Our interpretations of the many codes and standards in our engineering industry
Florida Statute 555.79(1)(a) lists the requirements and penalties of building plan reviewers when they issue comments and deny permit applications. Here’s an excerpt from that section with a link to the source file here: FS 553.79 Permits; applications; issuance; inspections.— (1)(a) … Whenever a permit required under this section is denied or revoked because the plan, or …
INTRODUCTION The main purpose foundations serve is to distribute and resist the forces or loads experienced by the host structure due to wind, rain, snow, seismic, & other load conditions. When it comes to building components such as generators, signs, and fences the code leaves a gray area for foundation design. This happens because most …
ASCE 7 separates wind loading into three types: Main Wind Force Resisting System (MWFRS), Components and Cladding (C&C), and Other Structures and Building Appurtenances. MWFRS is defined as “(a)n assemblage of structural elements to provide support and stability for the overall structure.” Typically, members that receive loading from two surfaces are designed to resist MWFRS …
ASCE 7 Main Wind Force vs. Components & Cladding Explained (MWFRS vs. C&C) Read More »
Many ask if there’s a difference between a 1 hour fire rating on a wall product vs a 1 hour fire rating on a roof product. If you think about it, fire (AKA heat) does behave differently as it rises vs. spreads. In fact, there is a difference: In the Florida Building Code (2020), & …
Here is a list of fastener markings for various grades of anchors. Information is reprinted courtesy of American Fastener FASTENER GRADE MARK (SCROLL DOWN TO SEE A CHART OF MARKINGS ON THE FASTENER TO IDENTIFY THEM) Identification Grade Mark Specification Fastener Description Material Nominal Size Range (in.) Mechanical Properties Proof Load(psi) Yield StrengthMin (psi) …
ASTM, SEI, ISO Fastener Material Properties and Specifications Read More »
Overview Changes to the 2020 Florida Building Code for Porous Impact Protection Devices Porous Impact Protective Systems: ASTM E1996-12A brought a significant change to Porous Impact Protective Systems (PIPS). A Porous Impact Protective System is defined as “An assembly whose aggregate open area exceeds 10% of its projected surface area”. Prior to ASTM E1996-12A, any …
Here are some useful sites to check the seismic criteria for a location: https://www.fema.gov/earthquake-hazard-maps https://earthquake.usgs.gov/hazards/designmaps/ – USGS https://seismicmaps.org/ https://www.seaoc.org/page/seismicdesignmaptool– Structural Engineer Association of California
Miami Dade Renewal Or Revision? Miami-Dade Product Control follows distinct procedures for renewing and revising a Notice of Acceptance (NOA). Here’s how they differ in scope and requirements. Renewing A Miami-Dade NOA Revising An Existing Miami Dade NOA Renewing a Miami-Dade NOA extends the product’s expiration date, typically for up to five years. This process …
Miami Dade NOA Revision vs Renewal & Fees Explained Read More »
From the 5th, 6th &7th Edition of the Florida Building Code (2014, 2017, 2020) section 1603.1.4 as well as from section 1603.1.4. of the 2012, 2015, & 2018 International Building Code, construction documents shall show the following: Ultimate design wind speed, Vult (3-second gust), miles per hour and nominal design wind speed (Vasd) as …
What wind information is required for construction documents? Read More »
The question of whether or not an installer can substitute the spacer that separates the outer from the inner glazing on an insulating glass unit is common in the industry and has far-reaching implications. Our research (subject to independent verification is as follows): ASTM E-1996-17 section A1.9.2 (referenced in the 7th Edition Florida Building Code …
Can you substitute spacers for insulating glass units (IGU)? Read More »
The 2 Ways To Find Wind Speed, Snow & Related Values For Projects in the US There are currently two websites as of January 2024 that allow access to finding a location’s ASCE wind speed, snow load, as well as other code minimum requirements. This article helps you find and navigate each site. Method 1: …
How to Find Wind Speed & Snow Using the ASCE and ATC Hazards Tools by Location Websites Read More »
Explanation: In the event of a high wind event, it is the concern of building codes ASCE-7 and ASTM specifications that windows and doors don’t fail and develop an opening breach in the building. An opening would allow more wind to enter the structure and pressurize the inside of the building, leading to other doors …
What are porosity and closure angles when defining a porous building opening? Read More »
In accordance with FBC 2020 (7th Edition), the following clearance below raised roof mounted mechanical units applies inside & outside the HVHZ*: WIDTH** OF MECHANICAL UNIT MINIMUM CLEARANCE ABOVE SURFACES FBC 1510.10 FBC 1522.3 Outside HVHZ Inside HVHZ Height < 24″ < 24″ 14″ 24″ < 36″ 25″ < 36″ 18″ 36″ < 48″ 37″ …
The UL 325 is a safety standard for door, drapery, gate, louver, and window operators and systems. The standard was developed by underwriters laboratories Inc. in an open non-exclusionary process for manufacturers to use in designing products. This standard provides minimum requirements for the manufacture and installation of gate operators. It applies to electric operators …
About The UL 325 Safety Standard for Gate Operators Read More »
Egress & Emergency Escape Requirements for Windows In a fire or other emergency, the right window can be the fastest way to safety. That’s why egress windows are required: they make sure every bedroom or living space has a quick, dependable escape route. What Is an Egress Window? An egress window is more than a …
Egress Emergency Escape Requirements for Windows Read More »
Overview Metal fastening is designed per the requirements of the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC): Specification for Structural Steel Buildings in conjunction with the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA): TIR-A9-14 Design Guide for Metal Cladding Fasteners. Types The two most common types of fastener threads used in construction are Unified Coarse Thread (UNC) more …
