‘Testing’ versus ‘listing’

Concerns regarding the difference between ‘testing’ and ‘listing’ (or ‘certifying’) continue to be discussed and debated across Canada. Both the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) and the various provincial and territorial codes mandate products meet test standards designed to provide specific levels of product quality and performance. This article attempts to highlight and clarify some of the misconceptions regarding product testing and listings, why listings are necessary, and how to avoid potential liabilities.

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Harnessing the all-in-one aspects of tilt-up

Constructing buildings requires the skills and knowledge to meet the demands of speed of construction, energy efficiency, resiliency to environmental conditions, cost efficiency, and long-term durability. The tilt-up concrete method, which speaks to all these attributes, has steadily grown since the 1940s due in large part to the development of the mobile crane and advancements in ready-mixed concrete.

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Five steps to an emergency response plan

This year, Canadians have seen some severe weather. Currently, Southern Alberta is still rebuilding after one of the worst floods in the province’s history. High River, Canmore, and Calgary saw more than 100 mm (4 in.) of rain in less than 48 hours. A total of 32 states of emergency were declared, and communities were placed under evacuation orders. Damage included the Scotiabank Saddledome being submerged, Highway 1 was washed away, and entire towns were cut off by rising waters, along with mudslides.

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Ensuring Energy Efficiency: Specifying windows and curtain walls for cold climates

New insulating glass and framing options can help reduce conductive heat loss from commercial building envelopes in cold climates, while minimizing potential for condensation on interior surfaces. High-performance framing options include three types of thermal barrier systems: polyurethane poured barriers, polyamide nylon thermal struts, and non-structural polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) separators.

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Innovative design for education

In the 21st century, to specialize in innovative designs for educational facilities means responding to constantly evolving settings, models, and technologies. Successful projects encourage curiosity, exploration, and collaboration amongst students and staff; they are predicated on the principle every space has the potential to be a learning space.

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