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The term inspection has different meanings to different people. To some it means an assessment of the condition of an existing building. To others it means an I-depth probe for possible problems on existing buildings. Some think of inspection in terms of monitoring the process of new construction as it occurs.

In the continuing evolvement of today’s green society, which has caused sweeping changes into the use of ecologically-benign building products and practices, the mere fact that a product may be considered green in its final application is no longer sufficient.

Place a wooden pencil between two points and apply downward pressure until it breaks. Now move the two support points closer so that the span is lessened and then apply pressure until it breaks. Repeat this process until you can’t break the pencil.

Three units on four lots of land on the beach-all designated for family. That is what Ed Arnold, owner and president of Arnold & Associates, will have once he finalizes his new family compound in Long Beach’s Peninsula area. The retired Los Angeles fire department veteran will have his dream house for him and his children as he enjoys his twilight years right on the beach. Surf’s up.

In my office lies a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Maybe it’s the upcoming election and all the accompanying hype but I find myself contemplating our good fortune of living in a country that allows us rights of equality and freedom. Don’t worry, this article isn’t about politics.

Structural engineers and plaster bureaus that have tried to define the forces that impact the performance of Portland cement have had challenges, particularly when investigating why the cement stucco has developed cracks. This article is a collaborative effort of a structural engineer and plaster bureau representative who met and decided it was time to work together.

Thermal imaging can unlock secrets inside the wall, ceiling, roof and floor structures of your buildings. It is a fast, easy and non-invasive way to determine and define building construction deficiencies. It will help contractors define the problems before they are apparent to the naked eye.

We all have to be careful and CYA. Everyone knows what CYA is an acronym for. Sometimes, people can go too far and lose sight of what is really important. The following is a true story that shows how CYA can hurt innocent people.

Have you ever been to an industry trade show? I usually attend several each year; the INTEX Expo, World of Concrete, and this year I had the opportunity to attend the Remodeling Show sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders at the Convention Center in Baltimore. You can always tell when a trade show is in town. Local restaurants and hotels are filled with small groups wearing matching shirts.