May 30, 2019

Landscape Edging: Which Type is Most Applicable for My Landscape?

Previously, I wrote a blog on edge restraints (Landscape Edging: Which Variety Should I Use?) and some of the positives and negatives associated with them. In this blog post, I am going to relate the types of edge restraints to locations in which they would/should fit into the rural-to-urban transect associated with the SmartCode. Non-Existent

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Sapphire Reviewer- Running a Model

As EVstudio gets further into the process of modeling structural layouts in Sapphire Reviewer, we are continually finding creative solutions to common issues that arise when running a model. The image below shows one of our houses after the MXF files have been imported and the roof, walls, and floor system layouts are complete. Before

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Structural Wood Framing Connectors from Simpson Strong-Tie and USP

Simpson or USP?  Each company has a wide range of framing connectors that meets the needs of almost every type of wood connection you can think of.  In addition, each company provides connectors for epoxy bonding, retrofitting, and other various products to create quick structural connections.  In Colorado, Simpson and USP products are commonly used,

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A Mentoring Mindset

A mentor, on the most basic level, is defined as an “experienced and trusted advisor.”  This does not necessarily mean older; it just means someone is more experienced at something than you are.  So don’t think that just because you are young, you wouldn’t be a suitable mentor.  There are many opportunities in today’s workforce

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How to Pick the Right Compact Fluorescent Bulb Color

Hi, Lisa. I really want to save energy by using compact fluorescent bulbs in some of my light fixtures, but the last batch I bought was an awful cold blue color that made me feel funny.  How can I avoid making the same $9 mistake every time?   – Virginia, Cherry Hills Village Virginia, you’ve experienced one of

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Architecture Wind Baffles Rafter Chutes

Vent and Insulation Clearance in the 2009 IRC

For rafter framed or truss framed roof construction, not only is ventilation of these cavities required by the 2009 International Residential Code, but a minimum air flow clearance is required to maintain the path of ventilation. Per the 2009 IRC, Chapter 8, Section 806.3, here is the excerpt for this requirement: R806.3 Vent and insulation

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Wind or Fallen Tree Damage Report by a Structural Engineer

Unfortunately, we are experiencing some high winds as the year ends.  Although structures built in the last 20 years should have been designed to withstand a 90mph wind gust or higher in some areas along the front range it doesn’t protect the structures from falling trees or other forms of wind damage.  There are of

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