Codes & Standards

2025 March

Codes Change Promote Enhanced Drying

In 2021, additional requirements were added to the International Building Code (IBC) 2510.6 Water-
Resistive Barriers of the Lathing and Furring for Cement Plaster section

2024 September

Getting It Right the First Time

When I give presentations to engineers, I like to ask the question, “How many of you have ever designed something that cannot physically be built? Raise your hand if you have.”

2024 July

Code Advocacy

In the building construction industry, we all have to work within the building codes—the rules for how buildings are constructed. But how do the codes get written and adopted into law, and what influence can...

2024 May

How Thick Is 20 Gauge Steel Framing?

This is a relatively simple question with a complex answer. I am currently planning an AWCI technical document that will go more in depth to assist architects and engineers with properly specifying steel framing thickness,...

2024 March

EIFS Inspectors

This article describes the EIFS inspector qualifications and previews some of the content in the recently updated EIFS—Doing It Right® module for EIFS inspectors.

January 2024

Building Codes to Local Laws

As we start a new year with the 2024 International Building Code now available, we also start a new code development cycle.

2023 November

Wall Fire Rating Details

I often get calls about specific fire rating details: Do I have to install this backer piece behind my control joint? Do butt joints have to be staggered? Is it OK to run wallboard vertically...

2023 September

Control Joints in Interior Gypsum

This month I want to cover interior gypsum applications. The joint requirements are different for exterior applications and for portland cement plaster.