As of February 24, 2024, a major change in federal design guidance took effect: the General Services Administration (GSA) has officially rescinded the PBS P-100 2024 and replaced it with the PBS Interim Core Building Standards (CBS). What does this mean? The new version of the CBS offers a streamlined set of design criteria, bringing… Read More
Did You Know? UFC Updates for Interior Electrical Systems
Did you know there have been recent updates to the UFC 3-520-01 guidelines for interior electrical systems? The new changes highlight the following: Surge Protective Devices (SPDs) can now be inside the panelboard. The surge counter must be visible and made by the same manufacturer as the panel. Conductor sizing now requires adjustments for ambient… Read More
Did You Know? DoD Building Code Update
Did you know a DoD building code was recently updated? This update changes the referenced versions of ICC codes from 2021 to 2024, as well as additional modifications, including anti-ligature requirements for barracks and dormitories. For more information, visit the Whole Building Design Guide website at https://www.wbdg.org/dod/ufc/ufc-1-200-01
The Curious History – and Continued Relevance – of Steam Heating
Steam heat is one of the oldest and most reliable heating systems in office buildings today. Other, newer technologies have come along that are more efficient. But removing old steam heating systems to replace them with more modern alternatives is cost prohibitive, so building owners who currently rely on steam heat have many incentives for… Read More
A Case for Round Ductwork
Rectangular ductwork has traditionally been used for HVAC renovation projects, especially for interior ductwork. Of late, round ductwork is being considered more as an option for external ductwork use, in the right conditions. Recently, when renovating multiple buildings as part of a single project, it became apparent that long runs of external ductwork should be… Read More