Engineering & Testing

Myth Buster: ICC Provides Clarity on New Product Code Compliance Approval Process

June 18, 2014

The rules regarding the duties and powers of the code official [building official in the International Building Code (IBC)] have been in place for several decades and are well understood by those who administer the codes. 

SBCA Sustains Negative Vote on AWC Shearwall Design Standard

June 10, 2014

SBCA has sent a letter to the American Wood Council (AWC) regarding the association's participation in the revision and balloting process for the WDSC on the Special Design Provisions Wind and Seismic (SDPWS) standard.

House Will Last 500 Years with 'Perfect Walls'

May 27, 2014

This article explores the concept of building a house that would have a life cycle of 500 years.

Insurance Company Eyes 'Disproportionately New' Post-Frame Construction Collapses

May 19, 2014

Nationwide Insurance’s loss experience with post-frame buildings is disproportionately represented by newly constructed facilities. The company recently gave a presentation discussing common oversights in post-frame building design and construction.

Concrete Used to Make New, Stronger Wood Product

March 31, 2014

This concrete-composite lumber is rated for direct contact with water or soil and is fire-resistant, according to its manufacturer.

Newly Created Wood Foam an Effective Organic Alternative?

March 17, 2014

An effective new form of insulation created entirely from wood has been created by researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Wood Research.

New Fire Station & Ambulance Garage Built Using Trusses

March 10, 2014

The Waco Fire Department’s new Station 7 on North Fifth Street and an ambulance garage in Newton are being built with wood trusses.

Fire Service Investigates Tall Wood Buildings

March 10, 2014

The Fire Protection Research Foundation (Foundation) recently released a report titled, "Fire Safety Challenges of Tall Wood Buildings." 

'Truss Me!' App Training Next Generation of Engineers

March 3, 2014

An iPad app designed to teach children about structural engineering has taken the US by storm, reaching #22 on the download charts for the iconic tablet brand.

BMC Initiative Reaches Out to Designers & Architects

February 24, 2014

Boise, Idaho-based BMC launched a brand extension called BMC Design, aimed at boosting service for existing customers and appealing to homeowners, designers and architects.