Monthly archive

This course will discuss the challenges of current lows-slope roofing applications and further explore the properties of insulation types and performance characteristics under different operating temperatures. Participants will learn of an alternative insulation selection strategy using a hybrid approach combining both polyisocyanurate and mineral wool. Dimensional stability and constructability of the hybrid system will be explored in addition to the implications of roofing color and energy transfer through the insulation assembly.

A panel discussion that reviews the challenges and opportunities of the Enclosure Development Process. This discussion will include the perspective of the Architect, Contractor, and Owner regarding the successful and “challenged” processes for going through iterations of modifying the Enclosure.

The commissioning of a building enclosure is dependent upon the assumption that the construction manager and his contractors have a proactive first level enclosure process fully implemented in order to provide the opportunity for BECx to function and succeed.

Lindsey Pflugrath, an attorney with Skellenger Bender, P.S., will present a case study involving a recent jury verdict in a public, design-build project and catastrophic injuries to a State worker. Ms. Pflugrath will discuss the risks presented by joint venture partnerships on design-build projects, how employer immunity can shift risk to design and construction professionals, the importance of contract-specific contracts, and the new “failure to warn” negligence theory.

Surprisingly little research has been done into the effectiveness of different drip edge designs. Drip edges are found at window sills, window head flashing, and the edges of roofs and balconies – all critical areas for managing rainwater. By deflecting rain from the exterior surface of a wall, drip edges can reduce moisture-related issues such as freeze thaw of masonry, staining of the cladding, and potential long term erosion of historical materials. In this session, Jonathan Smegal will describe recent research into effective drip edge design.

This tour will feature in-progress construction of the largest Passive Haus project in North America to date. Attendees will hear from both the design and construction teams about the challengers and solutions to creating a project that will meet the Passive Haus standard. The design and construction team will share their experiences as members of a collaborative team that has worked together to come up with solutions to meet the high level of air tightness and thermal barrier continuity required by the Passive Haus standard.

Over the past few decades the use of glass and glazing on our high rise buildings has increased dramatically. More recently, as a result of increased industry recognition of the importance of energy efficiency, the trend is towards more energy efficient glazing systems. However, there are instances of implementation of new technology which have resulted in premature and costly failures.

Cold applied liquid applied waterproofing and roofing membranes of various chemistries (e.g. polyurethane, polyurea, polyester, and asphalt modified urethanes etc.) have become increasingly popular in past decades, particularly over concrete podium slab, roof decks, and planters in protected (i.e. inverted) roofing applications. Liquid membranes are often preferred in this application for their relative low cost, ease of application over complicated curbs, planters, water features and at penetrations and interfaces.

This course focuses on historic masonry and critical factors that lead to its degradation, with problems specific to Portland being highlighted. Changes in masonry construction, improper repairs, and the use of inappropriate materials during conservation will be addressed. New and on-site techniques will be discussed for the continued future of historic masonry.

This course will explore different types of aluminum curtainwall systems, their use, and design parameters.

Brad Glauser recently joined forces with Wausau Window & Wall Systems in April 2012. After receiving his education from University of Utah, and being the fourth generation to continue in the in construction industry, he followed his career path into construction management. Along the way he found his knack and love for the commercial glass industry.