Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFS): A Durable Option for Mid-Rise Construction October 10, 2019 ABSTRACT Combining reinforced concrete with rigid insulation, insulating concrete forms (ICFs) provide a durable option for mid-rise apartments (Figure 1), condos, hotels, and dormitories. With increased attention to occupant safety and comfort, design professionals can take advantage of concrete’s inherent disaster resilience, fire resistance, and noise reduction qualities. The thermal properties of ICFs offer building […] Read More
Defining Resilience September 10, 2019 INTRODUCTION The concept of building for resilience has been increasingly adopted by various organizations over the past five years. Organizations use different definitions or phrases to describe resilience and the hazards that are included in resilient design. These definitions from six sources are compared and a single definition incorporating these is developed. RESILIENCE AS DEFINED […] Read More
Advancing Resiliency in Tomorrow’s Roofing Systems September 10, 2019 INTRODUCTION The increase in the frequency and intensity of weather events, along with their massive disruption in building operations and loss of revenue, has clearly contributed to the resiliency conversation and eventually led many government and non-government agencies and trade associations to reach a consensus supporting the resiliency movement. Building resiliency had been defined as […] Read More
Estimating the Energy, Economic, and Durability Benefits of Installing an Air Barrier System in Commercial Buildings Using a Web-Based Calculator September 10, 2019 3 6 • I I B E C I n t e r f a ce S e p t e m be r 2 0 1 9 Photo Credit: Pixabay image by Pexels. ABSTRACT Uncontrolled heat, air, and moisture transfer through the building enclosure has a significant impact on energy usage, comfort, indoor air […] Read More
Simple Steps Towards Building Resilience September 10, 2019 3 0 • I I B E C I n t e r f a ce S e p t e m be r 2 0 1 9 In recent years, Canadians have experienced increased frequency and severity of weather events. The Fort McMurray wildfire in 2016 was the largest natural disaster in Canada’s history. […] Read More
Codification Efforts on the Climate-Resilient Design of Commercial Roofs and Wall Assemblies September 10, 2019 1 8 • I I B E C I n t e r f a ce S e p t e m be r 2 0 1 9 ABSTRACT This article highlights recent Canadian advancements towards codification efforts on the climate-resilient design of commercial roofs and wall assemblies. The roofing advancements on climate resilience have […] Read More
Façade Stabilization: Expect the Unexpected August 10, 2019 SETTING THE STAGE OF UNCERTAINTY Consider a nine-story high-rise multiunit residential property constructed circa 1990 with a failing concrete brick façade. Due to areas of brick cracking and walls out of plumb, the owner had originally engaged a contractor to perform retrofit helical brick tie installation. For a variety of reasons— including escalating costs—the work […] Read More
Full-Scale Stand-Alone Blindside Waterproofing Mock-Up and the Lessons Learned August 10, 2019 INTRODUCTION The construction of buildings is a team effort involving numerous stakeholders. It takes multiple people from various disciplines to bring a building to fruition for the owner. For the project to be successful, collaboration is critical. Three key elements are required for effective collaboration: a singular goal, alignment of expectations, and a common language. […] Read More
Anatomy of Construction Litigation: Part I – Identification of Defects August 10, 2019 A u g u s t 2 0 1 9 I I B E C I n t e r f a ce • 2 7 DISCLAIMER The issues described in this paper are considered to represent the realities of construction litigation. The opinions expressed are not intended to offend participants of this process. Rather, […] Read More
Reductions in VOC Limits for Commercial Roofing Adhesives and Sealants; SCAQMD Rule 1168 Update May 15, 2019 Read More
