For construction business owners, the difference between a company that thrives and one that merely survives often comes down to one thing: the ability to set and execute long-term goals. Industry experts have identified that clear communication and strategic planning are the bedrock of successful construction businesses. This guide explores how construction firm leadership transforms […]
Air barriers are critical components of modern building envelopes, responsible for controlling uncontrolled airflow through the building enclosure. However, an air barrier system is only as strong as its weakest connection. While membrane selection and material specifications receive significant attention during design, the real determinant of long-term performance lies in the quality of tie-ins at
The junction where an air barrier meets a window opening is one of the most failure-prone details in modern building enclosure design. Despite accounting for a small fraction of the total wall surface area, fenestration penetrations are responsible for a disproportionate share of air leakage, thermal bridging, and moisture intrusion problems. Understanding how to properly
Closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (ccSPF) has become one of the most widely specified insulation materials in modern building envelopes because it combines air barrier, vapor barrier, and thermal barrier functions in a single application. When installed correctly, it delivers exceptional R-values and helps buildings achieve stringent energy code targets. However, post-installation shrinkage remains a persistent
Historic buildings present unique challenges when it comes to maintaining their original character while ensuring long-term durability. One of the most overlooked yet critical components of historic building envelopes is the gutter system. The historic wood box gutter, a feature found in many 19th and early 20th century structures, frequently fails when reproduced with modern
Understanding Moisture Risks in Tall Wood Buildings As the construction industry embraces mass timber for taller structures, managing moisture has become a critical concern for building professionals. Tall wood buildings offer significant environmental and aesthetic benefits, but they also introduce unique challenges related to moisture control that differ substantially from low-rise wood frame construction. The
The Biden-Harris Administration has introduced the first-ever Federal Building Performance Standard, setting an ambitious goal to cut energy use and electrify equipment in 30 percent of federally owned building space by 2030. For building owners, developers, and contractors, this marks a significant shift in how buildings will be designed, retrofitted, and operated. Understanding these new
Adaptive reuse has emerged as one of the most impactful strategies in contemporary construction, allowing building professionals to breathe new life into underutilized structures while preserving the architectural character of urban neighborhoods. A compelling example is the transformation of two vacant buildings at 99 Missouri Street in San Francisco into the Blu Dot furniture showroom,
Stainless steel is one of the most widely specified materials in modern building construction, prized for its corrosion resistance, aesthetic appeal, and structural performance. However, the common assumption that stainless steel will never corrode or stain is a costly misconception. The phrase “stain-less” does not mean “stain-zero,” and specifying the wrong alloy for a given
Bird-safe glass has emerged as a critical specification consideration for building envelopes located near green spaces, waterways, and urban parks. The National Aviary in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, recently completed its Garden Room, a glass-enclosed venue featuring energy-efficient, bird-safe glazing that demonstrates how architects can reconcile transparency, occupant comfort, and ecological responsibility. This project, which installed approximately
