ENGINEERING ARTICLES

Explore the following articles, all related to engineering.

HVAC Commissioning 101
by Evan Parganos

Why Commission? HVAC Commissioning is a thorough and comprehensive testing of a mechanical system’s performance. Many owners question why they should spend more money to "fix" a system the contractor is being paid to build. Commissioning can reduce operating and maintenance costs, improve the comfort of a building's occupants, and extend the life of equipment. The onetime investment in commissioning can result in major costs savings. According to a report titled “The Cost Effectiveness of Commercial-Buildings Commissioning,” (Mills E et al. 2004. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. LBNL report #56637) the average operating costs of a commissioned building range from 8 to 20 percent below that of a noncommissioned building. Read more >

Architects and Engineers, Form and Function. Working Together is the Key!
by Evan Parganos

Architects often complain that engineers couldn't care less about what the space looks like. Engineers complain that all architects care about is what the space looks like! With architects and engineers working so closely together in the construction industry for decades, why does this gap still exist? It is usually due to miscommunications in the early stages of the project. Read more >

Avoiding Change Orders: How to Keep Costs Down and Your Project on Schedule
by Evan Parganos

Change orders can be a major obstacle to the completion of a successful construction project.

Change orders in the construction industry are by no means unusual, but they typically increase the cost of and time to complete the project. Because they were not allocated for from the beginning, these unwelcome surprises can cause tension between the design team and the contractors/subcontractors on site, as well as frustration on the part of the owner. Read more >

What to Expect from Your MEP (Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing) Consultant
by Evan Parganos

Whether you are an architect, building owner or engineer, a time will come when you require the services of an MEP consulting firm. Of course, you'll want the highest quality work for a great price. Keep these prerequisites in mind as you research the best team for your project. Read more >

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