New Construction Design
For new construction projects, many prominent and nationally-known architectural firms rely on French Engineering to assist them during the Design Development and Construction Document phases of the project for material selection and specification, conceptual sketches of proposed details, evaluation of thermal and vapor flow (dewpoint) characteristics of the building envelope, assessment of thermal expansion and contraction of cladding materials, specification of expansion joint locations and sizes, constructability analysis, etc.
These services typically result in designs that provide superior performance after construction, as well as extended service life, often at the same or reduced costs. Our experience in performing forensic investigations of failed cladding systems allows us to apply the “lessons learned” to these new construction projects. The avoidance of problems during construction generally pays for itself in regard to the minimal fees expended.
Design Peer Review
For new construction projects, many building owners and developers, general contractors, as well as prominent and nationally-known architectural firms, rely on French Engineering to perform an objective, third party Design Peer Review of the project construction documents prepared by others. These documents are reviewed for proper material selection and specification, conflicts between the specifications and drawings, adherence to applicable building codes, constructability and anticipated performance of proposed details, evaluation of thermal and vapor flow (dewpoint) characteristics of the building envelope, assessment of thermal expansion and contraction of cladding materials, specification of expansion joint locations and sizes, etc.
This peer review service typically results in recommendations for design modifications or construction techniques that provide superior performance after construction, as well as extended service life, often at the same or reduced costs. Our experience in performing forensic investigations of failed cladding systems allows us to apply the “lessons learned” to these new construction projects. The avoidance of problems during construction generally pays for itself in regard to the minimal fees expended.
Constructability Analysis
Prior to construction, the engineers and designers at French Engineering can evaluate proposed building designs and construction details for ease of construction and the ability to be incorporated into an existing design.
Due to our special niche in the construction industry, FEI has experience with many different types of designs and details, and has been able to document which ones can be readily achieved with consistent good results by today’s work force. Our experience in this area allows us to anticipate and foresee potential problems regarding material compatibility, sequencing conflicts, access, long term performance, maintenance frequency, eventual replacement, and many other issues prior to construction so that appropriate steps may be taken to either avoid the conflict, adequately coordinate the construction sequencing, or else properly plan for and maintenance before the fact. Thousands of dollars may be saved on a project due to increased construction efficiency, fewer delays, reduced maintenance costs, and overall improved performance of the building envelope.
Performance Evaluations
The engineers and designers at French Engineering can evaluate proposed building designs and construction details for anticipated performance either prior to or after construction.
Due to our special niche in the construction industry, FEI observes many different types of designs and details, and has been able to document which ones provide acceptable performance under real world conditions, and which ones do not! Our experience in this area allows us to anticipate the relative performance of alternative details so that an informed decision may be made regarding final design solutions.
We can also perform a life-cycle cost (LCC) evaluation to assist in determining the best alternative among several design choices. For example, which roof would be best for your project?: [1] a single-ply, mechanically-fastened thermoplastic roof membrane with a service life of 10 years and an initial cost of $150,000, or else [2] a three-ply, built-up membrane and granule-surfaced, modified bitumen cap sheet with a service life of 20 years and an initial cost of $190,000? What is the Present Worth and Future Value of these alternatives, including consideration of the periodic maintenance costs? French Engineering can help you sort out these types of problems, and many others that effect the performance and longevity of you building and its numerous components.
Contact us to discuss your upcoming project with our engineering consultants. We proudly offer our services for commercial and institutional buildings nationwide.
