This, the first entry of a Leason-Learned blog, is intended to address the eyes that were directed at me in our Monday morning meeting. It is not that I did not have anything to share but rather my research was not yet complete.
This is an attempt to provide information before the meetings so that if there are discussions we can have a quick round table during the QC segment. It seems rational and logical to have a shared conversation concerning issues that determine the final product for our clients and the Monday meetings are the one time we are all present.
Topic-Details
Roof Deck
Exposed roof decks are an interesting beast. Structural elements are often not thought of as gypsum board and therein lies the issue. There can always be more than one solution to a design issue but some front end work is worth while.
- Roof deck openings should be framed - make sure this is clear in structural specifications and or general notes. Even small openings such as roof drains typically have frames at openings and most structural firms include a typical detail.
- Roofing insulation should be fastened with screws and there are different lengths of screws to accomplish this task. Most contractors will not think twice about the length until the final walk and the roof paint looks like stalactites are affixed.
- Recheck roof hatch details - exposed jagged decking can be a liability. If an architectural detailed section is used, then a callout for a break-metal closure between curb and deck should be included.
Structural Elements
Exposed structural elements, such as columns, are often incorporated into the aesthetic and if not sitting out in an open space will sometimes reside near a wall.
- Review the distance between the outside face of a structural column and the adjacent surface. Either leave a workable space to finish wall behind, or place the column near enough to wall so that thin caulk revel can be used. Seeing a 1-2 inch sealant joint between a wall and column might not be the look we intended.
- When placing columns outside of walls, consideration to wall ratings and openings becomes important. This is something that is not normally caught in the shop drawing phase and even more difficult to remedy during erection.
NOTE:Interiors need to know where columns are out of wall.
