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Engineering Tiki Huts in Florida: Tribal Exemption Limits and Code-Compliant Design
Engineering Tiki Huts in Florida: Tribal Exemption Limits and Code-Compliant Design Florida recognizes an exemption allowing Native American…
Virtual inspections for PEs in U.S. buildings
Virtual inspections for PEs in U.S. buildings Virtual inspections moved from a pandemic workaround to a mainstream option…
Gable End Bracing and the FORTIFIED Program
Gable End Bracing and the FORTIFIED Program Gable end walls are a well-documented weak point in high-wind events.…
Roof Deck Paver Systems on Pedestals: A Wind Uplift Design Overview
Pedestal-Supported Roof Paver Systems Roof paver systems installed on plastic pedestals are increasingly used to provide accessible walkways,…
Understanding The Material Cost Saving of Using An Engineering Express Calculator
See this article to help illustrate the significant time and cost savings of accessing engineering through an Engineering…
Understanding Slenderness in Steel and Aluminum Members: Why Shape and Thickness Matter
Understanding Slenderness in Steel and Aluminum Members Bigger does not always mean stronger. In steel and aluminum design,…
Window and Door Shimming: Code Requirements and Engineering Reality
Window and Door Shimming: Code Requirements and Engineering Reality Improper shimming is a structural installation defect, not a…
Reinforcing Steel in Footings, Pads, and Equipment Foundations
Reinforcing Steel in Footings, Pads, and Equipment Foundations Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials…
The Easiest Way To Get a Site Plan or Floor Plan For Your Project – Using Mysiteplan.com
How To Get A Site Plan For Your Project - The Easy Way (Or A Floor Plan) Engineering…
Building Component Design Discovery Phase And The Following Engineering Process Explained
About Engineering Express's Building Component Design Process Analyzing and engineering building products is complex— But it doesn’t have…
How To Submit A Request For An Engineering Evaluation of Doors and Other Openings For Certification
Determining Pressure Ratings For Doors (or Windows) With Alternate Components Exterior doors exposed to weather are approved to…
ASCE 24-24 Explained: What’s New in Flood-Resistant Design for 2024 Building Codes
ASCE 24-2024 - Flood-Resistant Design for 2024 Building Codes The newly released ASCE 24-24, Flood Resistant Design and…
Understanding the 3 Types of Glazing Supports
See this article for a breakdown of the three most common types of window / door / glazing…
FAQ: Where can I find the flood zone my house or project is in?
How To Find Your Flood Zone Understanding your property’s flood risk is essential for design, construction, insurance, and…
Pool Safety Barriers: What Building Codes Require
Why Pool Safety Requirements Matter All residential swimming pools must meet specific safety requirements designed to prevent accidents…
How Site-Specific Project Design Fees Are Determined At Engineering Express
How We Determine Site-Specific Project Design Fees Engineering Express sends thousands of project quotes every year. Here's a summary…
Differences Between Designing a Railing For General Use vs. Rooftop Mechanical Equipment
Installing A Railing Around Mechanical Equipment? It could be easier than you think. Railings around mechanical equipment, as…
Understanding the Topographic Factor in Wind Design – ASCE 7 Chapter 26.8 Explained
Why Topography Matters in Wind Design Not all building sites are flat. When a structure is located near…
When Does a Florida Or Miami Dade NOA Product Approval Expire?
Florida & Miami Dade Have Similar Expiration Rules Let's Break Them Down 1: Building Code Expiration Date In…
Glass Aspect Ratio Limitations in Florida’s High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ)
When A Glazed Opening Isn't Exactly Square Often times a glazing product is approved for large missile impact,…
Understanding Fence Design: Key Considerations and Code Requirements
Fences - An Overview Fences serve multiple purposes, from enhancing privacy and security to defining property boundaries and…
Guide To Mechanical Unit Permits and Engineering Requirements In Florida & The US
Mechanical Equipment Design - A National Requirement Generally speaking, building codes are national in nature, but are adopted…
FAQ: I’m a manufacturer and new client of Engineering Express. How does the online plan store process work for my products?
Manufacturers work with Engineering Express to create performance evaluations, which are distributed using our online Plan Store. This…
Embedding Aluminum: How to Safely Combine It with Concrete, Steel, and Other Metals
Aluminum is a widely used material in construction due to its strength and lightweight nature.However, when aluminum comes…
The Ultimate Guide To Creating A Window – Door Retrofit Permit Package In South Florida & Beyond
How To Apply For A Retrofit Window-Door-Garage Door Permit In South Florida & Beyond Dade, Broward & Palm…
How To Calculate Porosity of a Louver – Sign – Fence Per ASCE 7
Porosity - How 'Open' A Surface Is - Explained The porosity of open structures is defined in ASCE-7…
How To Determine Uplift Reactions For Canopies-Carports-Pergolas
Canopies & Wind Uplift - An Introduction First, Understand ThisA backyard canopy or pergola, trellis, or a lightweight…
What wind speed should I use for my project?
How To Determine The Design Wind Speed For Your Project To determine the wind speed to use for…
Designing Outdoor Structures with Closed Louvers: Key Risks to Consider
When designing outdoor structures with louvers, it’s important to understand the potential risks of keeping the louvers in…
How To Obtain a Building Permit
The journey from project idea to completion is not just about building; it’s about understanding construction codes and…
Understanding Ice – Icing In Building Products Infrastructure
When designing structural components, a variety of environmental factors need to be taken into account depending on the…
What Are Florida Building Code Declaratory Statements And Where Can I Find And Submit Them?
Binding Florida Code Interpretations As in other states, Florida's Building Code is published on a regular cycle.In Florida,…
Florida Product Approval Submittal Cutoff Dates – Public Comment Process – Pro Tips
Key Dates In The Florida Product Approval Submittal Process The Florida Product Approval program follows a structured review…
What is a delegate engineer and what are their responsibilities
What is a Delegate Engineer? A Delegate Engineer is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) entrusted with a defined…
Eave Height and Mean Roof Height – Per ASCE 7 – Building Codes
ASCE Mean Roof Height - An Introduction A building's height plays a large role in calculating the magnitude…
Concrete Anchor Design Considerations
When designing anchored concrete connections, more anchors won’t always make for a stronger connection. Anchor material, design, strength,…
Open, Closed, Partially Open, and Partially Enclosed Structures.
Open, Closed, Partially Open & Partially Enclosed Structures When designing buildings subject to wind loads (e.g., according to…
ASCE 7 Risk Categories Explained
ASCE 7 Risk Category Summary What Are The ASCE-7 Risk Categories? ASCE 7 provides the information needed to…
FAQ Is the 7th 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, 2024, then the 7th Edition…
What’s A Miami Dade Renewal Process?
What's A Miami Dade Renewal Process? A Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA) is valid for five years from…
PRODUCT APPROVALS ARE NOT ALWAYS REQUIRED! HERE’S WHY:
3 Myths About Product Approval Requirements Background Product evaluations (also referred to as “product approvals”, “ICC reports”, Miami…
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…
FAQ 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…
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…
*** Find More Help With Product Approvals Here ***
Find more general help with Florida & Miami-Dade Product Approvals by visitingthe support articles of EngineeringPlans.com. SEARCH PRODUCT…
What’s the difference between ground and roof snow load for patio covers?
When designing outdoor structures like patio covers, one of the most critical factors to consider is the ability…
Performance Limitations for Mechanical Equipment & TER Certifications
Summary of Building Code & Research Intent The intent & provisions of the 2018 International Building Code (IBC),…
Impact Requirements For Mechanical Equipment in the Florida Building Code & For Essential Facilities
Mechanical Equipment - Does It Need To Qualify For Large Missile Impact? Questions frequently arise as to what…
Snow Build-Over On Pergolas, Trellises & Mechanically Louvered Roofs (Cornice Effect)
Beware of Snow Buildup On Open Roof Areas An important and frequently overlooked requirement for checking snow loads…
Sunroom Terminology
The following is a summary of sunroom-related terms provided courtesy of the National Sunroom Association. Click Here…
Pros and Cons of Obtaining a Florida Statewide Approval Vs A Miami Dade Approval and how a TER fits in
Which Florida Approval Is Right for You? Pros and Cons of FSA, NOA, and TER Two common means…
How Do I Get Approval To Substitute Glass Type-Interlayer On My Product Evaluation?
If you are a manufacturer with a Florida or Miami Dade Approval, or if you are trying to…
Door and Hardware Online Glossary
Thanks to our partners at ASSA ABLOY, we're happy to pass along this helpful glossary of industry lingo.…
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…
FAQ How can I pay for something custom that’s not a store product or something quoted?
There are occasions where we may customize something for you that doesn't exactly fit a store product but…
ASCE 7 WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORIES AND HOW EXPOSURE ‘D’ WORKS
Wind Exposure Category OverviewASCE-7 is the governing referenced standard for design loads on buildings & other structures for…
FAQ Search our AC model Database
Click Here to access our model database tool. You can filter by your AC brand, model, and number…
AC Model TER Search Database
Use this tool to search and find the applicable Technical Evaluation Report for your installation. [model_search]
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…
FAQ The building department is asking for design wind speed – risk category – exposure – address on my plan – performance evaluation – TER What do I tell them?
In the case of Performance Evaluation Plans and Technical Evaluation Reports, product evaluations, master plans, and technical evaluation…
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…
FAQ 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…
How To Use Performance Evaluations – TER’s – Calculator Reports Purchased From Engineering Express
READ BELOW BEFORE USING NON SITE-SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONSFROM ENGINEERING EXPRESS FOR YOUR PROJECT General Information About Non Site-Specific…
What are editorial changes to products registered in the Florida Product Approval System?
Editorial changes are permitted within the state product approval system when an approved product is modified but no…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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.…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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
FAQ How can clients in the South Florida area save money on shipping fees on project hardcopy deliveries?
If you are a frequent buyer in the South Florida area, consider merging your orders into a single…
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…
FAQ 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 &…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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
FAQ 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.
FAQ I need to create an NOA / product approval for my product. What’s the process?
See Our Guide To Obtaining The Right Product Approval For You Visit The Guide Summary Of The Guide…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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.
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ I’d like to use an EFT (electronic funds transfer) or ACH instead of a credit card. Can you help with that?
See our Pay Page or contact our office for more information.
FAQ 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/…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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.
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ How can I modify an existing quote request placed through ExpressPass?
Please contact our project manager through your ExpressPass dashboard
FAQ 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…
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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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.…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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 &…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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.
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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,…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
FAQ 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…
Residential & Commercial Terms & Engineering Design Differences 101
Residential & Commercial Glazing Differences & Common Terms 101 Engineering Express is typically asked what the difference…
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…
Subscription Services Offered by Engineering Express
About Our Calculator Subscription Plans We Create Innovative Tools To Help You Estimate - Optimize - Get Sealed…
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,…
About Door Product Pressure Ratings and Water Infiltration
Why Door & Window Wind Pressure Ratings Are Not What They Appear Your installation may NOT be rated…
Instructions for proper use of rooftop equipment wind pressure calculator
HELP PAGE For the Engineering Express®Rooftop Equipment Wind Pressure CalculatorNote: See Limitations & Conditions of Use at the…
ASCE 7 Wall Zones 4 & 5 Explained
Understanding Wall Zones 4 & 5 Wind speed converts to wind pressure using a formula with many variables.There…
Mean Roof Height (ASCE 7)
Per ASCE 7, the Mean Roof Height (h) is defined as the average of the roof eave height and…
What are The Span Limitations of Large Missile Impact Doors – Windows – Shutters?
Size Limitations For Impact Rated Products A Frequent question is what are the span, height, pressure, and installation…
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…
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…
About ASTM E1996 Missile Levels & Wind Zone 4
Overview of Missile Impact Levels As adopted in the 2023 Florida Building Code and the 2021 International Building…
What are the requirements for using ASTM Missile Level E in Florida and the US?
Understanding Missile Level E Requirements in Florida When it comes to hurricane protection, not all impact ratings are…
ASCE 7 Least Horizontal Dimension – Minimum Building Width
From ASCE 7 (ASCE 7-22,16, 10 & previous standards): The "Least Horizontal Dimension" can be taken as…
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…
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…
ASCE 7 Basic Wind Speed
Per definition by ASCE 7-22, ASCE 7-16 & ASCE 7-10, Section 26.2 is defined as: BASIC WIND…
About ASCE 7’s Directionality Factor Kd
The directionality factor (Kd) used in the ASCE 7 wind load provisions for components and cladding is a…
Understanding Canopies: Design and Load Considerations
A canopy is an overhead structure that offers protection from weather elements like rain, snow, and sunlight.Canopies can…
The Updated Saffir-Simpson Scale
First, it needs to be said that there is a complicated formula that converts wind velocity to wind…
Is A Top Rail Required For A Glass Railing?
Glass Railings - The Next Big Thing Aesthetically pleasing, clean and one of the biggest architectural trends, the…
About AAMA 2100 and Sunroom Categories
Sunrooms across the US are categorized into 5 categories. AAMA published these in their AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100-12 publication which…
How to Avoid Contact With Aluminum & Dissimilar Metals
This is provided to inform clients of the dissimilar metal protection requirements of the 2015 Aluminum Design Manual,…
Why are spacing, edge distance, and embedment important for concrete anchors?
Why are spacing, edge distance, and embedment important for concrete anchors? Anchors transfer loads into concrete, making them…
Requirements of Plan Reviewers When Denying Permits & Alternate Methods FBC-IBC Section 104.11
Florida Statute 555.79(1)(a) lists the requirements and penalties of building plan reviewers when they issue comments and deny…
Is Steel or Reinforcing or Fibermesh Required in Posts & Footings of Building Components?
INTRODUCTION The main purpose foundations serve is to distribute and resist the forces or loads experienced by the…
ASCE 7 Main Wind Force vs. Components & Cladding Explained (MWFRS vs. C&C)
ASCE 7 separates wind loading into three types: Main Wind Force Resisting System (MWFRS), Components and Cladding (C&C),…
Types of At-Grade Footings Explained
Choosing the Right Footing for Patios, Pergolas, and Sunrooms Every great structure begins below the surface. For sunrooms,…
1 Hour Fire Rating For Roof vs Wall
Many ask if there's a difference between a 1 hour fire rating on a wall product vs a…
ASTM, SEI, ISO Fastener Material Properties and Specifications
Here is a list of fastener markings for various grades of anchors. Information is reprinted courtesy of…
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EXPRESSPASS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EXPRESSPASS What is ExpressPass? ExpressPass is designed to help businesses get the certified designs…
CHECKLIST FOR SCREENED ENCLOSURES, OPEN, & ENCLOSED PATIOS – SUNROOMS
CHECKLIST OF DESIGN ITEMS NEEDED FOR SCREENED ENCLOSURES, OPEN, & ENCLOSED PATIOS, PERGOLAS & SUNROOMS Engineering Express provides…
Is a large missile impact window or door automatically approved for small missile impact?
Overview Changes to the 2020 Florida Building Code for Porous Impact Protection Devices Porous Impact Protective Systems: ASTM…
What Seismic area is my location?
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…
Miami Dade NOA Revision vs Renewal & Fees Explained
Miami Dade Renewal Or Revision? Miami-Dade Product Control follows distinct procedures for renewing and revising a Notice of…
What wind information is required for construction documents?
From the 5th, 6th &7th Edition of the Florida Building Code (2014, 2017, 2020) section 1603.1.4 as well…
Can you substitute spacers for insulating glass units (IGU)?
The question of whether or not an installer can substitute the spacer that separates the outer from the…
About Plan Store Tokens
About Engineering Express Plan Store Tokens Why Tokens? Creating a tokens-based system solves a growing list of client pain…
How to Find Wind Speed & Snow Using the ASCE and ATC Hazards Tools by Location Websites
The 2 Ways To Find Wind Speed, Snow & Related Values For Projects in the US There are…
What are porosity and closure angles when defining a porous building opening?
Explanation: In the event of a high wind event, it is the concern of building codes ASCE-7 and…
Roof Mounted Equipment Height Requirements
In accordance with FBC 2020 (7th Edition), the following clearance below raised roof mounted mechanical units applies inside…
About The UL 325 Safety Standard for Gate Operators
The UL 325 is a safety standard for door, drapery, gate, louver, and window operators and systems. The…
About Lag Bolts-Screws In Wood – Size – Pullout – Shear
Lag screws are some of the toughest types of screws available. When it comes to fastening heavy materials…
ASCE Wind Speed Risk Category To Use with Signs – Fences & Building Components On-Off Buildings
This topic has been merged with our main ASCE 7 Risk Category Knowledge Base Article. See this page…
Test Laboratories
Tet laboratories have been combined into our Online Directory.The information contained herein is offered as an unbiased list…
Permit Runners in South Florida To Consider
The information contained herein is offered as an unbiased list of firms and services that compliment the services…
Directory of Firms We Work With & Refer Out To
The information contained herein is offered as an unbiased list of firms and services that complement the services…
Glossary of Engineering Terms
Glossary of Building Component Engineering Terms & Abbreviations These terms are published by Engineering Express to coincide with…
Egress Emergency Escape Requirements for Windows
Egress & Emergency Escape Requirements for Windows In a fire or other emergency, the right window can be…
Metal Fasteners UNC vs Spaced Thread
Overview Metal fastening is designed per the requirements of the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC): Specification for…
Handrail and Guardrail Design Guidelines
What To Know When Designing & Installing Handrails & Guards About Stair Requirements The International Residential Code (IRC) …
2020 FBC Product Evaluation Updates
There are many updates to the Florida Building Code 7th Edition (2020), but several of them directly impact…
Proof Florida Product Approvals and NOA’s Don’t Require The Original Engineering Seal
Original FL Engineer Seals Are Not Required On Product Approvals. Here's the proof. Engineering Express frequently gets asked…
Technical Evaluation Report – TER – Types of Product Evaluations Typically Performed By Engineering Express
Engineering Express provides structural design evaluations of various types of mechanical equipment exposed to weather. There are four…
Florida Statewide Approvals (FSA) – Quality Assurance and Validator Requirements
Florida Statewide Approvals (FSA): Validator & Quality Assurance Requirements Florida’s Statewide Product Approval (FSA) system ensures that every…
Perforated Design Method vs. Segmented Design Methods for Shear Walls
Perforated Design Method vs. Segmented Design Methods for Shear Walls The International Building Code (2018) defines a…
Starter List in Evaluating Your Building Component For Product Approvals & TER’s
The Ultimate Starter Checklist for Evaluating Your Building Component Before a product can be approved, installed, or even…
Drafting Guidelines & Drawing Tool for Engineering Express Plan Submissions
Engineering Express Drafting Shop Drawings – Standards, Tips & Tricks Use our simple tool to create a quick…
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…
Flood Engineering Glossary
FLOOD GLOSSARY The following is provided as a curated summary of terms taken from the referenced standards that…
Flood Resistant Design & Floodproofing of Buildings
An engineer's walk through of the design requirements for flood resistant design of building components With Engineering Express's…
What is the HVHZ – High Velocity Hurricane Zone – in Florida?
The High Velocity Hurricane Zone (or HVHZ) in Florida encompasses only Miami-Dade And Broward Counties. It is a…
Product Performance Evaluations & TER’s Explained
What is a Product Performance Evaluation & A TER? A product performance evaluation or TER (Technical Evaluation Report)…
What are alteration levels in construction and how do they relate to delegate engineers?
(2020 Florida Existing Building Code Section 503) (adopted by use of IBC 2018 with amendments, definitions apply nationwide)…
Wind Speed vs. Wind Pressure Explained
Many don’t understand how wind works & state that a product is rated to a specific wind speed. …
What is the Minimum Roof Slope for Metal Panels and other Roof Types?
The minimum roof slope requirement for metal panels varies depending on panel connection conditions. The required roof slope…
TEK Sheet Metal Screws (SMS) – About – Sizes – Gauges
Tek® screws have become an essential tool in construction and manufacturing, valued for their self-drilling capabilities that simplify…
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…
Designing Interior Glass? Here are some engineering code items to consider
Interior Glass: Not Just For Looks When designing interior glass, you must consider both structural concerns and code…
When is an Engineer Seal Required, Why Do We Write ‘Draft’ on Unsealed Work, And About Digital Seals
In Florida (as well as mast all states):1. If an engineer produces a drawing that is not a…
Case Study: Phantom Screens – Is a Florida Product Approval Required?
Product Approvals for building components are the general rule in Florida. Building officials, architects, insurance companies, even homeowners…
Where To Buy Extrusions & Parts
We're frequently asked by our clients where they can purchase many of the products specified in our plans.…
Frost Protection For Concrete Footings On Grade – Heave Explained
Footings Move When Soil Freezes. Let's Explain. Building codes describe the design requirements of shallow foundations in regions…
Can a Building Inspector or Plan Reviewer Deny The Use of a TER or Performance Evaluation?
Have You Been Denied For A Building Permit Using One Of Our TER's? Plan reviewers have the authority…
Florida Product Approval and Miami Dade NOA Requirements
Florida Product Approval & Miami-Dade NOA : What You Need to Know Florida Building Code (FBC) vs International…
FAQ: What do I do if a TER or Generic Performance Evaluation isn’t approved for a permit?
Why Your TER Might Get Rejected — and How to Fix It A Technical Evaluation Report (TER) is…
How do I get a Certified TER or Master Plan Sheet?
What's a TER & Master Plan? TER's or Technical Evaluation Reports (formally 'Master Plans') are Evaluation Reports That…
What Doesn’t A Technical Evaluation Report (TER) or Product Evaluation Do?
What's A TER? A TER, or Technical Evaluation Report, are engineer-certified, code-compliant evaluation of a building products performance…
What is a TER and how is it used for permitting?
TER - Technical Evaluation Report (Product Performance Evaluation) Explained A TER or Technical Evaluation Report, is an engineering…
Procedure For Calculating Aluminum Box Beams For Bending
Per the Aluminum Design Manual (ADM) 2015, the allowable bending stress of round tubes shall be determined for…
What’s the minimum penetration for lag screws into wood?
Per the 2015 National Design Specification for Wood Construction (NDS 2015), section 12.1.4.6, the minimum length of lag…
Minimum Edge Distance Requirements for Bolts & Screws in Metal (Steel & Aluminum)
Minimum Edge Distance Requirements for Bolts & Screws in Metal (Steel & Aluminum) Proper edge distance is critical…
What’s the dimensional difference between a pipe and a tube?
There is often confusion as to which size product a client actually needs – Pipe Size or OD Tubing…
Can an engineer design alternate anchorage for a Florida product approval or other product evaluation?
Can an engineer design alternate anchorage for a Florida product approval or other product evaluation? Say you have…
Enclosed Structures Explained
Enclosed Structures Explained Determining whether a structure is classified as an enclosed building is a key step in…
Open Structures Explained
Open Structures Explained Determining if a structure qualifies as an open building is a fundamental step in wind…
Partially Enclosed Structures Explained
Partially Enclosed Structures Explained Understanding whether a building is partially enclosed is a critical step in wind design.…
How do I calculate the effective opening area on window or door products? – What opening area should be used for wind pressure determination on a multi-panel product?
Understanding The 'Effective Opening Area' For Wind Pressure Design The theory goes that Mother Nature cannot blow her…
The One-Third (1/3) Stress Increase: Where Is It Now?
While the 1/3 stress increase is all but a memory, this article explains its history & origin. The…
Florida Engineers Do Not Have To File A Notice To Owner To Lien A Property
First, What is a Notice To Owner (NTO)? This notice alerts a homeowner in Florida that someone has…
What is a window or door buck
What Is A Window Or Door Buck? Openings in buildings are frequently not exact and are referred to…
Did the wind loading requirements change for rooftop structures for ASCE 7-22 – ASCE 7-16 & The Florida Building Code?
Regarding ASCE 7-16 & the 2020 Florida Building Code (FBC) Also Applies for ASCE 7-22 & 2023 Florida…
Should a professional utilize the ASD (Allowable Stress Design) method or the LRFD (Load Resistance Factored Design) method when calculating the required wind pressure for use with tested-approved systems?
What's The Difference Between ASD & LRFD Design? Put in layman's terms, think of a wood plank designed…