Recent Articles
Calculating an Architecture Fee for Services
This guide covers architect fees: from how fees are structured, how to develop them, what is included in standard fees, things to consider when building a fee, and a discussion about typical fees.
Green Building Certification and Rating Systems
There are a number of green building certification programs and rating systems. Some focus on energy reduction, some focus on occupant health, and others try to cover it all. We review the various rating systems for sustainability, resiliency, and health.
Types of Roof Membranes for Flat or Low-Slope Roofs
Membrane roofing is often used on commercial flat roofs. Common flat roof membranes discussed in this article include built-up asphalt (tar and gravel), modified bitumen, and single-ply membranes like EPDM, PVC, TPO, and KEE. We also cover spray applied foam and liquid roofing options.
Wood Preservative Treatments (Pressure Treated Wood)
Pressure treated wood (or another kind of treatment) should be used if wood is exposed to moisture so you can prevent wet-rot, dry-rot, and insect infestation. We discuss treatment options, specifications, and health hazards.
Building Material Red Lists: A Comparative Review
A review of the three major red lists used to help architects and users identify safe building materials: the Living Building Challenge Red List, The Perkins & Will Precautionary List, and the Cradle to Cradle material certification.
Popular Articles
Calculating Slope and Common Slopes in Architecture
Learn how to calculate slopes in degrees, percentage, and gradient. We also provide a table of slopes commonly used in architecture and construction, plus a table of roof slopes.
CAD Scale Factors
Architectural and engineering scale factors for use in Computer Aided Design.
Dimensional Lumber Sizes: Nominal vs. Actual
A table of lumber sizes that includes the actual lumber dimensions as well as the nominal sizes. This includes softwood, hardwood, and glue laminated lumber.
Concrete Block (CMU) Sizes, Shapes, and Finishes
Concrete masonry Unit (CMU) sizes for standard CMUs - includes both nominal and actual dimensions. Also covers the various CMU shapes and finishes as well as the common ASTM manufacturing standards.
R-values of Insulation and Other Building Materials
Covers insulation R-values and R-factors for other common building materials. We also discuss U-Factors.