Automatic Door Unlock System “Worth the Money” Consider spending a little more money on a convenient digital unlocking system. I have owned enough buildings in my time that keys are the devil! There are a lot of digital systems on the market that are worth taking a look at. [...]
Main Level Door Knobs! “Know What to Use When” ADA compliance dictates that we need to use lever type knobs on the main floor level. You do, however, have design options. There are many different lever designs as well as finish options. This article will define the different types [...]
Work the Local Historical System “The Way It Is Supposed to Work!” This façade project has a great deal of positive examples. We had a typical slip cover on this façade that had to go! It is always a bit anxious when you don’t know what is left behind [...]
When Is The Best Time To Bid? “Build the Relationship” Planning your construction timeframe out can save you $! There are a lot of factors one needs to consider regarding when to get a price quote from a contractor. Cost efficiency “101” certainly starts with seasons of the year [...]
What Is a Knox Box? “Emergency Access Box” Check with your local fire department and ask if a Knox Box is required in your community. This simple box is pretty non destructible. It is a small box safe that is attached to the side of your building. It will [...]
Upper Windows - Can I Replace? There is a lot to cover on upper windows. Keep these simple design elements in mind as you replace them . . . Yes, you can replace them! We are only covering flat top systems in this article. Steel Lintel - This [...]
How Many Upper Level Exits Are Required?
Tuckpointing a Painted Facade “Organize Your Painter with Your Mason” Rarely will I recommend you paint an unpainted façade, but if it is already painted and you are in need of tuckpointing, consider this. Remove the mortar, paint the face of the bricks, then fill joints with [...]
Transom Windows over Storefront “To Do or Not to Do?” Lets start this discussion with a little bit of history. Windows over doors and above your storefront glass was meant to do a couple of things back then. Remember in 1900, air conditioning and proper lighting were hard to [...]
Upper Floor Window Eyesore “That Upstairs Window Is Ugly!!” Take a good look at the middle three windows compared to the ones on either side. Yes, the upper level has a dropped ceiling that cuts the upper sash in half. I’ll tell you a secret—so do the middle windows, [...]
