Technically Speaking - A Building Podcast

12 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 months ago - ★★★★★ - 7 ratings

Engineering and Technical Consultants (ETC) is a team of engineers, architects and building professionals helping property managers & owners identify and correct building problems. We share practical information, along with industry tips-and-tricks from the challenging construction world. There's no hidden agenda - we're just here to serve as your trusted advisors. @etc-web.com

How To Education Business Management architectural building building defects building design building envelope building owners structural buildings construction engineering
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Episodes

Pavement Project Best Practices

November 01, 2023 17:10 - 23 minutes - 21.9 MB

When installed correctly and with recommended maintenance, pavement can retain its durability for more than 25 years. However, a successful pavement project depends on numerous factors, including having a clear scope of work, a competent contractor, and a thorough bidding process. To discuss all facets of a pavement project, Host Joe Shuffleton speaks with expert Ron Brookman. Ron has more than 47 years of experience in the Washington-Baltimore area in pavement installation, reconstruction, ...

EIFS: Wall Cladding

November 04, 2021 04:00 - 26 minutes - 23.9 MB

Discussion Points: [1:23] Trey describes the process of becoming certified by the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry. [2:47] Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) has been known by many other names in the past. [3:42] Trey explains the process of installing wall cladding, providing each step in detail. [6:45] In Trey’s experience, he sees vertical trowel lanes used for drainage in EIFS. [7:57] Do finishing top coats provide a weather-tight configuration? [9:29] The thr...

Structural Integrity in Buildings

September 08, 2021 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.9 MB

Discussion Points: [1:10] Nick describes what constitutes structural soundness and the conditions that may lead to structural damage. [3:05] Initial design and maintenance are key factors in reducing occurrences of slab overload. [7:16] Long-term neglect raises the likelihood of building collapse. [8:18] Unsafe conditions and deferred repairs or maintenance can cause serious damage and injury. [10:40] Tell-tale signs of a lack of structural integrity in buildings. [15:55] Reserve inspe...

Balancing Beauty and Function in Architecture

August 11, 2021 04:00 - 22 minutes - 20.2 MB

Discussion Points: [1:35] Resurfacing a balcony with carpeting, or other material can break building codes and become unsafe. [8:15] Surface coatings such as aggregate, can protect concrete balconies as well as provide comfort. [9:30] General rules for creating a safe and conscious garden on a balcony. [12:52] Seal coating pavement with cracks is not a sustainable repair solution. [14:30] Brick buildings are beautiful but do not let destructive ivy grow on them. [18:00] Painting brick ...

Cracks In Masonry Walls

August 03, 2021 15:22 - 21 minutes - 19.3 MB

Discussion Points: [1:35] Bobby describes some root causes for cracks in masonry walls. [3:12] Control joints and/or wall ties are necessary for masonry walls due to the possible expansion and corrosion of brick material. [5:20] Drainage problems and water damage to brick will cause bulges and cracks in walls. [7:55] Causes for cracks in masonry walls can differ by geographical area. [9:16] Possible outcomes if cracks in brick masonry walls are not properly fixed. [14:16] Evaluating cr...

Vetting & Hiring Contractors

July 27, 2021 04:00 - 19 minutes - 17.4 MB

Discussion Points: [1:34] Information on properly qualifying contractors. [5:25] Smaller tasks help vet contractors before hiring them for larger projects. [6:47] Payment and performance bonds are part of a contractor’s fiduciary responsibility. [8:45] Investigating a problem for a tenant and evaluating a contractor’s proposal. [13:44] Every county is different, are permits required? Resources: ETC Website Listen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Cracks in Concrete Structures

July 19, 2021 04:00 - 22 minutes - 20.2 MB

Discussion Points: [1:09] The three types of shrinkage cracks and how to determine if a crack in concrete is structural or cosmetic. [3:06] How chlorides and other contaminants cause corrosion in a structure’s steel frame. [4:43] A crack in concrete is akin to an open wound in the structure. [6:41] Understanding freeze-thaw cracks, restraint cracks, and other common causes of concrete cracks. [12:06] Examining the possible hazards if cracks in concrete are left unrepaired. [14:04] Eval...

Retaining Walls: Guidelines for Installation and Replacement

May 26, 2021 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MB

Discussion Points: [1:34] How long a retaining wall will last depends on whether it is built with timber, concrete or masonry, or segmental block. [7:46] Recommended maintenance for retaining walls. [10:26] Typical cost associated with installing or replacing retaining walls. [13:00] Top three considerations when choosing a retaining wall replacement. [18:01] Geotechnical reports and permits are common requirements before installation or replacement of a retaining wall. [20:39] Changed...

Cleaning Masonry Wall Stains: How-to Restore Brick’s Natural Beauty

May 19, 2021 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.6 MB

Discussion Points: [1:13] Before removing a stain, find the origin. [3:20] Take care when pressure washing common white calcium stains. [5:33] Advice for removing graffiti from high-traffic areas. [7:46] Painting a brick building is inadvisable and costly to reverse. [12:03] Tips for reducing the cost of external building maintenance. [16:01] Rules-of-thumb for repointing a masonry wall. [21:28] Flashings can reduce water intrusion around tops of walls and coping stones. Resources: ...

Attract New Renters with Simple Design Strategies

May 12, 2021 04:00 - 27 minutes - 25.3 MB

Discussion Points: [1:09] Simple upgrades that do not require a permit or approval to increase the eye appeal of a building or units. [3:04] Tips for upgrading kitchens and storage areas to increase rental income. [8:00] Puck lighting creates an attractive ambiance under kitchen cabinets. [9:21] Bumper stops and hinges can refine cabinets and doors. [11:51] Prospective renters notice enhanced fixtures in kitchens and baths. [14:02] Corridor and common area considerations for apartment ...

Brick Veneer Walls: How to Avoid Structural Failure

May 05, 2021 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MB

Discussion Points: [1:01] The structural failure possibilities of water infiltration due to inadequate installation of control joints. [3:38] How to fix cracks due to the lack of control joints. [7:28] Cracks in parapet walls and the Brick Industry Association recommendations for control joints. [8:17] The importance of the binding of brick to mortar, and wall ties. [13:06] Antiquated header courses increase the structural failure rate. [15:45] Common problems with corrugated wall tie...

Welcome to Technically Speaking!

April 23, 2021 16:49 - 1 minute - 1.98 MB