Bucket Lists for Structural Engineers and Some Resources for Helping Cross Post-Frame Off Your List David Finkenbinder Bucket lists are mentioned regularly today, which got me to thinking – what about a bucket list for structural engineers? ASCE and others have put together lists of engineering wonders of the modern world, so those seem like a good start for sights to see. But for a practitioner, I’d... Read More September 2019 Issue #11242 Page 108
Flame Spread and Code Conformance Guides for Wood Updated Robert Glowinski The work the American Wood Council (AWC) carries out makes it easier for code officials, engineers, designers, and builders to ensure that wood products are used in accordance with the most up-to-date consensus-based building codes. Two AWC publications that support the code and design community... Read More August 2019 Issue #11241 Page 82
Post Frame at a Crossroads—Is This the 11th Hour for the Industry? Sharon Thatcher For several years, there has been a foreboding trend in the post-frame industry: the disappearance of post-frame engineers. At once a strong coalition of devoted proponents who worked diligently on both personal and professional time to promote the industry through research, education and... Read More July 2019 Issue #11240 Page 56
Opening the Lines of Communication with the Fire Service Robert Glowinski Last year’s passage of Tall Mass Timber code provisions for inclusion in the 2021 International Code Council’s International Building Code will usher in a new era in construction, allowing for tall mass timber buildings to be constructed up to 18 stories. With these new... Read More July 2019 Issue #11240 Page 82
Modular Construction Makes Inroads in Multi-Family Sector Tom Hardiman Permanent modular buildings are considered real property, built to the same building codes and requirements as site-built structures, and can be financed, sold, and depreciated in a similar manner. As such, the markets for permanent modular construction are similar to the markets for site-built... Read More July 2019 Issue #11240 Page 86
All Things Wood: The Critical Job of Truss Builders Frank Woeste Last month’s fine article by Glenn Traylor, “How Do I Choose Which Plates for a Critical Plate Inspection?”, reminded me of investigative experiences I’ve had throughout my career. The work of truss builders is extremely important, as evidenced by instances of truss... Read More June 2019 Issue #11239 Page 56
AWC Celebrates Building Safety Month Robert Glowinski With environmental sustainability becoming the focal point of national discourse, and extreme weather intensifying and occurring more frequently, our buildings need to be sustainable and resilient to mitigate damage to both the built environment and surrounding ecosystem. Researchers are... Read More May 2019 Issue #11238 Page 76
Steps to Minimize Snow Load Failures Mike Momb Early every year, the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) holds its annual Frame Building Expo—where thousands of post-frame builders, design professionals, and vendors meet for three days filled with break-out sessions, guest presenters, and, of course, a trade show. In... Read More April 2019 Issue #11237 Page 44
All Things Wood: IBC Balcony Changes Spur “Best Practice” Design Recommendations Frank Woeste Because of their limited structural redundancy and exposure to weather, cantilevered balconies require special attention by design professionals, contractors, permitting and inspection departments, and owners in-service. As shown in the photos, modern wood-framed, multi-family projects often... Read More April 2019 Issue #11237 Page 60
AWC Releases 2015 Deck Guide in Spanish Robert Glowinski Spring is upon us. Construction is ramping up nationwide. And, as we get ready to spend more time in our favorite outdoor spaces and decks, we must ensure they are safe for gatherings with family and friends. Just in time for the nicer weather, and the influx of construction workers, the... Read More April 2019 Issue #11237