Steel open web joists are one of the most popular framing systems in commercial construction. There are many reasons for this popularity. They’re versatile, offer a clean look, and are relatively lightweight, making them easy to work with. However, steel open web joists also have their fair share of disadvantages. One of the biggest problems with steel open web joists is that they can be susceptible to buckling. Buckling occurs when the joist is subjected to a load it cannot support. This can happen for various reasons, but most often, it is due to poor design or installation. When buckling occurs,... View Article
Braced frame and moment frame stands out as some of the most used terms in construction. Any construction work you will be involved in will utilize one of these two methods. The two framing methods are fundamental in ensuring that your structure is stable and can withstand different loads that will be placed on it. In this article, we will take a closer look at the two methods and see their key differences. 1. Cost One of the fundamental differences between the two methods is the cost. A braced frame is generally going to be the more affordable option when... View Article
Retaining walls are popular in both commercial and residential properties. They are beautiful and can transform your landscape easily. They also prevent soil erosion, allowing greenery to stay in place. Whether you are a residential or commercial developer, below, we have highlighted four different types of retaining walls to consider for your project. Cantilevered Retaining Walls These walls are also referred to as reinforced retaining walls. They have steel bars running through the masonry or concrete retaining wall. The retaining walls are attached to a slab foundation that is usually under the soil, giving the wall an L-shape. The weight of... View Article
Insurance can be tricky. Many policies contain loopholes, technicalities and exceptions. If you’re not an insurance agent yourself, this can be downright disconcerting, but when it comes to your home, which is a big investment, it’s crucial to know what your homeowners insurance policy does and does not cover. Will house insurance cover structural damage? That largely depends on several factors. Is there a benefit to purchasing builder’s risk insurance for homeowners? There could be depending on the policy. In this article, we’ll shed some light on whether homeowners insurance will cover a home’s structural issues. In the realm of... View Article
Nearly every engineering project requires a team of engineers working together. Like most organizations, though, there needs to be a hierarchy. Certain engineers have various responsibilities on a given project. This hierarchy of responsibility is made simpler by designating an engineer in responsible charge. This engineer has multiple responsibilities, including the final sign-off on project plans and other documents. Being the engineer in responsible charge comes with more than just a wider scope of responsibility. It’s also far from an all-encompassing term. In this article, we’ll answer some questions regarding engineers and their responsibilities. What does the term engineer in... View Article
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