Residential & Commercial Glazing Differences & Common Terms 101 Engineering Express is typically asked what the difference between residential & commercial glazing & how we help each industry. Read below for answers to the most common questions & terms. Commercial Glazing What is Commercial Glazing? This generally involves the framing systems used …
Residential & Commercial Terms & Engineering Design Differences 101 Read More »
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 …
What are Limitations of Small & Large Missile Impact Designs? Read More »
From ASCE 7 (16, 10 & previous standards): The “Least Horizontal Dimension” can be taken as the shortest possible distance that can be taken between two parallel lines that fully encompass the building The Least Horizontal Dimension is further demonstrated as follows: Where ‘B’ is the Least Horizontal Dimension. For further reference, see our article …
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 which 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 »
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 …
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 »
Product Approvals for building components are the general rule in Florida. Building officials, architects, insurance companies, even homeowners ask for them all the time, frequently refusing permits, insurance discounts, and product installations. So what is the legal ruling on when and if product approvals are required for this product? The Florida Building Code requires only …
Case Study: Phantom Screens – Is a Florida Product Approval Required? Read More »
Masonry openings in buildings are frequently not exact and are referred to as rough openings for that reason. When window products are placed into openings, they often need to be shimmed into place to properly fit the opening. When a large amount of shimming is required, 1x or 2x pieces of wood are utilized and …
What is a window or door buck – why are they used – when do they need to be anchored? Read More »
