We're getting to that time of the year, aren't we? As much as we hate to admit it, it's pretty much winter. The forecast is showing below-zero temperatures, and that puts a damper on construction - especially pouring concrete. That's because concrete has to be…
The ultimate job of every builder is to do things right – at least, that’s what we’d hope. Our job is to make sure that things are, indeed, done right. But as those who read our Facebook page or regular “inspectors notebook” posts on our…
For builders, cold weather means a bunch of considerations – or a stop to some kinds of construction entirely. Here’s a quick rundown on Code-enforceable temperature limits: Concrete (9.3.1.9): When the air temperature is below 5°C, concrete shall be a) kept at a temperature of not…
Lintels (often incorrectly called "headers") are the built-up horizontal elements above openings in load-bearing walls, usually framed over spaces that will later be occupied by windows or doors. They are thus almost always located at the exterior of a building. Lintels are essentially two (or…
In the last few weeks, our inspectors have noticed repeated issues with improper framing of lintels. Lintels - which some carpenters call "headers" incorrectly - are two or more plies of wood framed over a load-bearing opening, usually above a window or a doorway. In…