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November 1, 2008
COLUMN : Code Arena | Codes & Standards

ICC Hearings Produce Some Disparities, But Also Some Favorable Results

My one prediction for the International Code Council final action hearings that took place in Minneapolis in September was that they were going to be quite lively— particularly with regards to the energy code discussions. There were 27 public comments that dealt with maximum U-factors for residential construction, and another 18 for maximum SHGC, also for residential construction. The hope ... more »
October 20, 2008
COLUMN : Code Arena | Codes & Standards

Lessons from the Ancient World

"I want a job like yours where I can get paid to write about what I did for my summer vacation," my son remarked. He was responding to my comments that I thought there were elements of Roman architecture, both ancient and medieval, that were relevant to today's development of U.S. building codes, and that I thought I would mention them in my next column for this magazine. We had just ... more »
August 15, 2008
COLUMN : Code Arena | Codes & Standards, Energy Efficiency

Last Chance for 2009 I-Codes

Many public comments submitted related to energy conservation
With nationwide emphasis on green building and possible federal legislation to mandate increased efficiency in codes, much of the recent input focuses on energy conservation. more »
June 1, 2008
COLUMN : Code Arena

Evaluation of "Green" Products

In a recent cartoon, a mother first offered her daughter a T-shirt made out of recycled cotton, then her son sandals soled with recycled tire treads. The punch line was one sibling observing to the other that perhaps they should have been more specific when they told their mom they wanted to wear something green for St. Patrick's Day. These days it seems that everyone is jumping on the ... more »
May 1, 2008
COLUMN : Code Arena

When Conditions are Extreme

Imagine you are sitting at home this evening and you hear the wind start to howl outside your door. You look out the window and see tree branches bending under the force of the wind. Your neighbor's trash can goes rolling on down the street.How you react to this might depend upon where you live. If you live in the Midwest, as I do, and the sky is sort of a funny shade of green, you head for the ... more »
April 15, 2008
COLUMN : Code Arena | Codes & Standards

When Conditions are Extreme

You have had an aneurysm break in the back of your brain, between your brain and your skull. We are going to send you to the University of Colorado Hospital, where they will treat you." I stared at the Denver airport paramedic who had said this to me, trying to absorb it.My first thought, of course, was, "I can't go to the hospital; I am going to miss my flight." They did send me ... more »
October 15, 2007
COLUMN : Code Arena | Codes & Standards

Holistic Approach Needed to Achieve Energy Efficiency Goals

If you have an ache in your belly, who do you go see—a family practitioner, a general practitioner or perhaps someone who specializes in gastroenterology or internal medicine. Medicine today has become so specialized that it is often difficult to know just who to call for help. And it is not uncommon for the recommendations of one specialist to conflict with the recommendations of another. ... more »

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Window and Door Manufacturers Hold Breath to Stay Afloat in 2009

What was the biggest industry story of 2008?

I join you for the last "Talk..." of 2008. John and I have truly enjoyed having this avenue for dialog with you this year. This little box is honestly one of our favorite weekly tasks... »

A stimulus program for replacement windows and doors…

Right now, there’s much talk about the need to bail out U.S. automakers. Those in favor say actions are necessary to save the economy from falling into... »

How black will your Black Friday be?

Ladies and gentlemen, this is my favorite holiday of the year. And no, I'm not talking turkey and football and pies. I'm talking shopping—it's almost Black Friday! Hey, I'm as thankful... »