You are here:
- Home
- Industry
- Construction Industry
- Construction Industry
Construction Industry/Questions Answered by Expert Roger Zona
| Subject | Date Asked |
| SCC | 2/3/2012 |
| Q: is Self Compacting Concrete good? Or any bad effects with it? ref: ... A: Please excuse my delay in responding. I was on a short holiday to South Carolina and there was no ... | |
| Use of modular building for a garage | 1/30/2012 |
| Q: I have a 24x40 double wide modular building(classroom) built in 1992 to BOCA standards. It has a ... A: Having living in Michigan nearly half of my life, I know what you mean about it being cold! You ... | |
| Use of modular building for a garage | 1/29/2012 |
| Q: I have a 24x40 double wide modular building(classroom) built in 1992 to BOCA standards. It has a ... A: The building you described sounds very substantial and well built. It was built knowing that it ... | |
| Construction project information | 1/28/2012 |
| Q: I'm writing a mystery novel in which workers at a construction site find a buried body. So I have a ... A: Yes, a backhoe would be the wrong machine. A backhoe is used for digging trenches or excavating ... | |
| Construction project information | 1/28/2012 |
| Q: I'm writing a mystery novel in which workers at a construction site find a buried body. So I have a ... A: Congratulations. I hope your pending novel is a best seller. To begin a project: The site is ... | |
| Definition of crawlspace or basement? | 1/12/2012 |
| Q: I've got a building built in the 1930s. I believe a class "b" construction definition. It has an ... A: Hey Danny, Codes vary from place to place, state to state, etc. and therefore I can't reference a ... | |
| storage loft in garage | 1/5/2012 |
| Q: I'd like to build a storage loft in garage. Lots of wasted space above. The size would be 10' x ... A: A 2"x 6" member is limited in the amount of live load that it can support. If you have the space, I ... | |
| storage loft in garage | 12/20/2011 |
| Q: I'd like to build a storage loft in garage. Lots of wasted space above. The size would be 10' x ... A: I apologize for the delay in responding. What with the holidays and visiting family, I was very ... | |
| floor psf support under load | 11/2/2011 |
| Q: i live on a third level of a rental apartment complex in scottsdale az. i built a small music ... A: From your description, I suspect you are somewhat in an "over-kill" mode. I own a warehouse complex ... | |
| floojoist | 10/16/2011 |
| Q: I own a ranch home and recently noticed that a few of the floor joists are grade 3 lumber. the ... A: I assume you are reading a stamp on the joist. The species of wood may be graded differently. The ... | |
| engineering | 10/7/2011 |
| Q: 1-Hovv many meters a ceramic labour should do a day ? 2-hovv many meter a painter should do a day ? ... A: The question you asked has many many variables that will change the answer. For example, plaster is ... | |
| strongest building | 10/3/2011 |
| Q: Hi, I'm in Gr.8 and I'm going to have a science fair. So, I decided to do it on architecture. I ... A: I'm reminded of my days in high school and I entered a science fair and received a blue ribbon for ... | |
| concrete calculations, how to figure out ADA spec. for flatwork | 9/27/2011 |
| Q: I want to figure out the right procedure on concrete flatwork for commercial construction. I believe ... A: Yes, the 5 ft. wide sidewalk would slope 1-1/4". The 20 ft ramp would rise 20" and the 57 ft run ... | |
| concrete calculations, how to figure out ADA spec. for flatwork | 9/16/2011 |
| Q: I want to figure out the right procedure on concrete flatwork for commercial construction. I believe ... A: The 2% slope can be from the crown or center of a sidewalk or a slope from one side to the other. ... | |
| ceiling load engineering | 9/14/2011 |
| Q: Roger, I want to build a 32x60' dance floor with living quarters above. I am guessing I'll need to ... A: Typically, the loading on a floor system is broken down into 3 classifications. These are Top-live, ... | |
| supporting new reinforced floor slabs from old stone walls | 8/4/2011 |
| Q: I'm trying to research the best method and design for replacing the floors in old stonewalled houses ... A: You didn't say how old the houses are but, by your description, I assume they may be pre-WWII or ... | |
| How to Calculate load bearing capacity for warehouse floor | 6/6/2011 |
| Q: Please suggest how to calculate load bearing capacity for a warehouse floor, the warehouse is having ... A: It depends on the structural system used to construct the building. Is the ground floor on grade or ... | |
| constuction company | 5/20/2011 |
| Q: please i need your advice on issues surrounding setting up a construction company my uncle who is an ... A: You are in an envious position - sounds like you have the funding necessary to create a start-up ... | |
| load limit for concrete/rebar floor | 5/15/2011 |
| Q: I live overseas and I'm having difficulty finding an answer to this question. At what types of ... A: Since you don't know the exact specifications and capacity of the floor system, I would really ... | |
| load limit for concrete/rebar floor | 5/13/2011 |
| Q: I live overseas and I'm having difficulty finding an answer to this question. At what types of ... A: The weight of the floor slab is carried by walls that extend down to a foundation. I think it would ... | |
| load limit for concrete/rebar floor | 5/13/2011 |
| Q: I live overseas and I'm having difficulty finding an answer to this question. At what types of ... A: Hey Mark, You are doing the right thing - being assured that the floor will support your aquarium. ... | |
| Swimming pool supply | 4/27/2011 |
| Q: What is the normal pactise of waterproofing a swimming pool water storage tank? I am working on a ... A: That information helps. There are two ways the pipes could be inserted into the tank: 1st, the ... | |
| Swimming pool supply | 4/26/2011 |
| Q: What is the normal pactise of waterproofing a swimming pool water storage tank? I am working on a ... A: I understand your question but I don't have enough information. For example, what is the storage ... | |
| assmbl site | 4/13/2011 |
| Q: can u explain the site assembly on construction side? and productivty cycle? A: I assume you are referring to the equipment and tools kept on a project site. As I previously ... | |
| applications | 4/13/2011 |
| Q: u plz help out me the role of computer applicationin improving productivty of construction project ... A: The use of a computer in the construction industry is mandatory in this day and age. Architectural ... | |
| moisture in slab foundation | 4/10/2011 |
| Q: Our house was built in 2003 in Southern California. We started experiencing moisture in our lower ... A: What bad luck - obviously the proper drainage system was not installed originally. The comments ... | |
| CONSTRUCTION COMPANY | 4/10/2011 |
| Q: i am very new here.. actually i am deeply stressed out because of the construction company that we ... A: Just wondering how you are doing. Did you find a job with a construction company? If possible, you ... | |
| asbestos in mastics used in an old slate roof | 4/2/2011 |
| Q: I'm hoping you can help me with this problem. I am planning to do some work on an old slate roof on ... A: Asbestos is a more hazardous material when it is in a powder or fibrous state. For example, years ... | |
| second floor deck | 3/29/2011 |
| Q: I am renovating a 2nd floor sun deck. The deck was originially a wood deck 3/4" 1X8 topped with ... A: Your description is very good. The "tar and gravel" is probably a 1" layer of rigid insulation and ... | |
| reimbursement | 3/23/2011 |
| Q: We moved into our new house about 6 months ago, however, a few months before the completion I had ... A: I can't give you legal advice but I can certainly tell you my opinion. As a homeowner, there are ... | |
| CONSTRUCTION COMPANY | 3/18/2011 |
| Q: i am very new here.. actually i am deeply stressed out because of the construction company that we ... A: My daughter spent a year in Bahrain with the American Embassy and had tea with the Queen of Qatar on ... | |
| Floor joists | 3/16/2011 |
| Q: I want to put a air massage tub in an upstairs bathroom. Specs call for 45psf. I have 2x10 joists ... A: Hey Roger, That's much better! The span is a major factor and at 14' and 16" o.c. you should be ... | |
| Floor joists | 3/15/2011 |
| Q: I want to put a air massage tub in an upstairs bathroom. Specs call for 45psf. I have 2x10 joists ... A: . . Sorry - the specs are about 5psf greater than your structure. Your framing, depending on the ... | |
| Minimum Slope Sidewalk | 3/3/2011 |
| Q: What is the minimum slope for exterior concrete sidewalks? A: There is no minimum or maximum - it depends on the field conditions. The purpose is to allow rain ... | |
| Dryvit for concrete high-rise? | 2/15/2011 |
| Q: Have you had any experience with, or would you have an opinion about, using Dryvit EIFS on the ... A: Dryvit has been around for a long time but, like all man-made products, it has it's good points, bad ... | |
| monolific footers | 1/27/2011 |
| Q: Building a 30' x 40' garage with attic truss across 30' span. Live in West Virginia, rarly gets ... A: Hey Mark, The structural limits of either footing depends on the load. Obviously a two story home ... | |
| monolific footers | 1/25/2011 |
| Q: Building a 30' x 40' garage with attic truss across 30' span. Live in West Virginia, rarly gets ... A: If you experience that much cold, your building code most likely requires that the foundation must ... | |
| laying storm pipe | 1/18/2011 |
| Q: basic book or manual on laying pipe. i did a job this year and layed 800ft of 24in pipe and 6 boxes ... A: Hey Tom Your best source is a library. Then you should check with your local governing agency for ... | |
| laying storm pipe | 1/15/2011 |
| Q: basic book or manual on laying pipe. i did a job this year and layed 800ft of 24in pipe and 6 boxes ... A: There are many manuals regarding underground utilities and the methods of installation. It all ... | |
| concrete waterproofing | 1/6/2011 |
| Q: Mr. Zona, First thank you for your time. I think you can help me and if not point me in ... A: Hey Chip, A pond is a great feature. My son has one at his home and it is stocked with Koi. I ... | |
| Deadman anchors | 12/23/2010 |
| Q: This is an off the wall question, but I recently had shoulder surgery in which "deadman" anchor ... A: Apparently I'm not old enough! (Let's not go into details.) I'm betting that the term is very very ... | |
| Deadman anchors | 12/21/2010 |
| Q: This is an off the wall question, but I recently had shoulder surgery in which "deadman" anchor ... A: Hey Beverly, It's a common expression and has been used for as long as I can remember and I'm an ... | |
| Footers depth and oak tree | 12/9/2010 |
| Q: Roger. Putting in a footer for a garage I am building at the rear of my property. Inspector said ... A: My recommendation would be excavate the footing to a bottom depth of 4'. The frost line means that ... | |
| holding down bolt configuration on boundary wall. | 11/30/2010 |
| Q: We are in the process of designing /building an industrial unit close to the boundary of a site. ... A: My personal opinion is that the eight bolts should be on the inside to prevent the columns and walls ... | |
| How To Look For Land To Build On | 11/19/2010 |
| Q: I want to learn the best way to look for land to build a house on in either Washington State or ... A: You posed several questions - all of which you rightfully should ask before buying land. First, you ... | |
| arches | 10/18/2010 |
| Q: what are the different instances where construction of arches are applicable in construction. As i ... A: Arches can be built in many different ways. The basic is an opening with a "lintel" or beam that ... | |
| Cracks repeatedly appeards on the walls of a high rise | 9/1/2010 |
| Q: Zone I would like to seek your advice on the level of safety of a 19 stories residential ... A: I am not familiar with the building codes of Malaysia, but I can assure you, cracks that appear ... | |
| attic insulation | 8/26/2010 |
| Q: What is the dead load bearing capacity of gypsum board ceilings and how many inches insulation will ... A: Hey Ed - Thanks for the reply. Your research is right on target and good to know. Apparently ... | |
| attic insulation | 8/24/2010 |
| Q: What is the dead load bearing capacity of gypsum board ceilings and how many inches insulation will ... A: Generally, in houses built with wood trusses, the bottom cord or ceiling joist is a 2"x 4" or 2"x ... | |
| Construction defects, professional fees | 8/16/2010 |
| Q: Re: Construction Defects, Design Errors and Statutory Omissions dated 5/30/2008 I have a question ... A: I am disturbed that a professional resorts to such things the way your Architect has. I can't give ... | |
| Construction defects, professional fees | 8/14/2010 |
| Q: Re: Construction Defects, Design Errors and Statutory Omissions dated 5/30/2008 I have a question ... A: I guess the old adage applies - get it in writing! I sympathize with you for being led down the ... | |
| DRYWALL PARTITIONS | 7/28/2010 |
| Q: WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED SPACING FOR HORIZONTAL BRACING AND FOR SCREWS ON PLASTERBOARD? ANSWER: ... A: Following is a web site address which may be very helpful to you. It seems to answer most questions ... | |
| DRYWALL PARTITIONS | 7/25/2010 |
| Q: WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED SPACING FOR HORIZONTAL BRACING AND FOR SCREWS ON PLASTERBOARD? A: By "Plasterboard" I assume you mean "Drywall" or gypsum board. I hope you don't have the problem we ... | |
| Colored Concrete | 7/13/2010 |
| Q: Three days ago I had my patio done with colored concrete. The patio has 12 6'x6' boxes and is going ... A: Coloring concrete is difficult at best. For some reason I can never get a straight answer about why ... | |
| Barbending schedule | 7/5/2010 |
| Q: Q. The answer of my question is as under give by you.I need more explanation on it if possibe ... A: Following is an explanation of calculating the length of rebar as in your example: Circumference of ... | |
| Barbending schedule | 6/27/2010 |
| Q: I have a very simple but complicated questin that has confused me varoius time.please help me on ... A: Here is the formula for the bend you describe: The measurements at the center line are as follows: ... | |
| Concrete drive and walk | 6/25/2010 |
| Q: A new home is being built for us in Georgetown, Texas. Last Friday the drive and walk ways were ... A: Back home again and again I apologize for the delay in my response. There are several concrete ... | |
| Concrete drive and walk | 6/21/2010 |
| Q: A new home is being built for us in Georgetown, Texas. Last Friday the drive and walk ways were ... A: Please excuse my delay in responding. I had a death in the family and had to fly to Michigan. ... | |
| Mill Review Visit | 6/20/2010 |
| Q: I am a Structural Engineer working on a high rise building project. Large diameter CFT column ... A: My apologies - your question is out of my realm of experience. I can only assume that if the ... | |
| milestones | 5/24/2010 |
| Q: Is it a sound practice to assign floats to mile stones when planning a construction project ? ... A: Sabih, The "fixed end date" can be dangerous. If you find that the "critical path" progresses to ... | |
| milestones | 5/24/2010 |
| Q: Is it a sound practice to assign floats to mile stones when planning a construction project ? A: Sabih, When creating a "critical path" it is a good practice to allow "float time" for phases or ... | |
| Concrete Slap | 5/16/2010 |
| Q: Greetings; We need to pour a 60x15 concrete slab under the deck in our backyard. It runs alongside ... A: I checked weather.com and see that you do get freezing temperatures in the winter. Also, the deck ... | |
| Concrete Slap | 5/15/2010 |
| Q: Greetings; We need to pour a 60x15 concrete slab under the deck in our backyard. It runs alongside ... A: You didn't say where you are located so I will make some assumptions. You said the slab would be ... | |
| concrete sidewalks | 5/9/2010 |
| Q: how do i figure slope on concrete sidewalks A: Don't worry about the "degree" of slope - that's for the engineers to figure out. Rather, for ... | |
| retaining wall dead-man anchor | 5/1/2010 |
| Q: I am replacing part of a brick and block retaining wall approx. 5 ft. high, part of which was ... A: The "deadman" anchor usually is made of some product that doesn't deteriorate in the soil - such as ... | |
| Concrete Brick | 4/19/2010 |
| Q: Roger, I am a contractor who specializes in installation of industrial cranes. In addition to the ... A: I think the risk is much too high considering the conditions. You know - the weakest link, etc.! ... | |
| To slab or not to slab | 3/22/2010 |
| Q: We are currently making an offer on a new construction house to be built on a lot just 3 doors down ... A: Your question is well timed. Never enter into a contract without knowing all the specifications ... | |
| floor loading | 3/6/2010 |
| Q: i would like to put in a jacuzzi bathtub that requires an 80 lb/sq ft floor load capacity. My floor ... A: The conditions you describe are adequate but marginal. It would be a good idea to install ... | |
| load capacity of wood floor | 3/3/2010 |
| Q: Wood Floor Capacity I need a ‘bridge’ over an inspection trench in the floor, for a pneumatic tire ... A: You were very thorough in your description and it certainly sounds like a solid and substantial ... | |
| roof load | 3/2/2010 |
| Q: Cal osha ask us to post the load rating on top of our office. The joist are 2*12", 16" OC with a 12 ... A: OSHA is a very powerful organization and can be very intimidating. Their concern is that you will ... | |
| Project planning | 2/26/2010 |
| Q: I am moving towards a new position as a project manager. I wonder if you can help me find an ... A: Please excuse my delay in responding. I am now working with Windows 7 operating system and it seems ... | |
| Red Brass Bolts | 1/29/2010 |
| Q: Is red brass used in the manufacturing of "grade 8" bolts, for use it bolting together beams,frames ... A: Red Brass is also known as gunmetal , is a type of bronze alloy (copper, tin, and zinc). Originally ... | |
| PSF weight load in high rise | 1/12/2010 |
| Q: Roger I live in a two story penthouse of a highrise building made of concrete and rebar. I just ... A: The floor layout was helpful. There is probably a beam between all the columns. The aquarium is in ... | |
| PSF weight load in high rise | 1/11/2010 |
| Q: Roger I live in a two story penthouse of a highrise building made of concrete and rebar. I just ... A: I'm sorry I can't give you a positive answer at this time. You didn't tell me the sizes of the ... | |
| Closet Doors | 1/7/2010 |
| Q: My closet doors are bifold aluminum doors from ceiling to floor and need to be replaced. They are ... A: You are correct - your doors are an unusual height. The normal is 6'-8" or 8'-0". Call Gary ... | |
| Closet Doors | 1/6/2010 |
| Q: My closet doors are bifold aluminum doors from ceiling to floor and need to be replaced. They are ... A: I know exactly what you are experiencing. Your existing doors were probably standard height which ... | |
| high rise hospital water supply and sewage | 1/6/2010 |
| Q: im an architecture student from malaysia. currently im designing high rise hospital. The floor area ... A: I'm not sure I entirely understand your question but I will attempt to explain a hi-rise water ... | |
| Construction | 1/2/2010 |
| Q: I want to know about steel alongation? What will be the cut legnth of a bar having 6" L on both ... A: The total length will be equal to the sum of the three straight sections plus the portion of a ... | |
| Will my deck support a Hot Tub | 12/21/2009 |
| Q: I am looking at purchasing a hot tub to put on my deck. I am assuming I will have to add some ... A: Your hot tub is too heavy for your present framing. Your tub will hold about 250 gallons of water ... | |
| fall protection | 12/16/2009 |
| Q: The truss anchor calls for 16d galvanized nails and the contractor only have duplex common nails, is ... A: I sorry to say - duplex nails are not intended for structural conditions and that's what truss ... | |
| Strength and flexibility | 12/2/2009 |
| Q: In constructing a residencial building (bungalow or duplex), what is d strongest yet flexible ... A: The key word in your question is "eco-friendly". I suppose, in reality, no products are truly ... | |
| Pony Wall on concrete slab | 11/30/2009 |
| Q: Hey Roger, I plan on building an attachment garage butted up against a current garage (28X24, 8ft ... A: I'm sorry, but I can't agree with your planned project. All walls should have a foundation. ... | |
| Floor Joist Load Capacity | 11/12/2009 |
| Q: I am renovating a former warehouse into a restaurant/bar. The existing joists are turn-of the ... A: Depending on the areas over the joists, they may support tables and seating for example - but they ... | |
| Driveway | 11/5/2009 |
| Q: Zona, A while back I asked you some questions about my new driveway that was poured last Aug.The new ... A: I remember your original letter. It sounds as though the contractor is not doing his job properly. ... | |
| Surveys | 10/29/2009 |
| Q: Mr. Zona: You mentioned earlier that a parcel of land could have an unrecorded easement on it, and ... A: Austin, My son's circumstances are somewhat easy. The neighbor who's driveway was in the wrong ... | |
| Surveys | 10/29/2009 |
| Q: Mr. Zona: You mentioned earlier that a parcel of land could have an unrecorded easement on it, and ... A: Yo Austin - - - Undoubtedly there are many pitfalls in the world of real estate and construction! ... | |
| Surveys/Residential Fire Sprinklers | 10/28/2009 |
| Q: Mr. Zona: You mentioned earlier that a parcel of land could have an unrecorded easement on it, and ... A: In my haste to be brief but informative, I failed to mention that a recording of a deed requires ... | |
| Buying Land | 10/23/2009 |
| Q: Mr. Zona, I was asking so many questions the system told me to start over. There is one more topic ... A: It has been said that Michigan has two seasons - August and winter! My place is in Bay View, a ... | |
| cement patio cracked | 10/22/2009 |
| Q: 2 years ago i poured a 12x20 patio slab,I poured five 4ft deep footings 12in dia, at the outside of ... A: With a frost line approaching 4 feet, you slab should have had one or two control joints. That is ... | |
| Adding addition to house/remodel | 10/22/2009 |
| Q: I am considering buying a house and putting an addition on it as an alternative to building one from ... A: You picked a beautiful area - if you can tolerate the winters!! I can't anymore so I have a summer ... | |
| Adding addition to house/remodel | 10/21/2009 |
| Q: I am considering buying a house and putting an addition on it as an alternative to building one from ... A: I fully expected you would have more questions - but that's what I'm here for! I could be a little ... | |
| Adding addition to house/remodel | 10/20/2009 |
| Q: I am considering buying a house and putting an addition on it as an alternative to building one from ... A: You pose a common problem - live with the old or create the new. Regarding the existing - the 1st ... | |
| Permits | 10/19/2009 |
| Q: I am frequently asked to not apply for a building permit. I don't like to turn down work but I know ... A: The law is the law! If you break the law intentionally, it has a serious consequence. Do not take ... | |
| Resurface a sidewalk | 9/29/2009 |
| Q: I am getting ready to resurface the walkways on a 6 story building in South Florida. The walkway is ... A: The "pitch" you refer to is minimal but if it is doing its job (no ponding against the building) ... | |
| Old Garage Rebuild or Repair | 9/29/2009 |
| Q: Condition of garage: It is a standalone garage built in the 40's. The roof, windows & doors are ... A: I'm in Florida where hurricanes are our biggest worry. Every time we have one, the building code is ... | |
| Old Garage Rebuild or Repair | 9/28/2009 |
| Q: Condition of garage: It is a standalone garage built in the 40's. The roof, windows & doors are ... A: Williams, I'm very surprised the stucco has withstood earthquakes and the weather. Also, the ... | |
| waterbed/piano weight load on floor | 9/22/2009 |
| Q: Older house built 1970-1972, floor joist are either 2X6, or 2X8(owner not certain), and 12 inches ... A: 2x6 joists would seem unlikely. Even a 2x8 is only good for short spans - under 10'. Measure the ... | |
| Cleaning Travertine | 9/16/2009 |
| Q: Is it advisable to use the Shark Steam Mop on Travertine floors? Thanks A: Travertine is a natural stone product and has been described as a "soft" marble. It is not as hard ... | |
| rebar for garage slab | 9/12/2009 |
| Q: We're building a 22x36' garage in Omaha, Ne. We have a 42" deep block foundation. The block wall ... A: Sounds like a good project. Since garages are seldom heated the frost will extend into the garage - ... | |
| SIP construction | 9/3/2009 |
| Q: I am wondering if SIP can be used to replace concrete for the main material for the house envelope. ... A: There is a web site for the SIPA (Structural Insulated Panel Assoc. www.sips.org). Yes, you may ... | |
| How much can my second floor hold | 8/28/2009 |
| Q: I just set up heavy wood bedroom furniture and am concerned about the safety of the flooring on the ... A: You shouldn't worry if you know the home was built according to the codes in your area. Typically, ... | |
| building an interior wall | 8/25/2009 |
| Q: Can you extend a half interior wall into a full wall or do you need to remove the half wall and ... A: Adding cabinets poses additional problems - but not overwhelming ones. In order to hang the upper ... | |
| building an interior wall | 8/24/2009 |
| Q: Can you extend a half interior wall into a full wall or do you need to remove the half wall and ... A: Yes, you can "complete" the half wall - but a couple things should be checked first. Is the wall ... | |
| Large concrete/glass suppliers | 8/21/2009 |
| Q: I am doing research to determine the largest concrete and glass suppliers in the US and in the ... A: Since you are computer savvy, I think you could find that information by Googling the subject. My ... | |
| Heavy RCC structures | 8/19/2009 |
| Q: Q-1 What is difference between cubical strength and cylindrical strength in Reinforcement cement ... A: Q-1. Cubical strength is the design strength while cylindrical strength is determined by a slump ... | |
| floor joist dead load | 8/18/2009 |
| Q: Two Questions, I am trying to do my own remodel drawings before sending them into my local building ... A: Eric, I understand your wanting to produce the drawings for your project. However, you are dealing ... | |
| drivit/dryvit question | 8/16/2009 |
| Q: We have on the front facing of our house a drivit wall that is fairly empty and we would like to ... A: I am surprised to hear you have "Drivit" on a residence. Here in Florida it was used more for ... | |
| High Rise Construction Supervision | 8/4/2009 |
| Q: In general, what are the main teams required for high rise construction (those who are with the ... A: Please excuse my delay in responding to your question. The last High Rise building I built had ... | |
| LIEN | 8/3/2009 |
| Q: MY COMPANY DID WORK FOR A CLIENT, IN NAPLES FL. WE RECEIVED DEPOSITS FROM THE HOME OWNER , BUT HAD A ... A: You failed to do what so many subcontractors fail to do - send a notice. There are service ... | |
| Attic Load for Solar Heat Storage | 8/2/2009 |
| Q: Roger, We have recently moved into a new Modular home and I am in the process of finishing the ... A: Your question comes up quite often - how much weight will my floor system support. I wished I had a ... | |
| Venting Common Dryers In Older Condo Building | 7/30/2009 |
| Q: Our condo building was built back in 1973. 5 floors, all but 1st floor house 2 washers/2 dryers. ... A: Without seeing the building plans, I can only make assumptions. Most condo buildings have a "chase" ... | |
| joist hangers | 7/24/2009 |
| Q: During our house remodel we salvaged some old beams and planed them to use them as decorative beams ... A: Jennifer, You selected the correct web site of "Simpson" for joist hangers. These work well when ... | |
| Best tool to scrape off polyurethane | 7/5/2009 |
| Q: I've been remodeling my roof and I filled the interior of my roof with hard polyurethane foam, but I ... A: Isn't that expanding foam a great product??? I use it frequently to fill openings and as an ... | |
| Load bearing capacity on a deck | 7/1/2009 |
| Q: I recently purchased an above ground 9' x 15' swimming pool. I would like to place it on our deck. ... A: The 2" difference wouldn't improve the live load significantly. What would help - shorten the span. ... | |
| Load bearing capacity on a deck | 7/1/2009 |
| Q: I recently purchased an above ground 9' x 15' swimming pool. I would like to place it on our deck. ... A: Your calculations are close. The 9'x 15' pool equals 135s.f. Divide the total weight including the ... | |
| Puddles forming in new driveway | 6/22/2009 |
| Q: I recently had my driveway removed and repaved with a new asphalt one, but I get temporary puddles ... A: I live in Florida where the sun evaporates rain water quickly - but not in two hours. The water is ... | |
| Puddles forming in new driveway | 6/20/2009 |
| Q: I recently had my driveway removed and repaved with a new asphalt one, but I get temporary puddles ... A: I don't agree with your contractor. There should not be any "ponding" or "puddling" if installed ... | |
| Floor Loading | 6/3/2009 |
| Q: I wish to put a 600 pound safe in my first floor residential office. The footprint is 720 sq ins or ... A: My mistake - a typo error. You are correct, the dead load I meant is about 6#. All weights are ... | |
| Floor Loading | 6/3/2009 |
| Q: I wish to put a 600 pound safe in my first floor residential office. The footprint is 720 sq ins or ... A: Don't forget, you will probably put papers and such in the safe so the total weight will exceed ... | |
| Weight, hot tub on second story deck. | 5/28/2009 |
| Q: a customer has asked me to build them a deck off there second story bedroom.(24x18)And they would ... A: You were right! A hot tub full of water and people suspended on a wood deck could be a recipe for ... | |
| Concrete Slabs | 5/17/2009 |
| Q: I am currently building a house and the builder has told me that i will need to upgrade my slab. ... A: I need a few more facts - but with certain assumptions, there probably is a logical reasons for the ... | |
| Spawling | 5/15/2009 |
| Q: Any techniques to stop/retard rebar corrosion before spawling is noted aside from coating concrete ... A: There are so many factors that can effect a building - weather conditions at the time of ... | |
| Spawling | 5/14/2009 |
| Q: Any techniques to stop/retard rebar corrosion before spawling is noted aside from coating concrete ... A: Years ago, when a rebar inspection was made, the rebar had to be clean and free of rust, grease, ... | |
| glass exterior wall | 5/12/2009 |
| Q: I have plans on remodeling my beach home. I ran across these two companies ... A: I know of the two companies you mentioned. I like the Nanawall products but they are pricey. ... | |
| Adding ceiling joists into existing brick walls | 5/11/2009 |
| Q: I live in a 14' wide brick rowhome and I'm adding a rooftop deck. I'll need to add additional ... A: You have two choices - as you wrote, removing enough bricks to allow you to add another joist or--- ... | |
| building project | 5/5/2009 |
| Q: i want to build a open carport but city said i need to get letters of permission from all utility ... A: I don't know where you're located, but every state, county, township, city, etc. have different ... | |
| high rise constrution | 5/5/2009 |
| Q: How deep is the hole dug for a 20 to 30 story building approximately . Conditions similar to Calgary ... A: Again, there's no hard and fast rule. The height of a "story" depends on the intended use of the ... | |
| high rise constrution | 5/3/2009 |
| Q: How deep is the hole dug for a 20 to 30 story building approximately . Conditions similar to Calgary ... A: There's no simple answer to your question. It depends on the soil conditions primarily. Usually a ... | |
| floor framing leveling | 4/28/2009 |
| Q: We have a 2 story wood frame house with a 4 foot crawl space under the entire house. Four years ago ... A: Yes, the area that buckled could very well contribute to the problem in the other rooms. The blue ... | |
| floor framing leveling | 4/27/2009 |
| Q: We have a 2 story wood frame house with a 4 foot crawl space under the entire house. Four years ago ... A: Laminate flooring is an excellent product but has it's failings as well. Did your contractor ... | |
| Materials for a mag-train | 4/22/2009 |
| Q: Roger, We are trying to put together a draft for a mag-lev train contained within a tube. We would ... A: I don't know where you are located. I'm in southeast Florida and we have many Structural Engineers ... | |
| Materials for a mag-train | 4/20/2009 |
| Q: Roger, We are trying to put together a draft for a mag-lev train contained within a tube. We would ... A: An admirable project - but history has already met the problem and came up with a couple solutions. ... | |
| removing bearing wall | 4/14/2009 |
| Q: I am removing a first floor 2x6 bearing wall that supports the 2nd floor & roof. Span is approx 12'. ... A: I think I get the picture. The 1st floor joists are parallel to the bearing wall. Usually a ... | |
| romoving bearing wall | 4/13/2009 |
| Q: I am removing a first floor 2x6 bearing wall that supports the 2nd floor & roof. Span is approx 12'. ... A: Is there a basement below? If so, what is supporting the bearing wall? If not, what is the bearing ... | |
| where free british standard avilable? | 4/5/2009 |
| Q: Roger Zona, I serve in a Chinese state own constructing company. Our company will get a contract of ... A: There are several web sites regarding the British Concrete Standards. Check these addresses: ... | |
| Low points on walkway and driveway | 4/4/2009 |
| Q: We recently had a house built. Whenever it rains we have a large area on our walkway leading from ... A: "Ponding" of a walkway or driveway is not acceptable. If properly installed, the walkway should be ... | |
| Floor Reinforcement? | 3/28/2009 |
| Q: I have a 180 gallon aquarium that I will be setting up in our home. There is currently a 75 gallon ... A: That's a big aquarium!! And a good idea - reinforcing the floor. Probably you would not have a ... | |
| LIEN AND FORCLOSURE | 3/23/2009 |
| Q: Sir, I am the president of a small (12 unit)Condo, which is 40 years old. I had a discussion about ... A: Apparently you did a couple of "no-no's"! 1st you should have asked for and the contractor should ... | |
| concrete forms | 3/22/2009 |
| Q: I have an idea for making a round chair for my daughter and I thought a concrete form would make a ... A: The largest I have ever seen available at places like Home Depot or Lowes is 36". They also have ... | |
| FOOTERS | 3/20/2009 |
| Q: We are going to build a 20' x 18' wood frame garage at our cabin. It will be located a the lake's ... A: That depends! Are you in a cold climate area? Does it snow and freeze? That could be a hindrance ... | |
| Travertine in Steam shower | 3/15/2009 |
| Q: Have you ever used travertine for the interior of a "STEAM" shower? Thank you. A: Yes - I've used it many times. Travertine is a marble that was formed with less pressure than ... | |
| installing pipe vents on a flat torchdown roof | 3/11/2009 |
| Q: I need to install additional venting for multi-family dwellings. There are 8 bldg, each is a 2 story ... A: Mark, I'm not quite sure what you mean by "pipe vents". If you can detect moisture in the truss ... | |
| Basement floor in new home construction | 3/10/2009 |
| Q: I am purchasing a home that is being built now. The basement floor was poured last week and now has ... A: No, my answer doesn't change. The system you described is more commonly used for suspended floors ... | |
| Basement floor in new home construction | 3/10/2009 |
| Q: I am purchasing a home that is being built now. The basement floor was poured last week and now has ... A: I must agree - a newly poured slab does not crack so quickly. Yes, drying to rapidly can be one of ... | |
| Basement Finishing | 3/7/2009 |
| Q: I would like to finish my basement, and I have two steel posts I would like to remove in order to ... A: Obviously the two steel columns are there for a reason - to support the floor above. It is possible ... | |
| pitting in concrete | 2/26/2009 |
| Q: I just read your response about the Ohio driveway that has pitting in it. We also live in Ohio and ... A: I regret your driveway was not installed properly. Pitting usually is caused by allowing the gravel ... | |
| Raised cement after a freeze | 2/11/2009 |
| Q: Is there any way after cement has raised after a freeze to get it to go back down to or close to ... A: Sorry to have to say - concrete that has buckled because of a freeze generally will never go back to ... | |
| notice to lien time requirements | 12/29/2008 |
| Q: i am a materialman to a subcontractor working on a commercial project in florida. i have delivered ... A: It is imperative that you file the Notice to Owner now!! You have 45 days from the last delivery ... | |
| rafter selection | 12/29/2008 |
| Q: I need to build a roof that will have an 8/12 pitch and an 18' run. There is no snow load calc. ... A: That's an unusually high roof pitch unless you intend to use the interior space. However, I would ... | |
| Live loads | 12/16/2008 |
| Q: Calculating point loads on a sporting staduim what would a typical live load for a seated arena be ... A: You have selected a particularly difficult condition to analyze. Given the crowds and temperment of ... | |
| Adjust the RUN cut on installed stair stringer? | 12/13/2008 |
| Q: I have an enclosed staircase with a knee wall & banister on the right side. The stringers, 5 treads ... A: Mike, It sounds as though the carpenter made an allowance for a thicker finished floor and made the ... | |
| Adjust the RUN cut on installed stair stringer? | 12/13/2008 |
| Q: I have an enclosed staircase with a knee wall & banister on the right side. The stringers, 5 treads ... A: Sounds like a challenging project. A reciprocating or saber saw would seem to be a good choice. I ... | |
| Floor load-bearing capacity | 12/10/2008 |
| Q: I am looking at renting warehouse space that allegedly has a load-bearing capacity of 2500 kg/m2 ... A: Andris, The weight limits you noted are very good. Your limits would be just what you calculated ... | |
| Older Construction (7) Stories | 12/10/2008 |
| Q: Seeking start up guidance in researching and evaluating installing washer/and dryers, dryers vented ... A: Barbara, Thank you for your inquiry. Clothes dryers can be a fire hazard if not properly installed ... | |
| floor psf | 12/8/2008 |
| Q: the ceiling joist are 2x8x12@16"oc. joist are supported by 6x15x24 Glulam beam every 12'. the floor ... A: Mel, The structural strength of a wood floor system depends on the kind of wood used and how it is ... | |
| floor cracking noise | 12/8/2008 |
| Q: We just had our bedroom floor replaced. I observed that they constructed it using new wooden joists ... A: Greg, Your assumption is correct. When the outside temperature cools down (even during the summer) ... | |
| ceiling tile | 11/29/2008 |
| Q: We just purchased a house built in 1958. The attic had minimal insulation, some sort of rolled in ... A: The tiles in your home probably do not contain asbestos. But - to be on the safe side - wear a face ... | |
| Overhead door blues! | 11/22/2008 |
| Q: I own two properties in Athens, Ohio. There are 3 overhead doors, ranging in age from wooden pannels ... A: Kirk, Overhead operating doors can be dangerous to work on without the proper tools or experience. ... | |
| retaining wall anchoring systems/rods | 11/20/2008 |
| Q: I would like to anchor an existing brick masonry wall in place in order to do some work in front of ... A: Ernie, I understand that you probably want to install the anchor rods with the minimum of exposure. ... | |
| Stucco Wall | 11/18/2008 |
| Q: I have a very weird question, but I don't know where to begin to get help. I just purchased a house ... A: Sounds like your breaker panel wasn't "educated"! Now comes the tedious task of identifying all the ... | |
| Excavating under front porch | 11/17/2008 |
| Q: When I purchased my brand new home I opted out of the "cold storage" cellar located underneath the ... A: Dennis, The supporting walls of the outer perimeter of the porch probably do not extend down as far ... | |
| Stucco Wall | 11/17/2008 |
| Q: I have a very weird question, but I don't know where to begin to get help. I just purchased a house ... A: What you describe is very very abnormal. Methane gas would only produce heat when ignited. I ... | |
| Finishing the drywall around a shower flange | 11/15/2008 |
| Q: I am remodeling my bathroom as I found mold in the sheetrock. What is the best way to finish the ... A: Question - is the existing sheetrock a "green board" or moisture resistant? If not, that could be ... | |
| Electrical Cables | 11/11/2008 |
| Q: What does the typing shown on wiring cables like 300/500V or 450/700V actually mean? A: The markings on electric cable indicate the limits of electrical voltage that the wire supports. If ... | |
| problem with laser level | 11/10/2008 |
| Q: I don't know if I'm on the right board but hopefully you will have had some experience with this. I ... A: There are several laser level manufacturers out there and you didn't say what make, model and year ... | |
| Concrete walkway next to house | 11/10/2008 |
| Q: I am having a concrete walkway put next to my house. There is a grade from front to back resulting ... A: Steve, That's much clearer - now I have a better idea of what the conditions are. I assume that the ... | |
| Concrete walkway next to house | 11/9/2008 |
| Q: I am having a concrete walkway put next to my house. There is a grade from front to back resulting ... A: Steve, The hollow sound you encounter could well be loose stucco which is not a good condition. It ... | |
| Porch Columns | 11/3/2008 |
| Q: Roger, I have a situation where I noticed that the porch columns holding the roof over my front ... A: Robert, Your question has several answers depending on how the structure was assembled. 1st - is ... | |
| support | 11/1/2008 |
| Q: i have 2 1'x56' & 2 1'x14' i beams off a mobile home. i would like 2 use 1 at full 56 length & the 2 ... A: Debbie, I'm sorry - I just don't have enough information. What type of construction are you ... | |
| Air condition capacity | 10/19/2008 |
| Q: Please i want to know how to calculate for the capacity of the aircondition to be used for my room. ... A: Samuel, I don't calculate in metric - but I can approximate that your dimensions are for a small ... | |
| capacity of air condition | 10/12/2008 |
| Q: My room area is 2.6 by 2.8 square meters what capacity of Air condition can i use and how is it ... A: Samuel, Some contractors regularly use quick and incorrect methods when sizing a heater or air ... | |
| Stair Wall Trim | 10/11/2008 |
| Q: What is the best approach to cut a 1 X 12 for the wall trim on an interior stair case so it fits ... A: Dan, You have a couple alternatives. One - remove the treads and risers, install the stringer ... | |
| concrete | 10/11/2008 |
| Q: Sir I am an architect doing my masters in Building science and technology. I am not able to find ... A: Nidhi, An inescapable fact of life is that concrete shrinks, but shrinkage alone is not much of a ... | |
| concrete | 10/10/2008 |
| Q: Sir I am an architect doing my masters in Building science and technology. I am not able to find ... A: I can't be specific because the strength changes with the mixture - the amount of cement, agragate, ... | |
| footer reinforcement | 10/10/2008 |
| Q: I work in Collier County (Naples), the worst county for inspections. These guys fail at least 50% ... A: John, Isn't it a pain!!! Inspectors carry a badge and have arrest powers so it can become a ... | |
| concrete | 10/8/2008 |
| Q: Sir I am an architect doing my masters in Building science and technology. I am not able to find ... A: Please excuse my delay in answering your question. I had an emergency that required immediate ... | |
| patio walls | 9/26/2008 |
| Q: Our apartment exterior patio wall which I think has stucco has peeled off and the exposed surface is ... A: James, From your description, I would guess you have a lath material that is made with a cement ... | |
| colored concrete is blotchy | 9/22/2008 |
| Q: We had colored concrete poured on Friday, September 5th (in Minnesota). Now, some 2+ weeks later, I ... A: Kristi, There are two ways to create colored concrete - add color at the batch plant and add color ... | |
| Building a Restaurant | 9/18/2008 |
| Q: I am putting together a bid for a fast food restaurant (Sonic Drive In) and I am looking for some ... A: Patrick, There are no set rules on estimating. However, I use the listing of the AIA (Architects) ... | |
| Flooring Project - resubmit | 9/3/2008 |
| Q: I am resending this because I mistyped my e-mail address the first time :-) Please ignore the ... A: Rich, I opened this file after already responding to your 1st transmission. Your e-mail address is ... | |
| Flooring project | 9/3/2008 |
| Q: I am remodeling my kitchen and dining room. I have torn out the wall between them (non load bearing) ... A: Please excuse my delay in responding - we are preparing for hurricanes here in S.E. Florida. I ... | |
| company organization | 9/3/2008 |
| Q: what are 300 of the duties that a construction company must perform in order to be fully successful, ... A: Serge, Please excuse my delay in responding - we are preparing for the hurricanes in S.E. Florida. ... | |
| Garage walls built around slab | 8/20/2008 |
| Q: my garage was built in the late 70's & it appears as though the builder may have used the exterior ... A: I'm glad you investigated further. In your area (sounds terribly cold) a footing just 16" below ... | |
| Garage walls built around slab | 8/20/2008 |
| Q: my garage was built in the late 70's & it appears as though the builder may have used the exterior ... A: I don't mean to be vague about your question, but I need more information, please. What area of the ... | |
| Concrete expansion joints | 8/19/2008 |
| Q: Having driveway torn out and replaced with 4 inches of 3500 psi concrete (19 yds) and reinforce with ... A: Jennifer, Yes, an expansion joint is recommended. Use either a neoprene/rubber material or the ... | |
| Do I need a footer for a two-brick high wall? | 8/18/2008 |
| Q: I want to build a low 3-sided wall out of cinder blocks only two rows high to serve as a planter ... A: Craig, Your logic makes perfect sense. I suspect your winters are rather mild and the freeze is ... | |
| Do I need a footer for a two-brick high wall? | 8/16/2008 |
| Q: I want to build a low 3-sided wall out of cinder blocks only two rows high to serve as a planter ... A: Craig, You didn't say in what climate area the planter area is to be built. Weather conditions call ... | |
| Bracing sonotube | 8/13/2008 |
| Q: I have 12" holes drilled and will be pouring concrete in them for pillars under the ... A: Jason, Have you ever noticed how a newly planted tree is braced? Three pieces of scrap lumber can ... | |
| slope of concrete | 8/12/2008 |
| Q: what formula do you use to figure it out? A: John, First you must know the high point and the low point. Lets make some assumptions. Lets say ... | |
| Hiring a General Contractor | 8/8/2008 |
| Q: My wife and I are in the process of opening a patio style take-out restaurant (southern cooking). ... A: Welcome to the world Of "unknowns"! Not really, but you are starting out right by getting ... | |
| center drain for garage | 8/1/2008 |
| Q: when do i install the piping and drain. do you do it after rebar or wire mesh like a day before you ... A: Mark, No - pipes and conduits should be installed before you pour the slab. The plumber will ... | |
| uneven driveway | 7/30/2008 |
| Q: We just moved into a new construction home and found out the concrete driveway is uneven. Our home ... A: Sitra, Without a doubt - the contractor should correct the problem! Normally you have a one year ... | |
| Fill that is placed below a concrete slab and compacted | 7/24/2008 |
| Q: What kind of fill do I need below a slab? What is it called and where would I buy it? I understand ... A: Larry, We call it "Structural Fill" - clean with no roots, debris or trash - and usually a ... | |
| Construction Defects, Design Errors and Statutory Omissions | 7/23/2008 |
| Q: We have two condominium buildings in Pensacola built in 2002 and 2004. Each with Ground level ... A: Rick, The classification of your buildings depends on your local code and zoning. For example, ... | |
| How is a garage floor/slab (formwork)incorporated into a monolithic house slab? | 7/20/2008 |
| Q: How is a garage floor slab incorporated into a monolithic house slab? In particular, how is the ... A: Larry, If you would trust me with your email address, I will send you an Excel sketch showing the ... | |
| How is a garage floor/slab (formwork)incorporated into a monolithic house slab? | 7/19/2008 |
| Q: How is a garage floor slab incorporated into a monolithic house slab? In particular, how is the ... A: Larry, I'm sorry my answer was so short and basic. Yes, the forming of the garage area takes a ... | |
| Dryvit or lap siding? | 7/19/2008 |
| Q: We are in the process of building an optometry office. We have planned to place Silverdale stone ... A: Carol, If you are in an area that has extreme temperature changes (warm summer and cold winter) ... | |
| How is a garage floor/slab (formwork)incorporated into a monolithic house slab? | 7/18/2008 |
| Q: How is a garage floor slab incorporated into a monolithic house slab? In particular, how is the ... A: Larry, Yes, the entire monolithic slab (on a typical house) is formed and poured all at once. ... | |
| Question about responsibility of a general contractor | 7/14/2008 |
| Q: In 2/ 08, our basement flooded. We didn’t have a waterproof system, so everything was torn out. The ... A: Keri, My apologies also. I had forgotten that a "sump pump" is still used in some areas. I'm in ... | |
| Question about responsibility of a general contractor | 7/13/2008 |
| Q: In 2/ 08, our basement flooded. We didn’t have a waterproof system, so everything was torn out. The ... A: Keri, It sounds as though your contractor is trying to do the right thing. The size of the pump ... | |
| garage flor drain? | 7/11/2008 |
| Q: it is converting living space back to the garage . the problem is the village inspector told me that ... A: Tom, Apparently the garage has been living space for some time. My first recommendation would be ... | |
| Rock salt finish on driveway, grey concrete | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: Roger, I'm experiencing a rust color stain in the small salt created pockets of the rolled finish ... A: Brian It could be the water used in the cement mixture. Water with a high iron content. My ... | |
| concrete driveway | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: We moved into our new house last Sept. We prepaid for a concrete driveway that was to be poured ... A: Bob, Yes, that is an excessive amount of fill and I'm sure you are experiencing settlement ... | |
| concrete driveway | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: We moved into our new house last Sept. We prepaid for a concrete driveway that was to be poured ... A: Bob, First of all, you should not have had to wait for your drive. Fill being brought to a job ... | |
| load psf | 7/7/2008 |
| Q: I have an existing interior structure. 32 X 12 made of wood. One supporting wall is cinder block ... A: Debbie, I'm afraid your load capacity is not extremely high. A 2 x 8 span is at it's limit for ... | |
| concrete slurry for drive way (barney run?) | 6/30/2008 |
| Q: Is concrete slurry a viable option for my currently gravel driveway? The drive is sloped and I need ... A: Matt, Concrete slurry is a watered down cement mixture with little or no aggregate which means it ... | |
| Financing and lien law | 6/27/2008 |
| Q: I am considering offering my customers in house financing for projects of $3,000 and more utilizing ... A: Eric, A construction lien is for your protection. You can have an air-tight contract but you would ... | |
| New Leadwalk and Driveway Problem | 6/24/2008 |
| Q: We had a new leadwalk and driveway poured last Wednesday afternoon (June 18th)and we are having ... A: Sheila, I must first apologize - the term "leadwalk" is new to me - but you are obviously talking ... | |
| concrete driveway repair | 6/9/2008 |
| Q: We live in central Ohio and have a concrete driveway that is about 35 years old. Over the past ... A: Unfortunately, you live in an area that has extreme temperature changes - cold, freezing, thawing, ... | |
| New Concrete Driveway Problem | 6/4/2008 |
| Q: Just had a new concrete driveway poured and have issue with the top portion of the drive looking ... A: Concrete, when finished properly and cured properly should have a smooth and stone free surface. ... | |
| Construction Defects, Design Errors and Statutory Omissions | 5/30/2008 |
| Q: We own a unit in a seriously flawed building that leaks rain water into the living spaces and wall ... A: Rick, The current code requires that if windows are replaced, you must install impact rated windows ... | |
| joist floors | 5/30/2008 |
| Q: I have 10 inch wood joists under my first floor. However the floor shakes noticeably (china ... A: The dimensions seem very typical. My first impression is that the joists were not "bridged". Your ... | |
| Construction Defects, Design Errors and Statutory Omissions | 5/28/2008 |
| Q: We own a unit in a seriously flawed building that leaks rain water into the living spaces and wall ... A: Rick, Your apartments are much too new to experience such severe defects. As for rental property ... | |
| old garage repair | 5/27/2008 |
| Q: My recently purchased home has a one car garage, approximately 50 +/- years old. The garage ... A: You are undertaking a great project. Garages are neglected more than a basement. The Beaverboard ... | |
| washer and dryer installation | 5/16/2008 |
| Q: I intend to install a stacked washer and dryer in a hair salon, in a 1hr rated wall, I know that I ... A: Carlos, Yes, I live in Palm Beach County and visit Kissimmee (Disney World)at least once a year. I ... | |
| washer and dryer installation | 5/16/2008 |
| Q: I intend to install a stacked washer and dryer in a hair salon, in a 1hr rated wall, I know that I ... A: Carlos, If you submit your plans for a permit, Energy Calculations generally are required. That is ... | |
| washer and dryer installation | 5/15/2008 |
| Q: I intend to install a stacked washer and dryer in a hair salon, in a 1hr rated wall, I know that I ... A: Carlos, My first impulse to answer is - yes, move it to another wall. Penetrating firewalls ... | |
| construction engineering career | 4/30/2008 |
| Q: Good morning, I am a 5th grader in Mississippi exploring a career in your field. I have a few ... A: I will attempt to answer your questions - although some of the answers may be rather lengthy! I ... | |
| older elevated garage with basement underneith | 4/13/2008 |
| Q: My wife and I bought a 1970's ranch home with an elevated garage floor and basement underneith.The ... A: You are correct in being concerned about the added weight with a concrete topping. I wouldn't ... | |
| General Contractor | 4/9/2008 |
| Q: Roger - I hired a GC to do demolition work for a small commercial space. A contract for the ... A: Deb, I don't wear a "legal" hat but I can tell you of my experiences. Obtaining subcontractor bids ... | |
| construction bond | 3/24/2008 |
| Q: "Typically in international trade LC's, shipping documents, inspection certificates and contracts ... A: Mike, I guess I'll need to wear my "legal" hat! The "Contract" is the main instrument to insure ... | |
| concrete surface | 3/24/2008 |
| Q: About 10 months ago we had a concrete driveway installed. We desired a "pebbled" finish whereby the ... A: Gerald - I'm sincerely surprised on how many letters I get about concrete failure in the northern ... | |
| Cranes | 3/22/2008 |
| Q: I was just wondering what are common dimensions for the cross section area of the beams and cables ... A: Eric, I'm afraid your question has too many answers. What kind of crane? truck crane, hydraulic ... | |
| Driveway Pitting/Raising | 3/20/2008 |
| Q: I had a new cemente driveway installed last June. I live in Ohio and I am currently noticing ... A: Ben, The pitting in your concrete is because the finisher "over worked" the process and caused the ... | |
| slope of concrete sidewalks | 3/18/2008 |
| Q: I was wondering if you could tell me the general formula for figuring the percentage of slope on an ... A: Ellis, There a two ways to figure the slope of a walk or driveway, or patio slab. Engineers use a ... | |
| Construction Lien Law, Florida | 2/25/2008 |
| Q: I was hired by verbal contract, as a contractor and given a notarized authorization to precede ... A: Syed, If you signed the permit application and, hopefully the owner signed the permit and filed for ... | |
| MI Builders Exam Questions | 2/14/2008 |
| Q: What height can a ladder jack plank system be used to? Can scaffolding go 3 times or 5 times the ... A: Heather, My apologies for the delay in responding. Your email was mis-placed. I am in Florida and ... | |
| 10' cut out for a garage door(12" block,2 story commercial) | 2/13/2008 |
| Q: recently i cut out block for a garage door and i have installed the headers,in this case i have way ... A: Bill, I'm not entirely sure I understand your question. A garage door opening in a masonry wall ... | |
| insurance in construstion industry | 1/27/2008 |
| Q: Please explain the advantages and disadvantages of taking insurance in construstion industry. ... A: Eric, As I said before - there is no "disadvantage" since it is mandatory that a contractor be ... | |
| floor shakes furniture and wood floors loose | 1/26/2008 |
| Q: I recently bought a house that had hardwoods under carpet.I removed the carpet and noticed the ... A: Jim, Nail in 2"x8"x 10½" pieces between each joist and in two rows equally spaced - this is about 5' ... | |
| insurance in construstion industry | 1/25/2008 |
| Q: Please explain the advantages and disadvantages of taking insurance in construstion industry. A: Erik, I don't think it's a question of advantage or disadvantage - it's the LAW. All Contractors ... | |
| floor shakes furniture and wood floors loose | 1/25/2008 |
| Q: I recently bought a house that had hardwoods under carpet.I removed the carpet and noticed the ... A: You didn't mention how old your house is but, by your description, I would assume it is 25 or more ... | |
| Stiffening of existing Floor joyces | 1/4/2008 |
| Q: I have a 20 year old two story house. My Dining room China Closet rattles and shakes as I walk by. ... A: Lynn, Your description of the floor framing sounds like you have a well constructed floor. The ... | |
| adding a drain to a three car garage after construction | 12/28/2007 |
| Q: Is it possible to add a garage drain after construction? We did not have one put in when building ... A: Tammie, You couldn't have picked a more difficult job!! I'm afraid that once that slab is poured ... | |
| Constr Engg | 12/6/2007 |
| Q: What are EGP sheets ? How are they different from PGI sheets ? ANSWER: Dear Girish, EGP - Exterior ... A: Girish, GSM - Galvanized Sheet Metal on the face of gypsum board which is used for a wall covering. ... | |
| tips for setting up a construction company | 12/1/2007 |
| Q: please i need your advice on issues surrounding setting up a construction company. my uncle who is ... A: BIG question - and it needs a big answer! There are so many things to think about when setting up a ... | |
| Constr Engg | 11/29/2007 |
| Q: What are EGP sheets ? How are they different from PGI sheets ? A: EGP - Exterior Grade Plywood. Is used for sheathing, decking, floor underlayment, gussets, etc. PGI ... | |
| archs | 11/26/2007 |
| Q: I am doing my science project on eggs....whether they break more easily laying on its side or ... A: Jake, Yes, the arch is a strong shape which supports the load above it. There are several varieties ... | |
| subdividing raw land | 11/24/2007 |
| Q: I think you are perfect for my question, I am really interesed in residental developing field at the ... A: Your question is difficult to answer in the short space I have here. I live in South Florida and am ... | |
| basement leveling - drain | 10/21/2007 |
| Q: I would like to level my basement. The house was built in 1949. It has a drain in the middle of ... A: Kristina, I would suggest you determine which direction the drain flows. Hopefully it will go thru ... | |
| residential damage from adjacent construction | 9/27/2007 |
| Q: my home was damaged when piles of dirt/sand/debris piled at adjacent construction site sand-blasted ... A: Mark, Licensed contractors and jobs that have a permit, must carry insurance. Don't let them get ... | |
| Sidewalks, fence posts, & shrinkage | 9/26/2007 |
| Q: I secured chain link fence posts with about 160# of bagged concrete. Less than three weeks after, I ... A: Warren, The best subgrade base would be crushed limestone or "road rock", at least 4" thick and well ... | |
| Sidewalks, fence posts, & shrinkage | 9/25/2007 |
| Q: I secured chain link fence posts with about 160# of bagged concrete. Less than three weeks after, I ... A: Warren, Please excuse my delay in responding. (My wife and I just celebrated an anniversary) ... | |
| Garage Floor | 9/24/2007 |
| Q: I purchased an 11 year old house with a 3 car garage. The garage is called an elevated slab and has ... A: Vic The simplest solution is to provide a new drain. Run water on the floor to see where it ... | |
| civil | 9/8/2007 |
| Q: Why is it required to provide D.P.C ( DAMP proof course) in houses ?. Which is best method to ... A: Raju, Building codes vary from city to city, state to state, etc. DPC & DPM requirements are not ... | |
| CONSTRUCTION | 9/5/2007 |
| Q: pl let me know 1) what are the benefits of stone masonry over brick masonry in foundation 2) What ... A: Raju, One of the oldest materials in the world - concrete - is still the best product for ... | |
| pitched basement floor | 8/29/2007 |
| Q: I want to finish my basement but the floor is pitched toward the floor drain. I wanted to finish ... A: Darren, I think it would depend on how severe or steep the pitch is whether or not to level the ... | |
| backfill after basement waterproofing | 8/23/2007 |
| Q: We had our weeping tile done and waterproofing (leaky basement). They backfilled with the dirt they ... A: Jennifer, The correct way to provide drainage to a basement is: after pouring the footing and walls, ... | |
| QS- Commercial | 8/15/2007 |
| Q: i would like to know the advantages and disadvantages of using approximaate quantites as an ... A: Rebekah, Quantity surveying will not change between now and 2010. The Surveyor must "quantify" land ... | |
| QS- Commercial | 8/14/2007 |
| Q: i would like to know the advantages and disadvantages of using approximaate quantites as an ... A: Rebehka, As a general rule, "approximate" and "estimates" are somewhat interchangeable, but - as a ... | |
| concrete floor refinishing | 8/8/2007 |
| Q: My house is 32 years old. We are refinishing the garage, 470 sq. ft. The concrete floor is cracked, ... A: Ron, The polymer concrete is strong and probably very durable. I would be cautious about existing ... | |
| Load capacity per psf | 8/1/2007 |
| Q: I have built a 16'x18' room in a warehouse. I planned for a floor on top for lockers for the guys to ... A: David, I suspect you should have asked the question before doing the work. I am not sure, by your ... | |
| Tile over Asphalt tiles | 7/26/2007 |
| Q: I'm would like to tile my house with ceramic tiles the only problem is there all ready is Asphalt ... A: Not a good idea. Ceramic tile is set in either a mortar (cement) mixture or a premixed "thin set" ... | |
| concrete recipe | 7/12/2007 |
| Q: I need to know the best recipe to produce 1 cubic meter of concrete 350 grade. specific gravity of ... A: John, I am accustomed to dealing in cubic yards or square feet so you will have to transpose for ... | |
| how could someone become entwined in a crane's arm and crushed? | 7/2/2007 |
| Q: This happened to someone on a construction job site and I don't know what that means and how it ... A: James, Keep in mind - OSHA is a federal government agency and the bureaucratic process is slow. I'm ... | |
| how could someone become entwined in a crane's arm and crushed? | 7/1/2007 |
| Q: This happened to someone on a construction job site and I don't know what that means and how it ... A: James, Yes - very possible. And yes, it could be either an operator error or mechanical failure. ... | |
| Concrete Slab on Grade | 6/19/2007 |
| Q: I am having a new nome built in Florida and I noticed that the contractor placed the block on the ... A: Neil, You are correct. Normally a three day cure time is minimum. Slabs on grade are not as great ... | |
| Plumbing vent | 6/10/2007 |
| Q: I am designing a coffee shop in an existing space. The kitchen is going to have a 3 compartment ... A: Carlos, Foremost - you should not open or penetrate the 2 hour wall. A penetration will destroy the ... | |
| Strongest building material | 6/4/2007 |
| Q: I have a project in which I have to build a biosphere that will last 1000 years under water/ground ... A: Who thinks up these projects?? I suppose the day will arrive when we will need biospheres to ... | |
| Project management question | 5/17/2007 |
| Q: Discuss how the criteria used in the selection of the appropriate procurement system can dictate the ... A: The construction industry is huge, cumbersome and fragmented which is dependent on small businesses. ... | |
| Spotted Concrete | 5/14/2007 |
| Q: My house is one year old. Our concrete driveway, front sidewalk and porch have spots all over them. ... A: I wish there was a really good solution to your problem. Concrete has many variables including, ... | |
| concrete driveway problem | 4/25/2007 |
| Q: I am buying a new construction home. The driveway was poured about 6 months ago in the winter. The ... A: Concrete poured in freezing conditions can certainly have problems if not properly prepared. When ... | |
| tendering | 4/24/2007 |
| Q: Please could you tell me the meaning of the terms open tendering and selective tendering with ... A: "Tendering" is a word used when "making an offer" or when proposing an offer such as "tendering a ... | |
| FRP fiberglass reinforced plastic | 4/10/2007 |
| Q: Do you have idea where could I get two sheets 4x8' FRP panels smooth finish (white). Thank you ... A: My apologies for taking so long to answer. I think you should consider "plastic laminate" sheets ... | |
| FRP fiberglass reinforced plastic | 4/8/2007 |
| Q: Do you have idea where could I get two sheets 4x8' FRP panels smooth finish (white). Thank you A: I went to the internet and on Google search found any number of manufacturers and/or sellers of FRP ... | |
| grade line transfer | 4/4/2007 |
| Q: im learning how to lay storm &sewer pipe and im put in a situation to were i need to know how to use ... A: Please excuse my delay in answering you query. I have unexpected house guests (snowbirds). A ... | |
| Shower | 4/2/2007 |
| Q: I have a friend who had a shower installed by a well known company. They had a smaller shower the ... A: Please excuse my delay in responding. (Living in Florida attacts long lost relatives and I had five ... | |
| Shower | 3/29/2007 |
| Q: I have a friend who had a shower installed by a well known company. They had a smaller shower the ... A: I need a little more information to be sure I understand the question. It sounds like your friends ... | |
| Blotchy Concrete | 3/26/2007 |
| Q: Last year I hired a local concrete guy to come and do the steps up to my house and the sidewalk in ... A: Michael, Perhaps - because next winter it will freeze again and if there are any weak spots in the ... | |
| Blotchy Concrete | 3/25/2007 |
| Q: Last year I hired a local concrete guy to come and do the steps up to my house and the sidewalk in ... A: Michael, I don't quite understand what you mean by "long term effects". Concrete will change with ... | |
| Blotchy Concrete | 3/24/2007 |
| Q: Last year I hired a local concrete guy to come and do the steps up to my house and the sidewalk in ... A: Concrete in the winter can be a problem. Adding extra cement is not necessarily recommended. More ... | |
| wood boxes | 3/5/2007 |
| Q: I am biulding wood boxes.The butt hinges I am using for the lids do not lay flat against the back. ... A: Butt type hinges are generally mortised into the wood so the hinge plate is flush with the wood. ... | |
| tool needed | 1/28/2007 |
| Q: This may be a dumb question, but I am just looking for a type of tool and need to know what to shop ... A: Know the problem and I hope this is a help. Unfortunately, it may require two people but one will ... | |
| plaster cracks | 1/8/2007 |
| Q: What are various factors of plaster cracking?How should we come to know whether the particular crack ... A: There are several reasons or causes of plaster cracks. First though - is it really plaster? ... | |
| strongest building material | 12/19/2006 |
| Q: I'm in sixth grade doing a project and needed help. what would be the strongest building material ... A: If we look to history, the temples and buildings of ancient Rome and Greece would give us a clue. ... | |
| water proofing solutions | 12/12/2006 |
| Q: i am researching about methods of water proofing on an old flat felt roof through which water leaks ... A: Repairs vary depending on what you consider a "flat" roof. A level roof, with no pitch, is best ... | |
Construction Industry
Answers by Expert:
Roger Zona
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.
Experience
After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.
Organizations
Previously - NAHA
Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)
Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column
Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column
Education/Credentials
Michigan State University
University of Detroit
BS in Engineering
Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family.
I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit.
I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision.
I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.