Navigating the Code: How a Second Look Saved a Clinic Project Time and Money

 Navigating the Code: How a Second Look Saved a Clinic Project Time and Money

Have you ever been told a building code requirement was going to add significant cost and complexity to your project? Sometimes, a second look can reveal a smarter, more efficient path.

I was brought into a clinic project for exactly this reason. The initial design for the new Calgary clinic location included a costly new barrier-free washroom within the tenant space. The team was prepared to build it, but they wanted to be sure it was truly necessary.

After reviewing the architectural plans and the Alberta Building Code, I found that it wasn't. The existing building already provided fully compliant, accessible washrooms for the floor's occupant load. We provided a formal letter of interpretation citing specific code clauses, which allowed the designer to remove the redundant washroom from the plans.

The lesson? A deep dive into the code isn't just about finding problems—it's about finding opportunities for efficiency. We helped save the client time and money, all while maintaining full compliance.

If you're facing a confusing code challenge on your project, let's connect! I help architects, designers, and business owners navigate the complexities of the building code.

#BuildingCodeConsultant #ConstructionSolutions #CostSaving #ArchitecturalDesign #AlbertaConstruction #ProjectEfficiency #BuildingCode

Canadian Builders & Investors: A Critical Check for Your Imported Materials

 Canadian Builders & Investors: A Critical Check for Your Imported Materials

As a Canadian builder or property investor, you're likely evaluating cost-effective options, including imported construction materials from China or other countries. While global sourcing can be competitive, one step is non-negotiable for compliance and risk management.

Before you proceed, you must ensure these products are certified for use in Canada.

As per the National Building Code of Canada (NBC), compliance can only be determined by:

✅ An evaluation report from the Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC)

✅ A listing by ULC

✅ A report from an organization approved by the provincial Building Administrator

This isn't a suggestion—it's the law.

Here’s your essential pre-purchase checklist:

➡️ Ask your supplier: "Do you have a valid CCMC evaluation report for this product?"

➡️ Verify: "Is this product ULC listed?"

➡️ Confirm: If it's another certification, is the issuer approved by the provincial authority?

Using unverified products is a massive financial gamble. If your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)—the building inspector—refuses to accept it, you face costly delays, rework, and potential liability.

Protect your project, your investment, and your reputation. Always demand the correct Canadian certification.

#BuildingCode #ConstructionCanada #PropertyInvestment #RiskManagement #CCMC #ULC #BuildingMaterials #ConstructionSafety #AHJ #CanadianBuilder

Tired of "Alternative Solutions"? Let's Talk About "Right-Sized" Plans Instead

 Tired of "Alternative Solutions"? Let's Talk About "Right-Sized" Architectural Plans Instead.

"You should try an Alternative Solution." If you're a building owner facing permit delays, you've probably heard this.

But I often advise my clients to be cautious. While valuable in specific cases, alternative solutions can introduce significant cost, complexity, and risk. Why choose a difficult path when a simpler one exists?

The problem isn't always a lack of creativity—it's that the initial plans weren't "right-sized" for the project and the code.

A "Right-Sized" plan is:

- Fully Compliant using well-understood, prescriptive code paths.

- Optimized for Value, eliminating costly over-engineering that doesn't enhance safety or function.

- Designed for Approval, with clear documentation that makes the plans examiner's job easy.

My expertise is in auditing and refining your architectural drawings to achieve this. We work to:

1. Identify & remove overkill that's slowing you down.

2. Clarify the intent behind every design decision.

3. Strengthen your submission so it stands on its own merits, without needing a complicated alternative solution.

Don't pay a premium for complexity. Let's build a case for simplicity and get your project moving.

Have you had an experience where an "Alternative Solution" created more problems than it solved? Share below.

#ConstructionManagement #ValueEngineering #BuildingCode #PropertyDevelopment #CostSaving #RightSizedDesign

Important definition--Horizontal Exit

 

Important #definition--Horizontal Exit

Horizontal exit means an exit from one #building to another by means of a #doorway, #vestibule, #walkway, #bridge or #balcony.

#horizontalexit #buildingcode

Ramps

 Ramps

A ramp located in a barrier-free path of travel shall have a level area not less than 1700 mm by 1700 mm at the #top and #bottom

and at #intermediate levels of a #ramp leading to a #door, so that on the latch side the level area extends not less than

i) 600 mm beyond the edge of the door opening where the door opens towards the ramp, or

ii) 300 mm beyond the edge of the door opening where the door opens away from the ramp.

Quoted from NBC2020

#barrierfreepath #buildingcode

A-3.4.3.4. Clear Height and Width.

 A-3.4.3.4. Clear Height and Width. 

Clear height is intended to be measured from a line tangent to the nosings extended to the underside of the lowest element above the walking surface, over the clear width of the exit (see Figure A-3.4.3.4.). Examples of low elements above the walking surface include light fixtures or sprinkler heads and piping.

Clear width is intended to be measured from a line tangent to horizontal protrusions such as handrails.

Quoted from NBC2020

#clearheight #clearwidth #buildingcode #sprinklerheads #lightfixture #handrail

This article is important

3.2.3.13.2) If an unenclosed exterior exit #stair or ramp could be exposed to fire from an opening in the exterior wall of the building it serves, the opening in the exterior #wall of the building shall be protected in conformance with the requirements of Sentence (4) where the opening in the exterior wall of the building is within 3m horizontally and

a) less than 10m below the exit stair or ramp, or

b) less than 5m above the exit stair or ramp.

#exteriorexitstair #exteriorwall #exitstair #exitramp #buildingcode

Quiz

1.  A distillery plant is proposed on the main floor of a 20 storey residential building. Does this comply with the NBC2020?

a) Yes

b) No

2. A flour mill and a jail in a building are required to have:

a) 1h fire separation

b) 2h fire separation

c) 3h fire separation

d) 4h firewall

3. The required fire separation between a dry cleaning plant and a clothing store is: 

a) 1h

b) 2h

c) 3h

d) 4h

4. Noncombustible construction can be supported on combustible construction with the same fire-resistance rating.

a) true

b) false

5. Is a parapet always required for a firewall?

a) Yes

b) No

6) A closure to be installed in a 1 h fire separation needs a fire-protection rating of

a) 1 h

b) 20 min

c) 30 min

d) 45 min