We do reserve the right to alter the order request for your approval should we feel the request doesn’t match the service and adjustments you selected.
Within ExpressPass, each service has multiple add-on adjustments to select. This allows you to add things to your quote request that you may need but is not listed in the general scope. For instance, a formal calculation booklet, expedited fees, drafting services, forensic work, etc.
Is the estimated completion date guaranteed?
It’s called ‘estimated’ for a reason. Many factors can adjust a completion date including such items as holidays not accounted for in the calculation, missing information we assumed was sent or due to us, emergencies that occur such as natural disasters where we assist in (nationally or locally), and sometimes it takes a bit longer for an engineer to review and approve the design.
The estimated completion date may also vary, depending on the terms we have set for your company. For instance, if a retainer is required, the completion date may alter if we do not receive the retainer payment upon signing. These terms are outlined in the quote.
We will do everything possible to complete on or before the estimated date but if we know we’re going to miss the date we’ll do everything possible to keep you informed- communication with our clients is something we pride ourselves on as a company.
How long does it take to receive my quote?
As soon as we receive your quote request, it is assigned to the Project Coordination Team to organize and have review.
Quotes are usually sent back for your review within 1-2 business days. However, there are some cases where we need to review multiple documents that were submitted in the request and depending on how long the review takes to come up with the best solution and pricing for you, the longest it may take longer.
What’s the difference between my ExpressPass code & my Engineering Express website login?
ExpressPass is built on our proprietary project management platform and accepts a single ExpressPass code.
Our website uses highly customized WordPress platform that follows an email-password format.
We can also store and you can access your ExpressPass access on your Engineering Express dashboard for seamless integration once logged into the Engineering Express website. If you want this connected and don’t see it there, click here to contact us to request it.
What are the core departments? And how do I request a quote if it does not fit into one of those categories?
Our core departments include:
Canopies, Pergolas & Sunrooms
Railings, Fences & Gates
Decks, Pools & Spas
Mechanical Equipment
Windows, Doors, Impact & Flood
Product Evaluations
Commercial Glazing
Signs, Poles & Solar Equipment Mounting
If your project does not fit into any of these, you can click here to send us a general email request.
Please keep in mind that general email requests will be responded to AFTER requests submitted through ExpressPass in our core departments.
Please use the ExpressPass system to expedite your needs.
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CHECKLIST FOR SCREENED ENCLOSURES, OPEN, & ENCLOSED PATIOS – SUNROOMS
CHECKLIST OF DESIGN ITEMS NEEDED FOR
SCREENED ENCLOSURES, OPEN, & ENCLOSED PATIOS, PERGOLAS & SUNROOMS
Engineering Express provides signed & sealed design plans for various types of screened enclosures, sunrooms, & open / enclosed patios attached to the main residence or freestanding.
Please review the starter list – checklist below & make sure you complete all necessary steps before submitting your sketch1.
Projects are submitted to us through our ExpressPass system for qualifying members by clicking here.
Before you order a custom patio enclosure project, be sure to check the pre-engineered Master Plans in our Online Plan Store which contain pre-certified, non-site-specific plans for permit for a variety of manufacturers and configurations.
SITE SPECIFIC PATIO ENCLOSURE JOB ORDERING CHECKLIST
Please submit a sketch1 showing all the information indicated below.
The following applies to Screened Enclosures, Sun Rooms, & Open / Enclosed Patios:
- If applicable, show roof type, dimensions (depth, skin thickness, etc.), & product approval number
- Show host building roof height & pitch
- Show overall addition dimensions (length & width)
- Show column/post spacing for all components
- Describe columns/posts & inserts if applicable, including dimensions, thickness, & material type
- If applicable, describe the host structure type (such as wood frame, CBS block, connecting to rafter tails, etc)
- Describe foundation type – size, reinforcing (or indicate if new)
- If applicable, show windows and doors, including locations, dimensions, & product approval numbers
- If applicable, describe the chair rail, including dimensions, thickness, material type, & height from ground
- If applicable, show the kick plate, including height (25% max kickplate height)
- Describe the carry beam & inserts (if applicable), including dimensions, thickness, & material type
Here’s a chart illustrating some of the many dimensions and components we need to design
an open patio / pergola / carport / louvered roof type structure.
1 Click here to view-download the sample sketch shown below or click the image
Visit EngineeringExpress.com/Quote for access to our system & to submit your project for engineering today.
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Starter List in Evaluating Your Building Component For Product Approvals & TER’s
Designers and manufacturers create building products based on how they think people will use them and conditions they will resist through their life cycle. To create a product that is safe and easy to use, one requirement is to determine the product’s performance in various weather conditions in conformance to applicable federal, state and local codes and referenced standards.
How can a structural engineer help you?
Let’s say you are a HVAC (heating-air conditioning) manufacturer and you have created a new product component that will be placed outdoors. As a manufacturer you wouldn’t know that there are several Building Codes and local municipalities rules that enforce the analysis of the cabinet to ensure the integrity under in this case storm conditions, For example: Florida Building Code 1620.6 (2017) – Wind resistance of Mechanical Equipment.
Engineering Express will analyze your cabinet and prepare a Technical Evaluation Report (TER). See more on TER’s by clicking here
CHECKLIST
Here’s a summary of checklist items that we will need to begin your product evaluation. Be advised this is an iterative process that we will be consulting with you throughout the evaluation of the product and may require samples, field visits, testing, and other detailed information on parts and materials to complete our design.
Checklist for Mechanical Unit Product Evaluation / Assembly of Unit
- Provide information regarding the constructed unit assembly and how the assembly was fabricated.
- Table of all sizes and weights for the comparable model number(s)
- Provide detailed drawings of the unit showing
- Dimensioned section profiles
- Panel arrangement
- Installation and spacing of anchorage
- Door or access panel locking arrangement
- Hardware
- Product markings and their location
- …And any other pertinent construction details
- STP and/or DWG files (all structural components in it, no mechanical parts needed) – For SolidWorks/CAD
- Properties of all the hardware used and enclosure
- Provide information regarding the final product
- Target Height or pressure to be used with the evaluation
- How would you like to set up the report: based on installed height or based on maximum wind load pressures?
- Provide information on the type of steel used in the cabinets, and strength (or let us know to use a conservative assumption, based on past experience).
- Sheet metal screws on the unit, size, and material information (as well as strength)
- Drawings with exploded views of the cabinets, and drawing of the panels (internal components do not need to be shown); please make sure that the drawings have the material and thickness of each part.
- If your units need some kind of remediation, are you open to the use of straps?
- Would you like to have different tiers for height or just worst condition? See the image below which shows different tiers for height. The worst condition would simply be “Rated for X psf”
You can see we have a lot of information to obtain from you. If you had a detailed Solid Works or compatible 3D file, we could learn a lot from that. please send one over for our review. When you look at the spreadsheet above, you see we need to know important items for calculations like screw & washer information, placement, type of screw, frame thicknesses, etc. If you had a detailed parts list or exploded views that we could decipher without too much difficulty, we could gather what we need, such as something like this:
We’ll likely mark up the PDF’s you send to ask specific questions, like this:
Different Products Have Different Checklists
At the end Engineering Express and the TER we will provide, wind capacity rating, anchorage method to different substrates for the maximum wind rating and all the models that were analyzed.
What evaluating methods do we use at Engineering Express?
Before the beginning of the project, we’ll make sure of walking you through the options available to evaluate your project. Here’s another example. Let’s say that this time you are a Generator manufacturer that produces enclosures, we’ll let you know the existing methods to evaluate your product allowed by the American Society of Civil Engineers Standard 7, we can either go testing in laboratories the product or rational analysis like performing FEA analysis, SolidWorks evaluation, MEPLA study, Excel calculations, or any combination thereof.. it all depends on desired output, level of detail required, timeframe for the evaluation, and level of variation of answers desired in the report.
HVAC UNIT INTEGRITY STARTER CHECKLIST
Wind Load Demand
- Determine target wind velocity and roof height
- Determine target terrain exposure C or D
- Determine target wind pressure for lateral and uplift
Panel Loading
- Determine panel tributary sizes
- Determine anchor quantity per panel
- For lid panels:
- Calculate typical anchors in tension or shear based on uplift
- Check if any anchors share both tension and shear requirements based on combined lateral + uplift loads
- Provide additional anchorage to panels where they are needed to resist loading
- Any cleats or “trapped” conditions are assumed OK
Frame/No Frame
- If cables are being used for the restraint system:
- The frame does not need to be checked for overturning or uplift
- Calculate that the required shear does not exceed the frame’s connection to the base
- For unit panels where a frame exists:
- Calculate typical anchors in tension based on lateral pressure
- Spot check connection of internal frame to the base pan based on uplift and shear from overturning
- For unit panels where a frame does not exist:
- Calculate typical anchors in tension based on lateral pressure
- Calculate shear required by anchors which resist panel overturning
- Check if any anchors share both tension and shear requirements based on combined wall pressure and overturning loads
Base Pan Design
- Determine how base pan is attached to the base rail of the unit
- Check shear due to overturning and uplift for the anchors that attach the base pan to the base rail
- Provide additional anchorage to base pan and panel connections they are where needed to resist loading
Restraint Design
- Determine restraint locations and connection method
- Design restraints for shear/tension in all anchors to the host structure
- Design of the host structure is not included
- Check ground conditions for 3000 psi concrete structure + any client requests
- Check rooftop conditions for 1/8” aluminum 6061-T6 or 1/8” steel A36 + any client requests
Results
- Determine at what wind pressure no remediation is needed and report this
- Report ground mounted and roof-mounted maximum allowable pressures, and any additional anchors to be added
What Types of Products does Engineering Express Evaluate?
Our earlier examples were about mechanical equipment manufacturers, but that only was (1) of the segments we work for, we currently evaluate products for:
- Fasteners
- Windows & doors
- Flood & Impact components
- Aluminum products
- Mechanical equipment – tanks, towers, poles
- Sunrooms, Patio Enclosures
- Decks, Roofing, Solar Equipment
- Signs, Billboards, Scoreboards
- Specialty components such as bank teller machines, propane gas tank holders, Public lockers, ride-sharing devices, and everything similar
What should you do next?
Request a quote with us and get started! Let Engineering Express structurally evaluate your product, click here to request a quote.
ADDITIONAL TOPICS IN OUR KNOWLEDGE BASE ON THIS SUBJECT:
Product Approvals Are Not Always Required – Here’s Why
When is a Miami Dade Product Approval Required?
How do I Quickly Get a Certified TER or Master Plan?
Can a Plan Reviewer or Building Inspector Deny The Use of a TER or Master Plan?
What do I do if a TER isn’t enough for a permit?
What is a TER and how is it used for permitting?
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CAD Drafting Guidelines for Engineering Express Plan Submissions
Engineering Express Drafting Shop Drawings – Tips & Tricks
At Engineering Express, we pride ourselves with the quality of our work. The key for a nicely presented set of engineered drawings is consistency. In this article we explore several guidelines we follow when creating structural engineered shop drawings for our client or modifying drawings provided to us. A shop drawing for glazing is provided for reference.
Title Blocks:
If you elect to use your own borders for our final work, it’s necessary that your borders conform to minimum standards. Contact Us to discuss and have us help you.
- Layers:
Take advantage of AutoCAD layers and always sort different elements of the drawing in their respective layers. This allows to freeze all dimensions if required or lock everything in the drawings except, for example, the detail call outs for ease of selection.
- Scale:
It is good practice to draw EVERYTHING in true scale in Model Space and use AutoCAD’s Viewports in Paper Space to give the drawings their proper scale.
Floor plans are usually drawn at 1/8” = 1’-0”*
Glazing elevations are usually drawn at 3/8” = 1’-0”*
Details are usually drawn at 6” = 1’-0”*
*These are guidelines based on drawings done in an 11” X 17” format, scale for a 24”x 36” format will be double the one used in 11”x17”. Scales can be altered depending on the true size of the elements drawn, therefore it’s very important to draw at true scale (1 unit = 1”).
- Dimensions:
Another reason it is crucial to draw everything in true scale is to have consistent dimension and text sizes throughout the drawing set. Dimension Styles should be adopted based on the scale used in Paper Space (follow the factoring table below):
- Notation:
Just like in Dimensions, text styles should match the Dimension styles to have consistency in the drawings.
It is good practice to place detail callouts “aligned” horizontally and vertically on the glazing elevations, this not only more visually pleasing and easier to read but also serves a purpose when it’s time to select the detail callouts for copy/ paste operations.
Detail callouts should have a number on top referring to the detail number and a number below the detail number referring to the page where the detail can be found (see image above).
- Blocks:
It is recommended when having repetitive elements in a drawing (eg. Title Block) to make it as a Block, it is extremely helpful and time saving when information such as revision dates need to be added to several pages in the drawing. Learn more about blocks by clicking here.
- Cover sheet:
Being the first line of information in a set of drawings, this sheet is packed with useful and vital information. It must show the Project name & address, Building Code used, General Notes, wind pressure criteria, Systems used (including product approval numbers, glass types used and system finish), scope of work and Index, in addition to detailed design information, company information, PE information and company certificate of authorization (as applicable).
- Elevations:
Opening elevations should always reflect the correct dimensions based on the system used, depending on the system used, the members of a glazing system may present different profiles, it is important to draft the elevations with the correct profiles to get accurate day light opening dimensions (D.L.O). Always dimension the elevation including Rough Opening (R.O.), Frame Size (F.S.), Day Light Opening (D.L.O.).
Also display under the elevation, it’s designated Mark (shown also in the floor plan to locate the opening), manufacturer (including product approval number), quantity of openings, and Design Wind Pressures.
- Floor plans:
Floor plans are useful to show the location of the openings in the scope of work within the building. It also helps to determine Building End Zones for wind pressure calculations. The openings in the floor plan should be clearly identified with a hexagon call out and usually a letter.
- Details:
Glazing details are usually drawn in scale 6”=1’-0” (when using an 11”x 17” format). These details must include dimensions showing R.O., F.S., D.L.O., (rough opening, frame size (after shim space), daylight opening (the part that’s completely see-through) – see image) profile size, system depth, shim space and glass bite. Also must include substrates based on architectural drawings and proper anchorage based on respective product approvals and exterior / Interior sides must be clearly identified.
Remember, this is all PRE-ENGINEERING and subject to engineer review and approval by the firm. Engineering notes would then need to be added, calculations made, consultation with the client, and the plans must be certified by a licensed professional engineer prior to use of any kind. Contact us to discuss your drafting and engineering needs or submit a quote request through our innovative order system for the department of your need..
Article by lead drafter Joe Maldonado
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Typical Information Needed For Engineering Design of a Patio-Pergola Roof
Here’s a chart illustrating some of the many dimensions and components needed to design a site specific open patio / pergola / carport / louvered roof type structure.
It’s best if you start with an existing Master Plan from one of our manufacturer partners. Mark those up & create your sketches using the information from the sample plans.
In addition to these items, we would need information such as material types, extrusion dimensions, connections, foundation, and much more. Visit EngineeringExpress.com/Quote to apply for an ExpressPass to submit your project for engineering today.
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General / Other Frequently Asked Questions 18
What is a delagate engineer and what are their responsibilties
What is a Delegate Engineer? (Florida descriptions, but other states follow the same or similar requirements)
A delegate engineer is a Professional Engineer (PE) who undertakes a specialty service and provides services or creative work regarding a portion of the engineering project.
The delegated engineer is the engineer for that portion of the engineering project. They are responsible for signing and sealing all of their delegated tasks, such as drawings and calculations, complying with all requests from the Engineer of Record (EoR), communicating effectively with the EoR and other involved personnel on a timely basis to ensure the satisfactory design of all elements.
Is there a difference between Delegate Engineers in different states?
While there may be slight variations in specific requirements or regulations between states, a delegate engineer’s core duties and qualifications are likely to remain similar regardless of location.
These differences are usually related to licensing requirements and industry practices based on the respective state.
What is an EoR and what is their role?
The Engineer of Record is a professional engineer who is officially responsible for the design, analysis, or evaluation of a particular engineering project as a whole (such as the primary structure).
The EoR typically oversees the delegated engineering aspects of a project, ensuring that they meet applicable codes, standards, and specifications.
These include design oversight, code compliance per location, quality assurance, coordination, documentation, permitting approval, and construction support. Sometimes Architects of Record serve in this capacity.
Relationship between the EoR and the Delegate Engineer:
The EoR has no universal definition, however they have similar attributes.
An EoR is defined as “A licensed professional engineer who is in responsible charge for the preparation, signing, dating, sealing and issuing of any engineering documents for any engineering service or creative work.”
If the EoR wants something installed, such as a canopy on a building, he could hire or work with a delegate engineer, who could do the engineering solely for the desired canopy.
The delegate engineer would then create and seal the plans and calculations for the canopy.
The EoR would be responsible for ensuring that the building has the structural capacity to support the canopy.
In this case, the delegate engineer would only be liable for the canopy and its connection to the building, and the EoR would be responsible for the building’s ability to support the canopy and the integrity of the substrate the canopy is connecting to.
What is the benefit of hiring a Delegate Engineer?
The benefit of hiring a Delegate Engineer is the shared mastery of the structure.
The more expert, experienced minds attached to a project, the more likely that structure is to be properly designed, considering all aspects and history of such work.
By dispersing tasks among various professional engineers with different niches, a deeper understanding of the project can be achieved.
Some engineers, such as the EoR, may be better at understanding the dynamics of the building, while others, such as the delegate engineer, may be specialists in windows or canopies.
It is imperative that we collectively use our experience as engineers to design and innovate to the best of our abilities.
References & Resources
Florida Delegate Engineer Scope
Delegate Engineer vs Structural Engineer:
FBPE Newsletter
https://fbpe.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/october2013newsletter.pdf
Engineer of Record Article
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Whats the difference between the Miami Dade NOA Quality Assurance Date and the Building Code Expiration Date?
Learn How To Quickly Spot And Use QA Expiration & Code Dates On a Miami Dade NOA
Why This Is So Important
Miami Dade Lists an ‘Expiration Date’ on the cover page of their Miami Dade NOA’s, which is misunderstood and frequently misused.
Many times the product being used is NOT Code compliant, even though the NOA hasn’t ‘Expired’ yet.
What The Expiration Date Is And Why It’s Used
A requirement of Miami-Dade is a periodic quality assurance review of the manufacturing facility in order to obtain a Miami-Dade NOA certification.
That expiration date is the date the Quality Assurance contract expires with the manufacturer.
That date is DIFFERENT than the date of the applicable building code. Permits using the Miami Dade NOA documentation must align with the Code Expiration Date, NOT the quality assurance date.
So Why Would The QA Expiration Date Matter?
When a permit is applied for, the building code in effect is not always the code at the date of the permit application.
An open building permit in 2022 for example may have a window permit in 2024 when a new code is in effect (the 2023 FBC vs 2020 FBC).
In this case, both the code date and QA expiration date are valid and the document may be used.
If for example a 2020FBC permit was applied for on February 1, 2025, the document shown here would NOT be approved as the QA date expired.
Miami Dade Cover Page Example. Click image to view this listing & source document
Where Do I Find The Building Code In The Miami Dade NOA?
Always check the general notes of the performance evaluation plans of the applicable Miami-Dade NOA to find the applicable code references.
In this case, this particular listing is approved to the 2017 and 2020 Florida Building Code but NOT the 2023 FBC.
So if a permit was pulled February 1, 2024, the QA date shows it’s current but the product would NOT BE APPROVED since it is out of current building codes.
Always check for code compliance when using any performance evaluation as the codes change. the 2023 FBC for example now uses ASCE 7-22. The prior code version used ASCE 7-16. You can also see that in the highlighted box shown.
Miami Dade NOA Plan Page Example. Click image to view this listing & source document
Possible Solutions For Using An Outdated Miami-Dade NOA
Many times the applicant may be developing the updated plan or the plan may still be in review with Miami-Dade.
We suggest contacting the manufacturer to see if there is an updated plan available. It may possibly be updated as a Florida Product Approval, but not Miami Dade.
There’s also a Florida Local Product Approval Method that can allow any firm to provide a site-specific, one-time evaluation of an expired product for applicability to a specific project. Ref FS 553.8425) – read more.
Click Here to discuss that need with Engineering Express.
Quickly Search All Miami Dade NOA’s & Florida Product Approvals
Find the updated plan or another product that meets the building codes you need fast
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How do I submit my completed drawings to the city?
Engineering Express only provides engineer-sealed structural drawings for your project. Submitting these drawings to the city is the responsibility of the permitting contractor.
We encourage the use of qualified permit application companies to assist if you are new to the process. These companies are independent of this firm. Information provided via the below link is to assist you in your search for permit runners, generally in the South Florida area.
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What Services Do We Offer And Don’t Offer?
Engineering Express is a national engineering firm that only provides structural design services for building components for commercial & residential projects.
Examples of services we offer include glazing design, sunrooms, pergolas, fence and rail, mechanical equipment tie-downs and stands/curbs for wind, and product evaluations for government approval see more.
We do NOT design buildings, additions or renovations, nor do we design any non-structural work such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC for heat or flow calculations.
Since we are a national firm specializing in design, we do not do inspections.
Who We Design For
Our model is to work closely with manufacturers to systemize their building component product to rapidly and efficiently produce site-specific building component designs across the US attached to and around residential & commercial buildings. You can see examples of some of our featured Brand Partners by clicking on our Brands Page.
If you are a manufacturer with a building component product that needs innovative national engineering design, contact us to discuss your needs or click here to learn more.
Contractors who need site-specific work from engineering we’ve designed for one of our manufacturers can either submit a quote request or find a pre-engineered plan in our Online Plan Store to use with their local design professional or us to create a site-specific application.
Who We Don’t Design For
We don’t take projects directly from contractors for one-time work in order to provide exemplary services for the manufacturers and their contractors we partner with.
We also don’t design directly for homeowners. If you are a homeowner, please work with an approved contractor for a manufacturer’s product we engineer. We don’t take any site-specific work for any type of project with a homeowner.
What homeowners can do: Homeowners are welcome to browse and purchase a pre-engineered plan from our Online Plan Store but with a warning: We do not offer refunds, modifications, or assistance in any way. Use them with your local design professional to create what you need without our involvement. Examples of when this is helpful is if you engage with one of our manufacturers which we have an online plan for and you need the sealed plan for your contractor and don’t involve us.
If you have questions
Don’t call us! We’re much more efficient using our Online Chat where we have in-house staff standing by to assist.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to be The Fastest Engineering On The Planet for our valued clients.
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Pros and Cons of Obtaining a Florida Statewide Approval Vs A Miami Dade Approval and how a TER fits in
Two common means of product evaluations in Florida are Florida Statewide Approvals (FSA’s) and Miami-Dade Notices of Acceptance (NOA’s). To help determine whether these evaluations would be right for you, we’ve compiled a list of pros & cons for each type of evaluation.
(opinions as interpreted by this firm)
Pros for a Florida Statewide Approval (FSA)
- No Per-Sealed Copy Fees: Beyond the up-front costs of applying and obtaining approval for the FSA, you can download certifications for free right from the State of Florida Product Approval website. Download as many certifications as-needed for free (good for high-volume products such as mechanical equipment). Since Statewide approvals are optional, an alternative is to have individual plans sealed on a per job basis (also known as a Local Product Approval for products ‘inside the rule’ and commonly known as Technical Evaluation Reports for products outside the rule. Click here for more information).
- Convenient: Once the FSA is approved, certifications may be easily accessed and downloaded from the Florida Approval website. Certifications may not even be required to provide to a permit official – by providing the FSA approval number, the official may view and obtain the sealed product evaluation report independently via the Florida website: https://floridabuilding.org/pr/pr_default.aspx
- Marketing: Some manufacturers/distributors may prefer to have an FSA for marketing purposes. You can say you have a “Florida state-wide approval” which is certified and registered with the State of Florida.
- Easier Acceptance: A building department cannot deny signed and sealed code-compliant Technical Evaluation Reports (TER’s) outright if the site-specific installation is within bounds of the signed TER and outside the rule of requiring a FSA. That being said, an FSA tends to meet less resistance, in that they are considered peer-reviewed to some extent.FSA’s are reviewed by the Florida Product Approval commission and have additional requirements, such as Quality Assurance requirements and a third-party validator reviewing the FSA application. These aspects, combined with the approval residing with the State of Florida, lends an FSA additional credibility.
TER’s may be questioned for further documentation, calculations, or clarifications by a building department official, which can slow down the permit process (again, this is a rare occurrence, as TER’s from Engineering Express have an excellent track record of acceptance). On rare occasions, building department officials deny TERs due to misconceptions of what they are or what is required. In these cases, Engineering Express works with the reviewer to address the official’s concerns.
Cons for an FSA
- Higher up-front costs: There is a $500+ fee to apply for an approval with the State of Florida, per approval. Engineering Express also charges fees to prepare and submit each FSA submittal package. Lastly, there are fees external from Engineering Express for meeting certain prerequisites of an FSA, such as establishing a QA contract and hiring a validator.
- Greater regulation: FSA’s require a yearly-renewed Quality Assurance contract, (see sample QA requirements at this link): https://www.engineeringexpress.com/wiki/florida-statewide-approvals-fsa-quality-assurance-and-validator-requirements/
- Time-consuming: The FSA submittal process is more time-consuming for achieving certification. Once the submittal package is prepared and submitted, there is a 2-3 month waiting period for the State of Florida to review the application and formally decide whether the submittal package is approved or rejected with comments.
- Harder to update: Updating an existing approval is also a more-involved process. Updating an approval requires a revision application to the State of Florida. If model numbers are being added to a mechanical equipment FSA for example, that requires a complete re-submission and approval, time-consuming and costly.
- The State of Florida charges a $500+ fee per revision application.
- Engineers charge fees for performing the updates/revisions and completing the revision application.
- You would need to hire a validator to validate the application, who charges their own fees separately.
- The revision application takes about 2-3 months to become fully approved and processed on the Florida website. (The updates will be visible on the website once the application is submitted, but the approval status will read “Applied For” or “Pending” until the status reads “Approved”.)
- FSA’s need to be updated each code change cycle, redoing this entire process and charging fees again (every 3+- years).
- Florida-Only Certification: An FSA will bear the certifying engineer’s Florida seal. As such, the certification is formally valid for use only in Florida. For out-of-state applications, the other state may request the engineering document have a certifying engineer’s seal from their particular state. With TER’s, Engineering Express can review codes per state and certify the report for use in over 40 states to which we are licensed and operate in.
Pros for a Miami Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA)
The pros of an NOA are similar to the pros of an FSA:
- No Per-Copy Fees: Beyond the up-front costs of applying and obtaining approval for the NOA, you can download certifications for free right from Miami-Dade Product Control website. Download as many certifications as-needed for free (good for high-volume products).
- Convenient: Once the NOA is approved, certifications may be easily accessed and downloaded from the Miami-Dade Product Control website. Certifications may not even be required to provide to a permit official – by providing the NOA number, the official may view and obtain the sealed product evaluation document independently via the Miami-Dade Product Control website: http://www.miamidade.gov/building/pc-search_app.asp
- Marketing: Some manufacturers/distributors may prefer to have an NOA for marketing purposes. A common slogan seen in product advertising in South Florida is “Miami-Dade County Approved”. In addition, one of the requirements of an NOA is: “Each unit shall bear a permanent label with the manufacturer’s name or logo, city, state, model/series, and following statement: “Miami-Dade County Product Control Approved”, unless otherwise noted”. This may be seen as a desirable accolade, in comparison to competitors’ products.
- Easier Acceptance: A product with an NOA tends to meet less resistance as it has been reviewed and approved by the Miami-Dade County Product Control Department.
NOA’s are reviewed by the Miami-Dade County Product Control Department and have additional requirements, including:
- Product labeling (as described above)
- Substantiating calculations or physical testing to qualify unit performance
- Peer review by a Miami-Dade Product Control Professional Engineer (P.E.)
- Annual quality assurance audits, performed by and at the discretion of Miami-Dade Product Control.
- Code change renewal fees for submission (Plus engineer fees to revise) every 3+- years.
- Quality Assurance Expiration and renewal fees, which differ from the code change date.
These aspects, combined with the approval residing with Miami-Dade County, lend an NOA additional credibility.
TER’s created by Engineering Express for products ‘outside the rule’ may be questioned for further documentation, calculations, or clarifications by a building department official, which can slow down the permit process (again, this is a rare occurrence, as our TER’s have an excellent track record of acceptance). On rare occasions, building department officials deny TERs due to misconceptions of what they are or what is required. In these cases, Engineering Express works with the reviewer to address the official’s concerns.
Cons for an NOA
- Higher up-front costs: There is a $4,300+ fee from Miami-Dade to apply for a new NOA, per NOA (as of 8/2022). the certifying engineering firm also charges fees to prepare and submit each NOA submittal package.
- Greater regulation: All NOA’s are required to meet the product labeling specifications and have a quality assurance program established with Miami-Dade Product Control. NOA’s also have additional requirements depending on the product / application. For example, products classified as “Rooftop Mechanical Equipment (Exhaust Fans & Ventilators)” are required to have a combination of calculations and physical testing in order to obtain an NOA approval. See list of requirements by product here: http://www.miamidade.gov/building/control-forms.asp#7
- Time-consuming: The NOA submittal process is more time-consuming for achieving certification. Once the submittal package is prepared and submitted, there may be up to a 3-6 month period for Miami-Dade Product Control to review the application and formally grant approval for the NOA. In our experience, it is not uncommon for Miami-Dade to issue comments that need to be addressed prior to approval, which can lead to a longer timeframe within the aforementioned 3-6 month estimate. We suggest preparing for an 8-12 month time from start to finish.
- Harder to update: Updating an existing NOA is also a more-involved process. Updating an NOA requires a revision application to Miami-Dade:
- Miami-Dade charges a $1,612.50 fee per revision application (as of 8/2022).
- The certifying engineer charges fees for performing the revisions to the engineering document and submitting the application to Miami-Dade.
Engineering Express’s fee may vary based on the amount of supporting calculations/documentation required, whether product requires re-testing, etc. - The revision application may take 1-3+ months to become fully approved and processed on the Miami-Dade website and additional concerns may be brought up at the time of review to comply with the latest standards of care.
- Faster Expiration of NOA: An NOA effectively has two expiration dates, each with its own schedule of fees to renew:
- The expiration of the NOA approval itself as determined by Miami-Dade (5 years from the date of Miami-Dade’s approval). This differs from the code cycle expiration date.
- The expiration date of the Florida Building Code (FBC) being referenced. A new edition of the FBC takes effect about every 3 years, and building department officials will not accept an approval referencing an obsolete edition of the FBC once the new FBC takes effect.
- Additional Fees: There may be additional fees that are not reflected in the above-mentioned services. For example, it is often recommend to file an application with Miami-Dade Product Control to review any test protocols to ensure Miami-Dade agrees with and approves of the proposed physical testing. Preparing said application would be covered in our NOA submittal fees, but Miami-Dade would charge an hourly rate to review and issue a verdict on said application.
- Florida-Only Certification: An NOA will bear the certifying engineer’s Florida seal. As such, the certification is formally only valid for use in Florida. For out-of-state applications, the other state may request the engineering document have a certifying engineer’s seal from their particular state. With TER’s, Engineering Express can accommodate certifying these in over 40 states in the US.
Takeaways: Our Suggestions on How to Best Utilize FSA’s, NOA’s & TER’s
As a starting point, a Technical Evaluation Report (TER) provided by Engineering Express will meet your certification needs for most mechanical equipment products and other products ‘outside the rule‘. However, for reasons covered in the “Pros” sections above, some of the benefits provided by an FSA or NOA may make these types of product evaluations an appealing option.
If an FSA or NOA is desired, an FSA is the more common election made by product manufacturers in our experience. This is because an FSA can offer much of the same benefits as an NOA, but at a lower cost. As such, we will first examine FSA’s.
FSA’s
Our suggestion on how to best utilize an FSA, to maximize its benefits and compensate for its drawbacks, is to utilize both the TER from Engineering Express and the FSA through the State of Florida.
In preparing an FSA, a TER from Engineering Express is prepared first as the base product evaluation document. Finished TER’s are valid for use immediately and may be used to file for building permits while the FSA is processing. Once the FSA becomes formally approved, the FSA can take over for providing certification in Florida.
NOA’s
An NOA is a more rigorous and involved method of product evaluation relative to an FSA.
The most common reason for obtaining an NOA is that an NOA is required for your product in order to sell/install your product in Miami-Dade County. This is the case for many building products, such as a window, door, or hurricane shutter. However, an NOA is not required for most mechanical equipment. Some building officials may ask if you have an NOA number for your product, but for most mechanical equipment installations, it is not a requirement to have an NOA. Our Technical Evaluation Report will suffice in most instances.
Besides this reason, an NOA also has its own merits (see related “Pros of an NOA” section herein). Should you elect to proceed with obtaining an NOA, we also suggest utilizing a TER from Engineering Express in tandem with the NOA.
For both FSA’s and NOA’s, the engineering seal will be for Florida only. For out-of-state applications, a TER can extend the certification coverage where the other product evaluation types fall short. With TER’s, they can be ordered in signed in over 40 states to which we are licensed. TER’s are available to order through our online Plan Store with the appropriate state’s engineering seal.
For updates and revisions, a TER can be updated quickly and economically for immediate use. The updates may also be propagated to the FSA or NOA, where the TER can serve as a short-term solution while the revision application is processing.
This approach utilizes the nimbleness and versatility of the TER to cover for the more time-consuming and rigid aspects of the FSA or NOA. For more information on TER’s, FSA’s, and NOA’s, please visit our Knowledge Base: https://www.engineeringexpress.com/wiki-tags/mechanical/
All information provided/attached herein is for informational purposes only. This firm will not be liable for any errors, omissions, delays, losses, injuries, or damages arising from any information provided herein. No information in this page is to be construed as formal, official, or binding without a certified design and approval by a licensed Professional Engineer of the firm and represents opinions only subject to the reader’s independent verification.
INFORMATION IS NOT BINDING AND SHALL BE INDEPENDENTLY VERIFIED PRIOR TO USE. ENGINEERING EXPRESS SHALL NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY INFORMATION USED HEREIN. PLEASE CONTACT US AT [email protected] , CLICK HERE TO SEND A MESSAGE, CLICK HERE TO LIVE CHAT, OR CALL US AT 954-354-0660 TO DISCUSS YOUR PRODUCT EVALUATION NEEDS.
Article written by staff employee Eric Reit, EI and edited by Frank Bennardo, PE August, 2022
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Performance Requirements Typically Requested On Project Specifications
For shop drawings requested for structural permit by this office, the following are typical specifications requested. Engineering Express routinely complies with these when providing certified plans for permit:
- Delegated Design: Design , including comprehensive engineering analysis by a qualified professional engineer, using performance requirements & design criteria indicated.
- Structural Performance: shall withstand the effects of gravity loads & the following loads & stresses within limits and under conditions indicated according to SEI/ASCE 7 (latest edition).
- Seismic Loads (provided by the AOR or EOR per plans or to be calculated by the delegate engineer)
- Wind Loads (provided by the AOR or EOR per plans or to be calculated by the delegate engineer)
- Delegated Design Submittal: For to comply with performance requirements & design criteria, including analysis data signed and sealed by the qualified professional engineer responsible for their preparation.
- Design Calculations: Calculate requirements for seismic restraints
- Product Test Reports: Based on evaluation of comprehensive test performed by a qualified testing agency, for as applicable. A rational analysis may also be permitted if deemed to comply with the applicable building code.
- For glazing products within the windborne debris region:
- Provide documentation that the passes large missile impact & cyclic pressure tests per ASTM E 1886 / ASTM E 1996 according to the applicable codes & limiting requirements.
Engineering Express regularly provides this information in product evaluations and corresponding site-specific design plans for structural shop drawings for permit throughout the US.
Click here to request a quote for this work for your building component product.
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I see values for F1 and F2 on Evaluation Reports. What are they?
F1 and F2 are the limiting performance capacities of the forces in the parallel and perpendicular directions of a building component. Which one is which direction appears in a guide in each TER or corresponding test reports.
There’s also an interaction between the 2 forces that cannot be exceeded which is also explained on the reports. it’s either a linear or parabolic interaction that requires the unity of both forces to be less than 1.0. This information is to be reviewed with and by a design professional for each project.
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The building department is asking for design wind speed – risk category – exposure – address on my master plan – TER What do I tell them?
In the case of Master Plans and Technical Evaluation Reports, product evaluations, master plans, and technical evaluation reports generally list the limiting pressure forces that the product (building component) can withstand (such as these – click here).
Items such as wind speed, risk category, wind exposure are connected to the site-specific condition the building component is being installed to (per ASCE 7 & the IBC/FBC). We rate the product to a limiting force, a design professional uses these variables at a site-specific location to determine whether the building component is suitable for use in that situation.
There can be many combinations of wind speed, exposure, roof height, terrain, and other factors that determine what the design pressure is. It’s not possible for an evaluation report to list every condition and someone needs to ensure the component is good enough for the intended use.
Typically a site-specific letter by us, an architect working on a project, or another design professional is needed to connect the maximum forces on our report with the area it’s being installed. We can provide a separate quote if you cannot get someone else on the project to provide it for you. Click here to request a quote or Chat With Us.
Click here to read more about master plans and how they are used for site-specific locations.
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What is the current Florida Building Code
Effective January 1, 2021, the current Florida code is the 2020 Florida Building Code (7th Edition). It’s scheduled to be in service for roughly (3) years from that date.
Check here for any updates & changes: https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes/florida
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What are your business hours / time that you are open and what is your location?
Engineering Express is open for business from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Time Monday through Friday. We do answer calls & chats before/after hours if we’re available.
Visiting Engineering Express is by appointment only and readily available virtually. Find our numerous offices by clicking here.
Local pickups for any plans are discontinued & are delivered via UPS next day ground. Free & VIP shipping options are available for larger orders.
Contact or chat with us if you have questions or would like to set up a visit to one of our locations.
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How can I get a copy of your W-9?
Please contact our office to assist you with a current copy or use the Live Chat.
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I need an inspection done. Can you help?
Due to our exposive national demand & specialized design expertise, Engineering Express no longer performs inspections. Visit EngineeringExpress.com/directory/ for a list of S. Florida engineering firms that could help you with your request or search online for a local engineer near you.
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I received a comment from the city / building department / plan reviewer on an online plan. What do I do?
FIRST: Get the permit # & plan reviewer’s contact information.
THEN: Get the comments IN WRITING.
LAST: Provide us with our order # (for online orders) or Project # (for site-specific ExpressPass orders).
Forward that information to [email protected]. We are not going to be able to help you without ALL the above information.
Note: comments that request additional work that was not part of our project scope may be subject to additional fees which will be discussed with you before the additional work begins.
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I need a wind calculation for a roof. Can Engineering Express help with that?
As of mid-20201 Engineering Express is taking a break from roof designs to focus more on other building components. Visit EngineeringExpress.com/directory/ for a list of S. Florida engineering firms that could help you with your request.
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Can you help me find Existing Florida Product approval, Miami Dade NOA, or ICC-ES information and plans?
If you need to find a Florida Approval, Miami Dade NOA, ICC ES, Intertek, IAPMO, or Dr. J’s Engineering number please visit EngineeringPlans.com
EngineeringPlans.com continuously synchronizes data with these agencies and indexes them for a better search and view experience.
Single-click over to the source agency site, download documents, ask and discuss, and more.
All free to use, no login required.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EXPRESSPASS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EXPRESSPASS
What is ExpressPass?
ExpressPass is designed to help businesses get the certified designs you need to permit your project FAST.
It is our proprietary system that expedites your custom projects within our core departments & provides customized services for your recurring projects with transparent pricing and priority due dates.
ExpressPass is the fastest quote-to-delivery system that has ever been invented for building component design.
Click Here to watch the walkthrough video.
How do I apply for membership or log in to ExpressPass?
To apply for your FREE ExpressPass, you can do so in 3 easy steps:
ExpressPass Step 1: Once you complete your FREE application to ExpressPass and our team has approved your application, you’ll receive an email with your ExpressPass code.
Pro tip: Keep this code handy, as you’ll need it every time you want to enter your ExpressPass account.
ExpressPass Step 2: Insert your ExpressPass code in the section above.
ExpressPass Step 3: Now that you’re in your account, you can start or revise a project or view your orders and quotes.
Existing Clients:
If you are an existing client, click here to insert your code and login.
If you are having trouble logging in, click here & we will email your code.
Are fees that are generated from the order system guaranteed pricing?
While they are accurate in most cases, especially for repeat work by the same manufacturer or contractor, the fee is still largely dependent on it matching the request you submitted.
We do reserve the right to alter the order request for your approval should we feel the request doesn’t match the service and adjustments you selected.
Within ExpressPass, each service has multiple add-on adjustments to select. This allows you to add things to your quote request that you may need but is not listed in the general scope. For instance, a formal calculation booklet, expedited fees, drafting services, forensic work, etc.
Is the estimated completion date guaranteed?
It’s called ‘estimated’ for a reason. Many factors can adjust a completion date including such items as holidays not accounted for in the calculation, missing information we assumed was sent or due to us, emergencies that occur such as natural disasters where we assist in (nationally or locally), and sometimes it takes a bit longer for an engineer to review and approve the design.
The estimated completion date may also vary, depending on the terms we have set for your company. For instance, if a retainer is required, the completion date may alter if we do not receive the retainer payment upon signing. These terms are outlined in the quote.
We will do everything possible to complete on or before the estimated date but if we know we’re going to miss the date we’ll do everything possible to keep you informed- communication with our clients is something we pride ourselves on as a company.
How long does it take to receive my quote?
As soon as we receive your quote request, it is assigned to the Project Coordination Team to organize and have review.
Quotes are usually sent back for your review within 1-2 business days. However, there are some cases where we need to review multiple documents that were submitted in the request and depending on how long the review takes to come up with the best solution and pricing for you, the longest it may take longer.
What’s the difference between my ExpressPass code & my Engineering Express website login?
ExpressPass is built on our proprietary project management platform and accepts a single ExpressPass code.
Our website uses highly customized WordPress platform that follows an email-password format.
We can also store and you can access your ExpressPass access on your Engineering Express dashboard for seamless integration once logged into the Engineering Express website. If you want this connected and don’t see it there, click here to contact us to request it.
What are the core departments? And how do I request a quote if it does not fit into one of those categories?
Our core departments include:
Canopies, Pergolas & Sunrooms
Railings, Fences & Gates
Decks, Pools & Spas
Mechanical Equipment
Windows, Doors, Impact & Flood
Product Evaluations
Commercial Glazing
Signs, Poles & Solar Equipment Mounting
If your project does not fit into any of these, you can click here to send us a general email request.
Please keep in mind that general email requests will be responded to AFTER requests submitted through ExpressPass in our core departments.
Please use the ExpressPass system to expedite your needs.
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Glossary of Engineering Terms
Glossary of Building Component Engineering Terms & Abbreviations
These terms are published by Engineering Express to coincide with help menus for our online tools & published articles and as they relate to the Building Component Design industry.
See also our FLOOD ENGINEERING GLOSSARY for more terms related to flood engineering.
See Also SUNROOM TERMINOLOGY for a list of Sunroom terms compliments of the National Sunroom Association
Looking for our list of abbreviations?
Contact Us for any questions, clarifications, or suggestions you have regarding these items.
Glossary
| LABEL | DEFINITION |
| ADDITION ROOF TYPE | For sunroom enclosures, roof types can be monoslope for studio, shed, or other single slope style roofs or gable, also known as A-Frame. Roof type & slope affects the conversion from wind speed to pressure Learn More. |
| ATTACHED TO HOST | For our column calculators, Yes assumes pinned at top & bottom so k=1.0 and simply supported for lateral bending moment on post itself No assumes fixed at base and pinned at top (such as for freestanding aluminum structures, k=2.0 for buckling & cantilever moment for lateral on post itself) |
| AHJ | AHJ – Authority Having Jurisdiction. The entity with the authority to determine / enforce building code requirements. Typically the building department you submit permits to. |
| ASCE | American Society of Civil Engineers. A professional body that provides much of the structural engineering provisions present in the Florida and International Building Codes. Visit asce.org for more. |
| ASD (PRESSURES) | Allowable Stress Design – where the capacity of the member in question is reduced (factored down) to an allowable factored limit as opposed to ultimate pressures where the load is factored up and compared to actual capacities. |
| BEAM ALLOWABLE SPAN | Clear Beam Span of the panel or member in question between two supports. |
| BENDING STRESS | The total bending stress from a transverse force in the extreme fibers of the member in question. |
| BUILDING ENVELOPE | Simply defined, it’s the separation between the interior & exterior of a building/habitable space or air-conditioned vs. non-air-conditioned space. The ‘shell’ of a building. The building envelope is subject to ‘internal pressurization’, affecting building components that comprise the building shell. |
| CLASSIFICATION | Screened for removable acrylic sliders, open if 3 or more sides are open, solid for glass or panels. |
| CLEAR SPAN | The clear distance between supports of a member in question. |
| CLEARANCE HEIGHT | Used in our mechanical rooftop equipment calculator, typically defined by this firm as the support structure clear height, or height from grade/roof level to the bottom of the unit in question. Seek confirmation from the associated unit diagram before using this definition. |
| CODE YEAR | Select ASCE 7-16 in our online calculators only for the 2020 Florida Building Code or 2018 International Building Code (IBC). ASCE 7-10 corresponds to ASCE 7-10 and codes before IBC 2018. |
| COLUMN ALLOWABLE HEIGHT | The allowable clear span of a post from the slab to beam or knee brace above. If the resulting allowable height in a result is less than the allowable ceiling height, the result shall include knee walls or other supporting structures. |
| COLUMN SPACING | For the determination of column loads, the column spacing is the average on-center spacing between columns, in decimals for our online tools (0.5= 6”). For the determination of carry beams between columns, spacing is the clear span between two columns. Typically column spacing is the on-center spacing of columns unless otherwise defined. |
| COMPRESSIVE STRESS | The stress from a longitudinal force acting in compression on a member axially, typically for a column. |
| COMBINED STRESS UTILIZATION | See Utilization |
| COMPONENTS & CLADDING | The pieces and parts of a building or other structure that comprise the building envelope. Typical component & cladding items include windows, doors, door handles & hinges, exterior fascades, etc. ASCE-7 has specific requirements for the design of building components & components of other structures. |
| CRITICALLY WELDED | When aluminum is heated during welding, the alloys realign and weaken the member, typically within 2 inches of any heated surface. For our calculators, if a beam or column is welded at any critical point within 2 inches of the maximum moment, select ‘yes’ which loads an alternately calculated allowable stress for the aluminum selected. Click here for more on the topic. |
| DEAD LOAD (D) | Dead load is the actual self-weight of an unloaded roof, floor, or similar surface. Typically the load of sunroom roof panels, or roof trusses + underlayment + shingles or tiles, or for decks the weight of wood + connectors. |
| DEFLECTION | The bending limit of a member – see chapter 16 of the building code, typically L/180 for glass, L/60 for screen, L/240 for plaster. Click here for more. Deflection is typically expressed as L/# where L = the Clear Span of the member in question. For example, a member with a 10’ long clear span that has an allowable deflection limit of L/60 would be allowed to deflect 10/60= 0.1667’ or 2”. |
| EFFECTIVE WIND AREA | Effective wind area is the area of the building surface used to determine (GCp). This area does not necessarily correspond to the area of the building surface contributing to the force being considered. There’s an H*H/3 rule & structural break understanding to better understand. Click here to read more. |
| ELEVATION ABOVE SEA LEVEL (ELEVATION FACTOR, Ke) | A variable used in wind load calculations that allows for reductions in the calculated wind load as site elevation above sea level increases. For Every 1,000 ft above sea level, atmospheric pressure and corresponding wind pressure is decreased per ASCE 7-16 (not per ASCE 7-10). In our online tools, select 0ft above sea level if unsure or at sea level (returns 1.0 factor). |
| EXPOSURE CATEGORY | The ASCE Exposure Category reflects the characteristics of ground surface irregularities at a site in which the building or structure is to be constructed. The rougher the surface, the lower the multiplier that converts wind velocity to pressure. Learn More |
| ENCLOSURE TYPE | The type of installation being installed – typically open or enclosed (screened). Click here for more. |
| FBC | Florida Building Code. The set of rules and regulations that constructed buildings and other structures must abide by in the State of Florida. To view the FBC, click here: https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes/florida |
| FENESTRATION | Openings within a building envelope or surface such as for windows, doors, etc. These openings require design considerations typically referred to as components & cladding design in ASCE-7. |
| HIGH-VELOCITY HURRICANE ZONE (HVHZ) | A special wind region in Florida consisting of only Broward & Miami-Dade counties. The Florida Building Code may specify different conditions and requirements for the HVHZ than for what applies to the rest of Florida depending on the structure/application. For more information click here. |
| HEIGHT | The total unsupported height of a member in question. |
| IBC | International Building Code. Provides most of the wind requirements for U.S. states other than Florida. |
| IMPACT SHUTTER ANALYSIS | If yes is selected in our online tools, the calculation for area of opening switches from Width * Height to Height * Height/3. It operates on the assumption that impact shutters are tested infinite width. This operates on the assumption that mother nature cannot focus a maximum burst on too narrow or too wide of an area of wall or roof cladding. Click here for more on the topic of Effective Wind Area. |
| LATERAL LOAD ALONG POST | For column calculations, this represents a horizontal force acting on a column in question. It could come from a membrane attached to a column of some sort or entered without an axial force for columns to analyze a column member acting as a beam. |
| LIVE LOAD (L) | Total live load (roof and floor) such as snow or other code required loading. |
| LRFD (Load Resistance Factor Design) | Rather than factoring down critical loads as per the ASD (allowable stress design) method, this design method requires adding the factor to the load to compare it to the actual limiting value of a component. a 200lb force would become 400lb on a ladder that actually breaks at 400lb rather than saying a ladder that actually breaks at 400lb is reduced to 200lb to compare to the limiting load. See our Factored Load Calculator design aid and this article for more. |
| MARK | This is your label to help identify the answer on the accompanying layout drawings. It has no effect on the result other than to help you coordinate your permit documents. |
| MEAN ROOF HEIGHT, MRH | This is the average roof height from the peak to the eave. Click here to learn more. |
| MEMBER TYPE | Member corresponds to a beam for areas such as the eave edge beam above openings or columns which are the supporting mullion posts. |
| MIN OVERALL BLDG DIMENSION | Along with the mean roof height, this dimension helps set the end zone width to determine the length of end zone 5 (greater pressure area). Click here to learn more. This is the shortest building dimension. The End zone 5 is 10% of this value, 40% of the mean roof height, but not less than 3’ Click here to learn more about wall zones. |
| U.N.O. | Unless Noted Otherwise. Indicates that exception(s) may exist to a specification/code requirement under certain circumstances. |
| OVERHANG | In an enclosure or building. The overhang is the portion of the roof beyond the outer supporting wall. It’s typically limited when roof panel spans are provided in our online calculators to limit the uplift on panels & connections as well as stresses on roof panels & beam spans. |
| PE | Professional Engineer. Only licensed professional engineers & registered architects are able to provide signed and sealed engineering documents needed for a building permit. |
| PERGOLA | A structure usually consisting of parallel colonnades supporting an open roof of girders and cross rafters. |
| POSITIVE/NEGATIVE | In terms of our ASCE 7 loading conventions typically used on our online calculators or master plans, positive is the force inward into the building, negative is pushing out. Expect larger negative values due to building internal pressurization. |
| REACTION | The force at each end of the member in consideration. Typically used to verify anchorage shear, which would be perpendicular to the member in the direction of the load. |
| RISK CATEGORY | A classification of buildings and other structures by “importance levels” ranging from Categories I through IV. Used in determining wind speed (Vult). Category I has the lowest wind speeds, Categories III-IV have the highest. For more information, click here. Find wind speeds for various risk categories on the ATC Wind Site. |
| ROOF SLOPE | The angle of the roof relative to horizontal. It’s typically measured in angles or rise over run. In some ASCE component & cladding calculations, if the roof slope is less than 10 degrees, there is a slight reduction in pressure. If complex roof or unsure, set to >= 10 degrees on our online calculators. |
| ROOF LIVE LOAD (Lr) | The live load on a roof is the weight of any temporary objects on the roof, such as people, and equipment. The Florida and IBC codes both require a 20psf minimum roof live load in addition to the dead load & other loads that the roof must bear. Use our Factored Load Calculator to determine the total ASD or LRFD load for your project. |
| ROOF SPAN | The unsupported clear roof span length between supports. |
| SNOW LOAD | This can either be ground, roof, or drift snow, 3 very different concepts. Be sure to use the proper value for your project. |
| SUPPORT TYPE | Four our beam calculators, ‘Simple’ follows a simply supported beam (pinned-roller) M=WL^2/8, ‘Cantilever’ assumes fixed at one end and free at the other M=WL^2/2 |
| TOPOGRAPHY FACTOR Kzt | Another multiplier when converting wind speed to wind pressure. Use 1.0 for flat terrain. For areas on or near hills, this will need to be calculated elsewhere. Worst case is 3.0. Consult a design professional or contact us if not flat terrain for proper application of this coefficient. |
| TOTAL LOAD | The sum of all imposing loads on a roof or wall surface measured in pounds per square foot. These loads are factored in accordance with (Chap 16) of the Florida or International Building Code or 2018 International Building Code. Consult a design professional to be sure & see our Factored Load design calculator. |
| TRIBUTARY WIDTH | This value sets a width (ft) that’s multiplied by the uniform load (psf) to develop a load per foot (plf) on the member in question. For considerations where you already have the load per foot on a member, select 1 foot for this option. This value is typically half the distance to the left + half the distance to the right of the next supporting member. |
| ULTIMATE (PRESSURES) | The factored total force acting on a member. This is where the load value is factored up rather than reducing the ultimate stress of a member in question. |
| UNBRACED LENGTH | The factored total force acting on a member. This is where the load value is factored up rather than reducing the ultimate stress of a member in question. |
| UNIT DEPTH | Used in our mechanical rooftop equipment calculator, Typically defined by this firm as the smaller horizontal dimension (the shorter of unit width and depth). More simply, the unit’s short side. Seek confirmation from the associated unit diagram before using this definition. |
| UNIT WIDTH | Used in our mechanical rooftop equipment calculator, Typically defined by this firm as the larger horizontal dimension (the longer of unit width and depth). More simply, the unit’s long side. Seek confirmation from the associated unit diagram before using this definition. |
| UTILIZATION | Beam utilization is the sum of squares for bending & shear ((fv/Fv)^2+ (fb/Fb)^2)^0.5. For columns is the maximum of (3) equations: sum of squares of equation above and H.1-1 (fa/Fa + fb/Fb) or H.3-2 fa/Fa + (fb/Fb)^2 + (fb/Fv)^2 of the 2015 Aluminum Design Manual |
| WIND DIRECTIONALITY FACTOR Kd | For our components & cladding calculators, This is generally 0.85. Change to 1.0 only if required by the building department or special use case directed by the architect/engineer. This factor is used in the formula that converts wind speed to wind pressure & involves a reduction due to the reduced likelihood that multiple loads will occur simultaneously on a surface. Click here to learn more. |
| WIND VELOCITY, Vult (Also Wind Speed) | The peak 3-second gust wind speed. Consult your building department or engineer for governing codes. Learn more by Clicking Here Use the ATC Wind Council Site to obtain your minimum wind speed for the risk category being designed by clicking here. |
| WIND LOAD | The total force due to wind on an object. The force can be suction or positive pressure when dealing with wall & roof pressures, or total force on a freestanding object. Typically for Engineering Express the wind load is represented in PSF (Pounds Per Square Foot) & either ASD or LRFD (allowable stress or load resistance factor design). |
| WIND ZONE | ASCE wind pressure location zone – Use Zone 4 for interior (non-corner) openings. Zone 5 are any corners that result in a higher wind speed to wind pressure conversion factor. IF UNSURE, USE 5! Click here to learn more. |
List of Abbreviations Used By Engineering Express
| ABBREVIATION | MEANING |
|---|---|
| alum | aluminum |
| ASTM | American Society for Testing and Materials |
| CS | carbon steel |
| EA | each |
| edge | edge distance |
| E.D. | edge distance |
| EDDS | extra deep drawing steel |
| elev | elevation |
| embed | embedment |
| e.g. | exempli gratia or “for example” |
| EQ | equivalent |
| equiv. | equivalent |
| FSA | Florida Statewide Product Approval |
| FEA | Finite Element Analysis |
| FL # | Florida Statewide Product Approval Number |
| FLCA | Florida Certificate of Authorization |
| FS | Florida Statutes |
| ft | feet |
| Fu | ultimate tensile strength or ultimate tensile stress |
| Fy | yield strength or yield stress |
| G | specific gravity |
| GA | gauge |
| galv. | galvanized |
| GFB | grout-filled block |
| GR | grade |
| Gr. | grade |
| HVAC | heating, ventilation, and air conditioning |
| i.e. | id est or “in other words” |
| in | inch |
| ksi | 1,000 pounds per square inch (1,000 lb / in2) |
| L | length |
| lb | pound (force) |
| m | meter |
| max. | maximum |
| MD | Miami-Dade or Miami-Dade Product Control Section |
| min. | minimum |
| mm | millimeter |
| MPa | megapascal |
| N | Newton |
| NOA | Notice of Acceptance |
| NTS | not to scale |
| O.C. | on center |
| OD | outer diameter |
| Pa | Pascal (1 N/m2) |
| pcf | pounds (force) per cubic foot (lb/ft3) |
| perp | perpendicular |
| psf | pounds (force) per square foot (lb/ft2) |
| psi | pounds (force) per square inch (lb/in2) |
| EPS | expanded polystyrene |
| qty | quantity |
| ref | reference |
| SAE | Society of Automotive Engineering |
| sched | schedule |
| SDS | self-drilling screws |
| SMS | sheet metal screws |
| specs | specifications |
| SS | stainless steel |
| TAS | Testing Application Standard |
| TDI | Texas Department of Insurance |
| TER | Technical Evaluation Report |
| typ. | typical |
| ult | ultimate loads |
| UTS | ultimate tensile strength or ultimate tensile stress |
| WLL | working load limit |
| w/ | with |
| w/o | without |
| YS | yield strength or yield stress |
| # | number |
| & | and |
| Ø | diameter |
| ‘ | feet |
| ” | inches |
Contact Us for any questions, clarifications, or suggestions you have regarding these items.
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Wind Speed vs. Wind Pressure Explained
Many don’t understand how wind works & state that a product is rated to a specific wind speed. This is false advertising & not true.
There’s no such thing as “Rated to XXX MPH wind”
This is frequently seen in marketing materials which is a false & misleading statement
that comes with many unwritten disclaimers.
The Why
The formula that converts wind velocity to wind pressure has many variables. Each variable affects the resulting pressure for a given wind velocity. A 100mph wind velocity for example can produce pressures as low as in the mid-teens (psf) to upwards of 50psf, even 60psf, and more*. These variables include such features as building height, location of the area on the building, the terrain around the building, whether the building is on or near a hill, slope of the roof, size of the area in consideration, and more.
There are even two types of wind speeds and pressures that complicate things further, Allowable stress design and Load Factored Design (click here to learn more) as well as different wind codes that govern (Some use ASCE 7-05, most use ASCE 7-10, and there’s now ASCE 7-16 with yet different conversion factors for some building surfaces for the same wind velocity). Engineers deal with a common denominator when designing structures (wind pressure) which sets a uniform standard anywhere (yes even on the moon) for a force that a product can resist.
How We can help
1) Engineering Express provides certified wind charts for permit for windows, doors, and garage doors. Click Here to browse our plan store
2) Engineering Express also provides a free online tool to convert wind velocity to wind pressure. Click Here to access it
* ASCE 7-16 Exposure D, 300 ft MRH, Zones 5 and 3 respectively, 10sqft tributary area, enclosed structure, flat terrain, Kd=0.85, Forces upwards of 70psf + possible for hilly terrain, partially enclosed, Kd=1.0, at sea level.
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Engineering 48
What is a delagate engineer and what are their responsibilties
What is a Delegate Engineer? (Florida descriptions, but other states follow the same or similar requirements)
A delegate engineer is a Professional Engineer (PE) who undertakes a specialty service and provides services or creative work regarding a portion of the engineering project.
The delegated engineer is the engineer for that portion of the engineering project. They are responsible for signing and sealing all of their delegated tasks, such as drawings and calculations, complying with all requests from the Engineer of Record (EoR), communicating effectively with the EoR and other involved personnel on a timely basis to ensure the satisfactory design of all elements.
Is there a difference between Delegate Engineers in different states?
While there may be slight variations in specific requirements or regulations between states, a delegate engineer’s core duties and qualifications are likely to remain similar regardless of location.
These differences are usually related to licensing requirements and industry practices based on the respective state.
What is an EoR and what is their role?
The Engineer of Record is a professional engineer who is officially responsible for the design, analysis, or evaluation of a particular engineering project as a whole (such as the primary structure).
The EoR typically oversees the delegated engineering aspects of a project, ensuring that they meet applicable codes, standards, and specifications.
These include design oversight, code compliance per location, quality assurance, coordination, documentation, permitting approval, and construction support. Sometimes Architects of Record serve in this capacity.
Relationship between the EoR and the Delegate Engineer:
The EoR has no universal definition, however they have similar attributes.
An EoR is defined as “A licensed professional engineer who is in responsible charge for the preparation, signing, dating, sealing and issuing of any engineering documents for any engineering service or creative work.”
If the EoR wants something installed, such as a canopy on a building, he could hire or work with a delegate engineer, who could do the engineering solely for the desired canopy.
The delegate engineer would then create and seal the plans and calculations for the canopy.
The EoR would be responsible for ensuring that the building has the structural capacity to support the canopy.
In this case, the delegate engineer would only be liable for the canopy and its connection to the building, and the EoR would be responsible for the building’s ability to support the canopy and the integrity of the substrate the canopy is connecting to.
What is the benefit of hiring a Delegate Engineer?
The benefit of hiring a Delegate Engineer is the shared mastery of the structure.
The more expert, experienced minds attached to a project, the more likely that structure is to be properly designed, considering all aspects and history of such work.
By dispersing tasks among various professional engineers with different niches, a deeper understanding of the project can be achieved.
Some engineers, such as the EoR, may be better at understanding the dynamics of the building, while others, such as the delegate engineer, may be specialists in windows or canopies.
It is imperative that we collectively use our experience as engineers to design and innovate to the best of our abilities.
References & Resources
Florida Delegate Engineer Scope
Delegate Engineer vs Structural Engineer:
FBPE Newsletter
https://fbpe.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/october2013newsletter.pdf
Engineer of Record Article
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What is the process to renew a Miami Dade NOA I have?
Introduction
A Miami-Dade NOA (notice of acceptance) renewal is required to extend the NOA expiration date another 5 years beyond its current expiration date. To renew your NOA, you must submit an NOA renewal application. Engineering Express can prepare and file this renewal application on your behalf.
The NOA expiration date is NOT the date the NOA can be used until. That’s just the date the quality assurance contract expires between the manufacturer and Miam-Dade. The use of the document by the consumer is governed by the applicable building code cycle. For more on the NOA expiration date vs the building code cycle, which can be used, and why renewals are required, click here.
The Process
To understand the NOA renewal process, please see the following links. We strongly recommend you read through these items from Miami-Dade to understand what is required for NOA Renewal:
- Miami-Dade NOA Renewal Checklist:
https://www.miamidade.gov/building/library/checklists/noa-renewals.pdf
- NOA Basic Requirements Checklist:
https://www.miamidade.gov/building/library/checklists/noa-basic-requirements.pdf
- NOA General Submittal Information Checklist:
https://www.miamidade.gov/building/library/checklists/noa-general-submittal.pdf
- NOA Application (PC001):
https://www.miamidade.gov/building/library/forms/noa-application.pdf
Additional Notes for Consideration:
- It is the manufacturer’s responsibility to monitor their NOA expiration date(s) and submit the required renewal application(s) well in advance of the expiration to ensure continued NOA certification.
- It is suggested to file your renewal application at least 3 months in advance of the NOA expiration date, to ensure there is enough time for Miami-Dade’s review and processing of the renewal application. This also provides enough time to address comments on the application from Miami-Dade (if applicable). The NOA Application itself states the estimated time of processing is 60 days for renewal.
- If Engineering Express or any evaluation company is filing your renewal application, it is suggested to contact them at least 6 months in advance of the expiration date, to ensure there is enough time to quote and complete the renewal application.Engineering Express will not be held responsible if the NOA becomes expired and/or is subject to higher renewal fees to renew the NOA.
- A renewal application requires no changes to be made to the NOA drawing. This means any technical or non-technical changes, including any additions to, modification of, or removal of, the information in the NOA may trigger comments or rejection of the Renewal application by Miami-Dade. See other services for making these modifications to your NOA.
- If your NOA has testing that is older than 10 years, you may be required by Miami-Dade to perform additional verification testing for Miami-Dade to renew your NOA:
See “NOA General Submittal Information Checklist”, Page 2 from this link
See “Miami-Dade NOA Renewal Checklist”, Page 2 from this link
If you think your NOA is subject to the verification testing requirement, it is our suggestion to submit a regular renewal application first. This ensures that Miami-Dade is requiring the verification testing, and if so, what the requirements are for the verification testing for your product.
- Depending on the product, Engineering Express may be able to certify your product via another product approval method at a lower cost and/or faster processing time.
Can I still use a Miami-Dade NOA if the Quality Assurance Contract and/or Building Code is Expired?
There’s a chance an expired product evaluation report can still be used.
If the Miami-Dade NOA is for use OUTSIDE Miami-Dade County, First check to see if a similar Florida Product Approval exists for the current code cycle. You can do that by clicking here.
If there is no corresponding Florida Product Approval, a Local Florida Product Approval can be performed based on the Miami-Dade NOA. The originating engineer would be most applicable for this process since they know the product specifications best, but sometimes if the code cycle does not change design requirements, a secondary engineer can write an opinion letter and create a local approval submittal package in accordance with Florida State Guideline FS 553.8425. Contact us to see if we can assist in this regard.
If it is for permit & construction INSIDE Miami-Dade County, a one-time product approval can be applied for. That’s basically a Local Product Approval that strictly follows Miami-Dade guidelines. The process is long and relatively expensive for the need, but possible. It’s best to contact the source evaluator/engineer to provide this work or contact the manufacturer directly to discuss your need.
Further Reading
For more information on other product approval options, please see:
https://www.engineeringexpress.com/wiki/3-myths-about-product-evaluations-approvals/
https://www.engineeringexpress.com/wiki/what-is-a-ter/
Contact Engineering Express to discuss special/other considerations unique to your NOA. See also our other Knowledge Base articles.
NOTE: Information in this document is not to be construed as formal, official, or binding without a certified design & approval by a licensed Professional Engineer of the firm. This firm will not be liable for any errors, omissions, delays, losses, injuries, or damages arising from the information provided herein.
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Whats the difference between the Miami Dade NOA Quality Assurance Date and the Building Code Expiration Date?
Learn How To Quickly Spot And Use QA Expiration & Code Dates On a Miami Dade NOA
Why This Is So Important
Miami Dade Lists an ‘Expiration Date’ on the cover page of their Miami Dade NOA’s, which is misunderstood and frequently misused.
Many times the product being used is NOT Code compliant, even though the NOA hasn’t ‘Expired’ yet.
What The Expiration Date Is And Why It’s Used
A requirement of Miami-Dade is a periodic quality assurance review of the manufacturing facility in order to obtain a Miami-Dade NOA certification.
That expiration date is the date the Quality Assurance contract expires with the manufacturer.
That date is DIFFERENT than the date of the applicable building code. Permits using the Miami Dade NOA documentation must align with the Code Expiration Date, NOT the quality assurance date.
So Why Would The QA Expiration Date Matter?
When a permit is applied for, the building code in effect is not always the code at the date of the permit application.
An open building permit in 2022 for example may have a window permit in 2024 when a new code is in effect (the 2023 FBC vs 2020 FBC).
In this case, both the code date and QA expiration date are valid and the document may be used.
If for example a 2020FBC permit was applied for on February 1, 2025, the document shown here would NOT be approved as the QA date expired.
Miami Dade Cover Page Example. Click image to view this listing & source document
Where Do I Find The Building Code In The Miami Dade NOA?
Always check the general notes of the performance evaluation plans of the applicable Miami-Dade NOA to find the applicable code references.
In this case, this particular listing is approved to the 2017 and 2020 Florida Building Code but NOT the 2023 FBC.
So if a permit was pulled February 1, 2024, the QA date shows it’s current but the product would NOT BE APPROVED since it is out of current building codes.
Always check for code compliance when using any performance evaluation as the codes change. the 2023 FBC for example now uses ASCE 7-22. The prior code version used ASCE 7-16. You can also see that in the highlighted box shown.
Miami Dade NOA Plan Page Example. Click image to view this listing & source document
Possible Solutions For Using An Outdated Miami-Dade NOA
Many times the applicant may be developing the updated plan or the plan may still be in review with Miami-Dade.
We suggest contacting the manufacturer to see if there is an updated plan available. It may possibly be updated as a Florida Product Approval, but not Miami Dade.
There’s also a Florida Local Product Approval Method that can allow any firm to provide a site-specific, one-time evaluation of an expired product for applicability to a specific project. Ref FS 553.8425) – read more.
Click Here to discuss that need with Engineering Express.
Quickly Search All Miami Dade NOA’s & Florida Product Approvals
Find the updated plan or another product that meets the building codes you need fast
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*** Find More Help With Product Approvals ***
Find more general help with Florida & Miami-Dade Product Approvals by visiting the support articles of EngineeringPlans.com.
Also quickly smart-search Florida & Miami-Dade approvals using their synchronized Search.
SEARCH PRODUCT APPROVALS
Smart Search All Florida & Miami-Dade Product Approvals & Create Your Perfect Design
What’s the difference between ground and roof snow load for patio covers?
Ground vs. Roof Snow Load
Many don’t understand that the snow load that’s rated for an area typically refers to the snow accumulating on
the ground surface. There are many variables that come into play when converting from ground to roof snow load. This article explains those factors for uniform snow-loading conditions.
Ground Snow Load Defined
Ground Snow Load (pG)
The ground snow load a.k.a. PG is used in the determination of the design roof snow load of a site. This number is based
on the historical measurements taken at various weather stations in the U.S. It can be found either in the ASCE 7 (chapter 7 – Fig 7.2.1, ASCE 7-16/22) or on ATC website (https://hazards.atcouncil.org/).
Case Studies
However, in some areas designated as “CS” in ASCE 7, site-specific case studies are required to determine the ground snow load. In fact, these areas face extreme variations in ground snow loads which make difficult the mapping considering the scale use in the Code. For these areas, ground snow load shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. For these areas, some more research is necessary even though it can be mentioned on ATC website.
Takeaway: Always contact your local building department to determine the local ground snow load.
So what about the Roof Snow Load?
It is important to notice that the ground snow load is not the actual load that is applied on the roof structure being designed, it is just a datum, given resulting of historical measurements and statistical calculations. It does not consider either the characteristics or the purpose of the structure. Let’s examine the various types of roof snow loading.
Flat Roof Snow Load (pf)
In most cases of patio enclosure designs (such as carports, louvered roofs, and monoslope sunrooms), the structure will have a flat roof (roof slope ≤ 5°).
Formula 7.3-1 of ASCE 7 (2016/22 versions) gives us the flat roof snow relation:
p_f=0.7×C_e×C_t×I_s×p_g
Were
Were
C_e=Exposure Factor
C_t=Thermal Factor
I_s=Importance Factor
p_g=Ground Snow Load (per the ASCE-7 snow map)
The Exposure Factor Ce gets higher the more the structure is sheltered and close to other buildings. It is driven by 2 factors: the Terrain Category (“Surface Roughness”), and the Exposure of Roof. Ce value is determined using Table 7.3-1 of the ASCE 7-16/22 as summarized herein:
| Exposure Factor Ce | |||
| Exposure of Roof | |||
| Surface Roughness | Fully Exposed | Partially Exposed | Sheltered |
| B | 0.9 | 1.0 | 1.2 |
| C | 0.9 | 1.0 | 1.1 |
| D | 0.8 | 0.9 | 1.0 |
– Fully Exposed – Roof exposed on all sides with no shelter afforded ny terrain, higher structures, or trees.
– Sheltered – Roofs located tight in among conifers that qualify as obstructions.
– Partially Exposed – Most frequent, all other roofs than those indicated above.
– B – Urban and suburban areas, wooded areas, or other terrain with numerous, closely spaced obstructions.
– C – Open terrain with scattered obstructions that have heights generally less than 30 ft
– D – Flat, unobstructed areas and water surfaces.
The Thermal Factor Ct is supposed to reflect, at some point, the warmth inside the structure. This number can be determined using Table 7.3-2 of the ASCE 7 (2016). It will also affect the Sloped Roof Snow Load, which is discussed below. Roofs can be divided into two categories depending on their Thermal Factor:
- Warm Roofs: Ct ≤ 1 (typically used for sunrooms and used for habitable structures)
- Cold Roofs: Ct > 1 (typically used for open pergolas & canopies)
The Importance Factor I is not limited to the Snow. In fact, it is a set of 4 numbers (Snow, Ice-Thickness, Ice-Wind and Seismic Importance Factor) that depend on the Risk Category (Table 1.5-1) of the structure. They can be determined using Table 1.5-2 of the ASCE 7 (2016/2022). In our case, only the Snow Importance Factor Is matters.
- All structures other than below = 1.0Structures just above freezing (such as a pergola or patio enclosure) = 1.1
Open Air Stru
The Sloped Roof Snow Load ps (where roof slope > 5°)
A roof with a slope ≥ 5° is considered a sloped roof, and the Snow loads acting on a sloping surface are assumed to be acting on the horizontal projection of the surface. Hence, using trigonometry reasoning, we can easily understand that ps must be inferior or equal to pf i.e., a slopped roof faces less snow loads than a flat roof.
The sloped roof (balanced) snow load is given by the Formula 7.4-1 of the ASCE 7-16:
p_s= p_f C_s
Where:
The Roof Slope Factor Cs relies on 3 Factors: The Thermal Factor Ct, The slope of the roof, and the (un)obstruction of the surface. It can be determined using the Table 7.4-1 of the ASCE 7-16/ ASCE 7-22.
General Comparison:
Here are some general comparisons for your understanding of the above when comparing a ground snow load to a roof snow load. THESE ARE NOT the design loads you should use. See the section below for more factors. Factors other than snow such as wind, seismic, minimum code loading requirements, and site-specific conditions all factor in to the final load condition to be used for design. It’s complicated and a task for a licenced design professional. We recommend you Contact Engineering Express to request a service to run these factored load calculations for your condition to obtain a proper design and certified plan for permit.
Using a 20psf Ground Snow Load:
| Exposure Factor Category (Surface Roughness) | Resulting Exposure factor Ce (Partially Exposed) |
Structure Type Examples | Thermal Factor, Ct | Importance Factor, I (Patio: Risk II) |
ROOF SNOW LOAD Flat (< 5 degrees), PSF |
ROOF SNOW LOAD Sloped Roof (30°) Unobstructed Slippery Surface (FIG 7.4-1), PSF |
ROOF SNOW LOAD Sloped Roof (30°) All Other Surfaces, PSF |
| B | 1.0 | Pergola & Open Air Structures (Cold) | 1.2 | 1 | 16.8 | 13.1 | 16.8 |
| 1.0 | Continuously Heated Greenhouse (Warm) | 0.85 | 1 | 11.9 | 7.4 | 11.9 | |
| C | 1.0 | Pergola & Open Air Structures (Cold) | 1.2 | 1 | 16.8 | 13.1 | 16.8 |
| 1.0 | Continuously Heated Greenhouse (Warm) | 0.85 | 1 | 11.9 | 7.4 | 11.9 | |
| D | 0.9 | Pergola & Open Air Structures (Cold) | 1.2 | 1 | 15.1 | 11.8 | 15.1 |
| 0.9 | Continuously Heated Greenhouse (Warm) | 0.85 | 1 | 10.7 | 6.7 | 10.7 |
Commentary
It can be seen that generally, the roof snow load is 33%-84% of the ground snow load in these examples. To be conservative, the ground snow load can be used as the roof snow load, but sometimes this can be excessive.
Other Factors To Consider:
Snow Drift
On the other side of the load calculation is snow drift. this is the further accumulation of snow due to wind collecting on a rooftop due to the collection of snow against a verticle surface. This is an in-depth calculation and beyond the scope of this explanation. We recommend you Contact Engineering Express to request a service to run this calculation for your condition.
Snow Build Over
Another factor to consider when reviewing snow loading on open trellises and pergolas is the snow build-over effect. That was covered in another article in this knowledge base. Click here to read that article.
Icing
Another related condition is the accumulation of ice on structures. This is caused by the melting and re-freezing of snow or freezing rain that builds on surfaces. ASCE-7 has an icing chart and methodology for calculating this force.
The total load applied to a structure due to snow & ice is a factored load combination of the above elements. Again, out of the scope of this article, but important to take note of. We recommend you Contact Engineering Express to request a service to run these factored load calculations for your condition to obtain a proper design and certified plan for permit.
References:
IBC 2018 Chapter 16 section 1608.2
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Performance Limitations for Mechanical Equipment & TER Certifications
Summary of Building Code & Research Intent
The intent & provisions of the 2018 International Building Code (IBC), 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) & 2020 Florida Building/Residential Codes are to establish minimum
requirements to safeguard the public safety, health, and general welfare of occupants of new and existing buildings & structures.
From 2022 / 2020 FBC, 8th/7th Edition, Chapter 1 [A]101.3 Intent.
The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of safety, public health and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, adequate light and ventilation, energy conservation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment and to provide a reasonable level of safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
While not ideal, the safety & well-being of the public comes first as a code-minimum standard.
The building codes relate to the design of mechanical equipment, whether part of the building envelope or outside & not part of the building envelope.
* The safety & welfare of the public is compromised when a mechanical unit jeopardizes the integrity of the building envelope. This occurs when a rooftop unit is dislodged & an opening in the rooftop creates building envelope internal pressurization or a rooftop or ground-mounted unit disassembles during a wind event & creates flying debris which can jeopardize the integrity of surrounding buildings (see graphic).
The wind design of mechanical units follows Chapter 16 of the Florida or International Building Codes (2020/2018 linked respectively). Specific attention is drawn to loading on ‘other structures’, which is a separate design component of ASCE-7 (Chapter 29, ASCE 7-16). Section 29.4 relates to ground or roof-mounted unit wind design. Section 30.10 describes rooftop structures & equipment design for buildings & explains forces shall be considered to act inward & outward on the surface wall and in upward directions.
This design does not define deflection or permanent-set limits after a wind event but implies integrity must be maintained of the unit as a whole.
Additionally, the 2020 Florida Building Code defines in Chapter 28, Mechanical Systems – Mechanical Code Section 301.15 Wind resistance. Mechanical Equipment, appliances & supports that are exposed to wind shall be designed & installed to resist the wind pressures determined in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building (with exceptions).
Additional publications which further define the minimum standards of design include:
- AHRI 1310p, which states Section 1.1.1 Intent. This standard is intended to provide guidance regarding the minimum requirements of exposed equipment cabinetry to safeguard surrounding elements from windborne debris damage through structural strength to resist wind forces that cause overturning, sliding or separation of unit components.
- See also Florida House Bill 535 663, 704 (FS 5523.844) Senate Bill SB 1040 for additional certification requirements & limitations as they pertain to requirements of design in Florida.
- See also ASHRAE Journal, Vol 48, No 3. P 36-43. Reinhold, T.A. (2006) Wind Loads & Anchorage Requirements for Rooftop Equipment
- See also IBHS “Wind Loads on Small Roof-Mounted Air Conditioning Units”, Morrison, Murray J., Ph.D. (2013) (Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety)
- See also Journal of Wind & Engineering, “Wind Loads Rooftop Equipment Mounted on A Flat Roof” 8(1), 23-41, Erwin, J.W., Chowdhury, A.G. & Bitsuamlak, G. (2011)
- See also “Wind Loads on Roof-Mounted Cube (BLWT-SS47-2007), London, ON, Canada, The Boundary Layer Wind Tunnel Laboratory, Kopp, G.A. & Traczuk, G. (2007).
The Code is to be a minimum requirement that is flexible and affordable. It isn’t intended to inhibit competition and it should promote innovation and the use of new technology. The primary goal is the minimum standards for public health and safety. The secondary goal is for the protection of property.
What Engineers Certify With Performance Evaluations
Performance Evaluations are a generic code-minimum requirement for installing mechanical units (air compressors, package units, generators, etc). They establish a maximum static-force pressure rating (typically in ASD, allowable stress design as noted on the evaluations) that the cabinet in question can theoretically withstand at the time of installation per the above-referenced codes & standards. This evaluation is based on a combination of recognized testing & rational analysis for the overall diaphragm, each panel component, and unit tie-down.
The maximum pressure rating establishes a performance baseline under which the unit can adequately resist the imposed static wind loading without experiencing failure of the unit cabinetry or tie-down system, as defined in the evaluation.
If the unit is designated for an essential facility, it must also pass large missile impact testing & certification. Missile Impact is a test-only phenomenon that is governed by ASTM E1886 & ASTM E1996.
Per FBC 453.24.5:
Electrical & standby emergency power systems… When generators are installed, the facility housing the generator, permanent or portable, shall be an enclosed area designed to protect the generators from wind & missile impact. Generators hardened by the manufacturer to withstand the area’s design wind & missile impact criteria shall be exempt from the enclosed area criteria requirement.
In the Florida Building Code 2020 section 1626.1.d – an exemption states that HVAC equipment does not require impact protection for “standard facilities.
Refer to our article on missile impact requirements for mechanical equipment in essential facilities by clicking here.
This exemption means that generators for residential units do not have to go through testing & impact certification & are subject to damage & dislodgement when impacted with design-force impact debris. Our Technical Evaluation Reports make it clear that certification of the unit does not apply to systems subjected to impact forces. Consequently, the unit’s operation is not guaranteed after a design event.
What Isn’t Covered Within Performance Evaluations
In addition to static load, non-impact limitations of non-essential facilities & the certification for missile & wind forces within static facilities, it is critical to understand that performance evaluations do not comprise a certification of any
system or unit at a site-specific location.
A Design Professional (such as a licensed professional engineer or registered architect certified to practice within the state of the project location) must determine the site-specific conditions to interpret the design wind velocity and resulting wind pressure(s) acting on the unit in question. Factors such as the installing height from grade, geographic exposure, flat/hilly terrain (escarpment), the geometry of the unit, unit location relative to the roof layout, and vortex-contributing factors, among others, all contribute to the wind velocity-to-pressure conversion. Using a sealed TER without a design professional’s site-specific review is a violation of the code and does not constitute acceptable engineering for permit or installation.
Engineering Express publishes a rooftop equipment wind velocity to pressure calculator to demonstrate these variables for design professional estimation. We also publish a Forces Guideline Page to assist in adapting the results to a site-specific condition as a public service.
Important Limitations of Use & Code Compliance
In addition to specifying the installation conditions for wind pressure certification, Technical Evaluation Reports specify that the manufacturer, installing contractor, and end-user collectively have responsibilities for maintaining performance as well. These limitations may or may not be directly incorporated in the evaluation report or contract documents but are within communication with the client and indirectly referenced herein via the URL & QR codes found on reports. These include:
Survivability:
Evaluation reports are valid for a newly installed unit and do not include certification of the product beyond a design event if impacted. Inspections shall be implemented during annual equipment maintenance or after a named storm. All fasteners and cabinet components are to be verified, and all damaged, loose, corroded, and/or broken fasteners and cabinet components shall be replaced to ensure structural integrity against hurricane wind forces. Contact this office for any reevaluation needs as designated by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Durability:
Components or component assemblies shall not deteriorate, crack, fail, or lose functionality due to galvanic corrosion or weathering. All supporting components that are permanently installed shall be protected against corrosion, contamination, and other such damage at all times. Each component or assembly shall be supported and oriented in its intended installation position. All exposed plastic components shall be certified to resist sunlight exposure as specified by ASTM B117 or ASTM G155 in Broward or Miami-Dade counties.
Extent of Certification:
Certifications pertain to the structural integrity of the unit components listed within the evaluation, subject to the limitations and criteria stated therein. Operability and water infiltration are outside the bounds of this certification. No other certifications are intended. This evaluation alone does not offer any evaluation for large missile impact debris or cyclic wind requirements unless specifically stated within the evaluation.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE DO ANY OF OUR PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS GUARANTEE, IMPLY, OR STATE THAT THE PERFORMANCE OF THE UNIT IS MAINTAINED DURING OR AFTER A DESIGN EVENT.
* Items in bold-italic represent the opinions of this firm, and while it is of the opinion of the firm that they are adequately researched & documented, they do not describe facts or necessarily refer to specific code compliance.
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Sunroom Terminology
The following is a summary of sunroom-related terms provided courtesy of the National Sunroom Association.
Click Here for the official publication provided by the NSA, reprinted here for informational purposes.
The terminology information encompasses many common terms used in the sunroom industry. You will note
that some terms are cross-referenced to a “primary” term. The “primary” term is the one that would be used
most often in sunroom publications.
Concerning the term and definitions contained in this Sunroom Data Sheet, please note the following:
• This Sunroom Data Sheet is not to be construed as a standard-type document, and therefore the
terms and definitions contained therein do not imply or suggest a given use to particular
manufacturer.
• This Sunroom Data Sheet includes a compilation of commonly used terms, and may not be
considered complete from an industry viewpoint.
• The terms and definitions are not universal. Variations within the industry may exist with regard to
precise meaning.
2021, rev. 4/1/21 – NSA
Note: This document is reviewed periodically and may be updated. Visit www.nationalsunroom.org for the latest version.
Awning Window: A hinged window that opens horizontally.
Batten: A two-piece assembly that facilitates the attachment of two roof components.
Casement Window: A hinged window that opens to the left or the right via a cranking mechanism.
Chase Way: An opening in an extrusion allowing wires to be run internal to the wall system.
Cricket: A roof structure that is designed to divert water around an obstacle or low point to ensure water is
properly evacuated, and is normally the same pitch as the rest of the roof.
Double Hung Window: An operable window with two sashes where both the top and bottom sash will
operate to allow for additional ventilation.
Electrical Box: Plastic or metal box that can be used to make electrical connections, house outlets, or
switches, and should be listed and CPSC compliant.
Engineered Lumber: See Laminated Verneer Lumber.
EPS: A type of foam plastic, known as expanded polystyrene, used for its insulative properties in sunrooms.
Fascia: A decorative component used to cover and seal the end of a roof panel, to reduce opportunity for water
infiltration and aesthetically change the look of the end of a roof system.
Flashing: Sheet of thin, impervious, exposed or embedded material used to prevent water penetration into a
building and to direct the flow of moisture in walls.
Footing: Concrete, block, or aggregate piles set below the frost line to support the foundation and prevent
heaving or settling of a structure; the sizing of these must be properly engineered to support the room and
support structure being built.
Frame: Exterior assembly that contains the window sashes and screens.
French Door: A swing door that has two panels, both of which open from the middle and can open either to
the inside or outside of the home.
Frost Line: The depth of frost penetration in solid ground, or the depth at which the earth will freeze and swell,
dependent on the geographic location.
Gable Roof: A room that peaks in the middle, as looking at the existing structure, that slopes down to the
outside walls on both sides.
Garden Patio Door: A swing door with two panels, only one of which opens, that can open from the outside
framing or center mullion and can swing inside or outside of the home.
Glazing: Rubber or silicone bedding that seals the glass to the window sash.
Glazing Bead: Removable component of a window sash that is snapped in to hold an insulated glazing unit in
place.
Gutter: A type of side fascia that is designed to capture water running off of the roof, channel it to a specific
low point, and allow it to evacuate.
Header: Top horizontal structural component of a window, door, or wall section.
Hip Roof: A roof that has four inclined sides.
I-Beam: A structural roof mullion that facilitates the attachment of two roof components.
Jamb: Vertical window or door frame component that provides vertical structure to the unit.
J-Channel: Vinyl or aluminum component that is used to enclose the cut end of siding to provide a clean finish.
Joist: A horizontal structural member used in framing to span an open space, often between beams that
subsequently transfer loads to vertical members.
Keeper: Fixed component of a window lock that accepts the lock cam.
Knee Wall: A wall or window less than three feet in height used as a base wall in a sunroom application,
typically either glass picture windows or foam core panels with aluminum or vinyl skins.
Lag Screw: A mechanical fastener used to connect load bearing lumber or other materials.
Laminated Verneer Lumber (LVL): Lumber with specific engineered properties, used for the building of
sunrooms and decks.
Ledger Board: A horizontal lumber beam attached to an existing wall and used to tie in construction elements
such as porch roofs and decks.
Monoslope Roof: See Shed Roof
Mullion: Vertical or horizontal component used to join two units together such as window to window, window
to door, or unit to framing, within an opening or sunroom wall system.
Peak: The highest point of the room structure, which can be internal within the room or external where the top
of the roof will tie in to the home.
Picture Window: A non-operable window used in a replacement or sunroom application.
Pier: A vertical load bearing member of a deck or support structure for a room.
Pitch: Slope of a roof panel, typically in inches of vertical increase per 12 inches of horizontal travel.
Post: Vertical component used to carry loads on a structure.
Raceway: A cavity within an extrusion that is used to house electrical wires internal to a wall system. [Note:
Unless electrical connections are being made in this cavity, it is not typically required to be UL listed. If products
do not carry a UL listing, all electrical connections must be made within a labeled box to be compliant with codes.]
Ridge Cap: External assembly attached to a roof to allow venting from within the space.
Rim Joist: A joist attached perpendicular to other joists, providing lateral support for the ends of
the joists while capping off the end of a floor or deck system.
Roof Panel: Multi-ply panel used to cover the top of the room and bear any environmental loads (either snow
or wind) associated with sealing the room.
Sash: Operable portions of horizontal sliding, vertical sliding, and hinged windows.
Shed Roof: Single slope roof that slopes away from the existing structure.
Side Lite: Unit placed next to a door to give the illusion of another door lite panel, used to maintain a door
aesthetic while utilizing a configuration in lieu of a larger door.
Sill: The bottom component of a window, door, or wall section, meant to tie directly to an opening or framing
and facilitate water evacuation from a system.
Sill Plate: Bottom horizontal member of a wall or building to which vertical supports are attached.
Single Hung Window: An operable window that has two sashes where only the bottom sash will operate.
Skylight: A fixed or operable window installed in the roof of a structure to allow for additional ventilation or
light entry into a space.
Slider Window: An operable window that has two or three sashes that slide horizontally for ventilation.
Sliding Glass Door: A two to four sash door with a combination of fixed and operating lites that slide to allow
for egress and ventilation.
Studio Roof: See Shed Roof
Swing Door: A single or dual panel door hinged on one side and designed to swing in or out.
Tie-In: Mechanical fastening and sealing of the room and roof to the existing structure.
Transom: Unit that is placed over top of a standard wall unit to allow for increase wall height.
Trapezoidal Panel: Angular window with 4 sides, typically used directly under the roof on the pitched wall
of the room.
Wing Panel: Trapezoidal panel located between the windows and the roof on the pitched side.
Wool Pile: Material commonly inserted in window sashes and frame to seal two moving components, placed
to reduce the amount of air or water infiltration through an opening while still allowing the components to
operate
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Door and Hardware Online Glossary
Thanks to our partners at ASSA ABLOY, we’re happy to pass along this helpful glossary of industry lingo. Learn all about the many terms used in the door and hardware industry
Click here to visit the ASSA ABLOY Glossary
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Search our AC model Database
Click Here to access our model database tool. You can filter by your AC brand, model, and number to find the TER report you need to purchase for permit.
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I see values for F1 and F2 on Evaluation Reports. What are they?
F1 and F2 are the limiting performance capacities of the forces in the parallel and perpendicular directions of a building component. Which one is which direction appears in a guide in each TER or corresponding test reports.
There’s also an interaction between the 2 forces that cannot be exceeded which is also explained on the reports. it’s either a linear or parabolic interaction that requires the unity of both forces to be less than 1.0. This information is to be reviewed with and by a design professional for each project.
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Learn About Rooftop & Ground Wind Forces for Mechanical Units
Want to learn how to design AC units on stands or curbs for wind design?
Are you looking for tools to help in in design?
Visit our FORCES page to learn more.
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About Door Product Pressure Ratings and Water Infiltration
QUESTION: Why do certain door products rate a certain p.s.f like -60/+60 then lower ratings are shown throughout the product approval?
Usually, the higher door pressure performance are not taking the water testing & infiltration conditions into consideration. A deeper search into the evaluation will likely reveal limitations of performance if water infiltration is required.
So What Is Water Infiltration?
Per FBC 2411.3.2.1 & Per 1907.5.1
Also valid for IBC 2018 1709.5 with modifications (click here to see)
- Door assemblies installed where the overhang (OH) ratio is equal to or more than 1 need not be tested for water infiltration. The overhang ratio shall be calculated by the following equation:OH ratio = OH length/OH height
where:
OH length = The horizontal measure of how far an overhang over a door projects out from the door’s surface.
OH height = The vertical measure of the distance from the door’s sill to the bottom of the overhang over a door.
NOTE: Pass-through windows for serving from a single-family kitchen, where protected by a roof overhang of 5 feet (1.5 m) or more shall be exempted from the requirements of the water infiltration test.
…at which time the door will have to be underneath an overhang per section 1709.5.1 of the 7th Edition (2020) Florida building code. Once water resistance is required, the structural positive pressure may be lower. This is where you are likely to see +40/-60 so of these, (60/60 and 40/60) the lowest will govern. On doors there is usually a variation of thresholds with different ratings.
Excerpt from 1709.5.1 Exterior windows and doors.
Exterior windows and sliding doors shall be tested and labeled as conforming to AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440 or TAS 202 (HVHZ shall comply with TAS 202 and ASTM E1300 or Section 2404). Exterior side-hinged doors shall be tested and labeled as conforming to AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/ I.S.2/A440 or comply with Section 1709.5.2.
Products tested and labeled as conforming to AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 shall not be subject to the requirements of Sections 2403.2 and 2403.3. Exterior windows and doors shall be labeled with a permanent label, marking, or etching providing traceability to the manufacturer and product.
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What are Limitations of Small & Large Missile Impact Designs?
We are frequently asked what are the limitations applied on Small Missile Impact and Large Missile Impact products. Engineering Express takes into consideration the following code limitations while preparing design charts for operable windows/glass doors and non-operable windows/glass doors:
Referencing Florida Building Code Seventh Edition, (2020) Chapter 2411.3.2.4.i & 1709.5.1.3.i for Operable Windows and Glass doors:
- For Windows and Doors other than Bifold or sliding glass doors, the Tested area (Frame width x Frame Height) shall not be exceeded in alternate frame sizes mentioned in the design charts.
- For Bifold or sliding glass doors, the Tested panel area (Panel width x Panel height) shall not be exceeded in alternate frame sizes mentioned in the Design charts. However, the alternate overall frame area shall exceed the tested area by a maximum of 1.5 x tested overall frame area.
In all cases, the Tested Frame height shall not be exceeded.
- Frame Tributaries may vary, considering Horizontal member length limitations, load, and deflection calculated from the new tributary width.
- All other Factors such as deflection, distributed or concentrated load applied on members, cyclic wind pressure, design wind, and unbraced member length shall not be exceeded and/or studied while preparing the design charts.
Referencing Florida Building Code seventh Edition (2020) Chapter 2411.3.2.4.ii & 1709.5.1.3.ii for Non-Operable Windows and Glass doors:
- For Windows and Doors other than Bifold or sliding glass doors, the Tested area (Frame width x Frame Height) shall not be exceeded in alternate frame sizes mentioned in the design charts.
- In all cases, the Tested Frame height shall not be exceeded.
- Frame Tributaries may vary, considering Horizontal member length limitations, load, and deflection calculated from the new tributary width.
- All other Factors such as deflection, distributed or concentrated load applied on members, cyclic wind pressure, design wind, and unbraced member length shall not be exceeded and/or studied while preparing the design charts.
Lastly, Engineering Express’s design team takes into consideration other factors to deliver properly designed Impact Products which we would be happy to discuss with you as needed. We ensure the designed products comply with Florida Building Code, successfully submitted, and will be legally approved by the Authority having jurisdiction.
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Requirements of Substituting Glass Panels In Insulating Glass Systems
ASTM 1996-17 Regarding Glass Substitution
Section A1.8 states: “A1.8.1.1 The impact resisting lite (monolithic or laminated) of an insulating glass unit shall be composed of the same glass type and treatment with equal thickness or thicknesses of glass, and thicker or equal interlayer of the same manufacturer and type as originally tested and approved.
Section A1.8 states: “A1.8.1.5 Glazing systems typically have a stationary glazing stop that is a permanent part of the frame or sash, or a removable glazing stop (also referred to as a glazing bead), or both. If a removable stop is used, a system can be tested with this stop removed, if it considered to be non-structural and unnecessary to pass the required test.”
Section A1.8 states: “A1.8.2 Systems Tested with a Removable Glazing Stop or Bead in Place.
Section A1.8 states: “A1.8.2.1 Any substitution to an insulating glass unit from a single glazing (monolithic or laminated glass) shall require the testing of one additional specimen provided the system meets all the preconditions in A1.8.1.
Note: This is assumed no additional testing is performed. ASTM provisions permit one additional sample can be tested to substitute spacers or glass. Contact Engineering Express to further discuss how we can develop a test protocol for your glazing system or provide a review & approval of glass or spacing substitution.
See also ASTM requirements for glass spacers
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Requirements of Substituting Insulated Glass Spacers in Glazed Products
ASTM 1996-17 Regarding Insulated Glass Spacers.
This 2017 standard added section A1.9.2 stating tested air spacers making up the insulated laminated unit can be substituted with other spacers.
“A1.9.2 If the conditions in A1.8.1.3 are met, a change in spacer type, shape, or dimension is allowed automatically.”
Section A1.8 states: “A1.8.1.3 Substitutions for insulating glass shall only be made for systems with the impact resistant glazing structurally adhered to the frame or sash glazing leg or bed in the same manner and position as originally tested and approved.”
Section A1.8 states: “A1.8.1.5 Glazing systems typically have a stationary glazing stop that is a permanent part of the frame or sash, or a removable glazing stop (also referred to as a glazing bead), or both. If a removable stop is used, a system can be tested with this stop removed, if it considered to be non-structural and unnecessary to pass the required test.”
***Structurally adhered or structurally glazed is a term used when no glass stops or glazing beads aided in the test. The only way to test is with stops off where the only element holding that glass in place is the sealant. ***
Note: This is assumed no additional testing is performed. ASTM provisions permit one additional sample can be tested to substitute spacers or glass. Contact Engineering Express to further discuss how we can develop a test protocol for your glazing system or provide a review & approval of glass or spacing substitution.
See also ASTM requirements of substituting glass on insulated panels
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Loss of Capacity Due To Welded Aluminum In Railings – Signs – Structures
Regarding any aluminum railing project, it is imperative to understand the life-safety issue that arises when welding an aluminum railing or sign post.
For example, a rail is classified as a life-saving fall guard for any elevation above 31 inches above grade. The aluminum alloys normally used (such as 6061-T6) get their strength from a heat-treatment process. Welding weakens the heat-treated aluminum in the vicinity of the weld, called the heat-affected zone (HAZ), reducing the strength by approximately 40 percent.
Any aluminum specifier or designer must account for the weakened state of the welded members. According to “Specification for Aluminum Structures,” published by The Aluminum Association, if a weld is located within 1 inch of any connection, the designer must analyze the connection with appropriate strength reduction. In general, this means that welds placed within a given distance of the base of a small aluminum rail post will cause the post to fail when the code-required 200-lb load is applied at the top.
It is important to note, however, that the highest load force (due to bending on a railing or wind on a sign) usually occurs at the lower portion of the post. Thus, welded connections at the top of the railing or sign post are usually strong enough to sustain the code-required loading.
We offer the following suggested alternatives when welding a post at the base which must be checked on a case-by-case basis:
- Increase the size and thickness of the railing post
- Provide structural adhesive (e.g. Lord Engineered Adhesives) for the connection as opposed to or in addition to welding components
- Provide structural insert within post (also connected to the base by welding or fasteners)
- Weld pickets to their own ‘box frame’, then mechanically attach frame to posts
- Utilize mechanical connections and do not place any weld within 2′-6″ of bottom of post
- Use an external bracket to further support the post (like a ‘kickstand’ or exterior scroll)
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or to review your site specific project need.
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What’s the difference between aluminum T5 and T6 temper (like 6063-T5 vs 6063-T6 alloy)?
How do you get from a T5 to T6 temper?
Heat treatment is done by raising the alloy temperature to about 980 degrees F and holding it there for about an hour. The purpose of this is to dissolve all the alloying elements in a solid solution in the aluminum. Then the alloy is quenched in water. The purpose of quenching isn’t really to strengthen the alloy, although it does somewhat; it is to cool it rapidly enough to prevent the alloying elements from precipitating on cooling.
The higher the temper within an alloy, the stronger the aluminum (typically)
So we have a solid solution of magnesium, silicon, and other elements in aluminum at room temperature. This is called the T4 temper. If we take this material and heat treat it at a temperature between 325 and 400 degrees F, the alloying elements begin to form ordered arrays of atoms in the aluminum matrix. These arrays are called GP zones, and they strengthen the aluminum considerably. This heat treatment is called aging, which results in material with a T6 temper.
Three commonly used time/temperature cycles are used for aging—one hour at 400 degrees F; five hours at 350 degrees F; and eight hours at 325 degrees F. All are equally effective.
As an aside, you often see designations of T3 and T5 for 6061. What are they? To be considered T4, the aluminum plate (or extrusion, etc.) must be produced, allowed to cool, and then solution treated and quenched. However, aluminum producers quench extrusions right out of the extrusion press while they are still hot. Technically, this produces T3 material, not T4. If you age T3 material, you get T5 material, not T6. Just remember that for our purposes, T3 and T4 materials are the same, as are T5 and T6 materials.
Below you can see a comparison of base strengths between alloys and tempers. Please note that many factors affect the allowable design strengths used in design which goes well beyond this article.
| (KSI) | Ultimate Tensile Strength | Yield Tensile Strength |
| 6063-T5 | 27 | 21 |
| 6063-T6 | 35 | 31 |
| 6001-T6 | 45 | 40 |
- This can improve the corrosion resistance of certain alloys, at the expense of strength. And vice versa.
- The temper of an alloy can affect the appearance of a product after it is anodized. This is due to the combinations of elements within an alloy, which cause the alloy to react differently to the anodizing process.
- Other benefits to consider with alloys & tempers include thermal and electrical conductivity, reflectivity, non-toxicity, recyclability, finish-abilty, high strength-to-weight ratio, ductility, strength at low temperatures, odorless & impermeable, non-magnetic, sound & shock absorption.
Contributing Sources:
https://www.thefabricator.com/article/aluminumwelding/achieving-t6-designation-for-6061
https://www.weerg.com/en/blog/aluminum-properties-and-advantages-of-aluminum-0
The Aluminum Design Manual (2015, IV-26 alloy values)
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What is a canopy awning & which wind forces should I use to design?
A canopy is a structure which provides overhead protection from the elements such as rain, snow, or sunlight. Canopies can be attached to a structure or they can be free standing with their own supports. They can be constructed of a variety of materials including steel, concrete, aluminum, wood, or even fabric. According to ASCE 7, canopies are to be designed to resist wind loads, roof live loads, dead loads, snow loads, rain loads, seismic loads, wind-on-ice loads, and weight of ice loads.
ASCE 7-16 & the 2018 IBC / 2020 FBC
There have been significant developments to wind uplift calculations published in ASCE 7-16. The chapters on this topic were greatly expanded and further explained. It was clear when we first wrote this for ASCE 7-10 that there were many uncertainties & unanswered questions.
ASCE 7-16 provides much more detail for gable vs mono-sloped canopies, clarifications for pressures based on their proximity to the main structure roof, whether the opening below is flow-through or considered enclosed. Also added are adjustments for elevation above sea level.
Engineering Express has summarized these forces in this online calculator. We also publish wind charts to better explain.
Also see this article for more information on why it’s more prudent for engineers to list pressures on canopy and carport performance tables than wind velocity and exposure conditions due to the large matrix of varieties that come with the new calculations.
ASCE 7-10 & the 2015 IBC / 2017 FBC
ASCE 7-10 permits canopies to be designed for wind loading using equations for Open Buildings or Other Structures and Building Appurtenances depending on a variety of factors to be discussed further below. In order to determine the applied wind pressures, ASCE 7-10 has a variety of factors that affect wind loading such as wind speed, risk category, exposure category, flow type, etc. The code requires us to apply all of the aforementioned loads simultaneously, however we are allowed to reduce these loads based upon the load combinations specified in ASCE 7 and design our system based on the least favorable loading scenario applied in all directions.
Along with ASCE 7-10, canopies are designed in conjunction with the governing building code in the municipality in which the project is located [i.e. Florida Building Code Sixth Edition (2017) or the 2012/15/18 International Building Codes] which can contain other design limitations such as allowable member deflections and the newer use of ASCE 7-16 which is forthcoming and has many additions to the below.
Free Standing
Free standing canopies are self-supporting roof systems without walls such as pavilions or walkway covers. These structures are designed using the Open Buildings portion of ASCE 7-10. The wind flow for these structures can either be clear or obstructed depending on obstructions below the roof. Obstructed wind flow is considered when 50% or more of the area below the surface of the roof is composed of objects inhibiting wind flow such as a canopy atop a concrete basin at a wastewater treatment plant. Canopies with less than 50% obstructions below the roof surface would be considered clear. Components & cladding and MWFRS (main wind force resisting system) wind loading are used to design the different elements of these structures. See ASCE 7 Main Wind Force vs. Components & Cladding Explained (MWFRS vs. C&C) for a description on when to apply C&C vs. MWFRS wind loading.
Host Attached
Host attached canopies rely on the superstructure for stability such as suspended canopies, louvered roofs, or fabric awnings. Wind loading on host attached canopies depends on the size of the canopy in relation to the superstructure and its location on the building. There is a new section in ASCE 7-16 called Attached Canopies on Buildings which address wind loading on these structures. However due to the lack of provisions in ASCE 7-10, host attached canopies are designed using the Roof Overhangs sections of the code. When the canopy is small in respect to the building which is common in commercial applications (see image below), the canopy is to be designed as a Roof Overhang Component. Wind tunnel tests (see images below) have confirmed that the entire canopy should be designed using C+C wind loading.
Roof Overhang Components
MWFRS (Main Wind Force Resisting System) Roof Overhangs
When the canopy is similar in size to the building which is common in residential applications (see image below), the canopy is to be designed for MWFRS Roof Overhang wind loading.
Trellises and Sunshades
Trellises and sunshades are porous which allow wind/rain/snow to pass through them and are utilized to reduce sunlight. The porous nature of these roofs doesn’t allow a pressure differential to occur between the opposing faces of the roof surface and therefore are designed using the Other Structures and Building Appurtenances portions of ASCE 7-10. These wind pressures are applied vertically and laterally to the structure to develop the least favorable loading conditions. In addition, trellises and sunshades are required to resist a 300-pound concentrated load placed anywhere on the structure to simulate a maintenance worker standing on the roof surface.
Fabric Awnings
Fabric awnings have provisions which permit the design of the structure with the fabric at a reduced force and the structure without the fabric at the code minimum full design load. From FBC/IBC chapter 31:
Florida Building Code 2020 & 2017:
Design of the framing members shall not be based on removal or repositioning of parts, or the whole, during periods of 75 mph wind velocity.
3105.5.1 Loads. Rigid awnings and canopy shutters shall be designed to resist the loads set forth in Chapter 16 of this code except that structures or parts thereof which are intended to be removed or repositioned during periods of high wind velocity shall be designed in their open or extended position to design pressures based on a basic wind speed of minimum 115 mph, 3-second wind gust with applicable shape factors and to resist not less than 10 psf (478 Pa) roof live load.
ASCE 7-16 requires that “roofs-fabric construction” utilize 5 psf uniform load, and 300 lb concentrated load. Since the IBC and FBC sections seems to override these requirements, it’s acceptable to design with or without the ASCE loads, provided the IBC and FBC sections are followed strictly (Table 4.3-1).
From FBC (2014)
3105.4.2 Design of the structural framing members shall be based on rational analysis, using the applicable wind loads of Chapter 16 as shown below.
3105.4.2.1 The wind design loads for any fabric or membrane-covered structure designed with a quick removal or breakaway membrane or fabric at wind velocities of 75 mph, shall be based on the following criteria:
1. Minimum wind speed 105 mph.
2. Exposure Category B, C or D as defined in Chapter 16.
3105.4.2.2 The wind design loads for any fabric or membrane covered structure designed with a permanent or non-removable fabric or membrane, shall be based on the following criteria:
1. Minimum wind speed velocity as required in Chapter 16, using Figure 1609C.
2. Exposure B, C or D as defined in Chapter 16.
3105.4.3 The fabric portions of awnings and fabric-covered frames shall be securely laced, tied or otherwise fastened to the frame; no rafter or front bar will be permitted in pockets; and in no case shall a rolling curtain be caused to operate over a canopy frame.
From INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE (2012, 2015 & 2018):
RETRACTABLE AWNING.
3105.3 Design and construction. Awnings and canopies shall be designed and constructed to withstand wind or other lateral loads and live loads as required by Chapter 16 with due allowance for shape, open construction and similar features that relieve the pressures or loads.
Article provided & updated by Zachary A. Rubin, PE. Additional fabric commentary by F. Bennardo PE