CONVEYING THE DESIGN SOLUTION TO CONTRACTORS
The art of detailing is the expression of design solutions in graphic form in a manner in which the field crew can understand and implement. All too many designers try to provide drawn details that are not fully developed to communicate design intent to contractors—often with dire results.
Most roofing crews I know are only fair mind readers. The final design should be graphically clear and communicative. All components should be noted, as well as how they are to be installed. Be specific. Remember, you are the designer. As the famous architect Mies Van de Rohe once said, “God is in the details”. Some of these details can become very complex and, thus, I suggest step-by-step details be utilized. It is not uncommon to have three or more progression details. A designer with a background in construction will be very helpful.The proper specification should, of course, provide the material particulars, many of which can be noted on the detail. A quality detail, well drawn and properly noted, in my opinion, will result in better results than just a specification.
GETTING IT DONE
Once the design is conceived, the challenge then moves to achieving it. A well-designed solution, properly graphically delineated, really doesn’t need an installation shop drawing, though a fabrication shop drawing for the curb might be needed.
The concept and installation should be reviewed in the preconstruction meeting, attended most importantly by the foreman who will be onsite. I have found that explaining the design concept and importance of various components, asking for the contractor’s input, brings them into the team and often gets their buy-in.Another key to achieving positive results is procuring a correct mock- up. The first order of business is to be sure that the mock-up is installed by the same personnel who will be installing it onsite. This is an important matter that should be required in the specifications. I have found that being onsite for the first few days of installation to ensure appropriate installation and continuity is vital.
Once the roof edge curb has been installed, the roof system can be in- stalled. This is followed by roof edge sheet-metal cladding.
FOREFRONT OF CHANGE
Energy conservation is something all school children are now learning. The reduction of greenhouse gases can be greatly affected by a reduction in the use of fossil fuels to produce energy.
The roofing industry is on the fore- front of being able to substantially contribute to energy-use reduction. Will it be easy? Not very often. Achieving something of substantial benefit requires intelligence, empathy, sacrifice, talent, dedication, perseverance and belief.
While we may not all agree on the whys and needs, we should all band together to achieve our country’s goal of energy conservation.So go ahead. I challenge you: Raise the roof edge.
PHOTOS and ILLUSTRATIONS: HUTCHINSON DESIGN GROUP LLC
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