Follow us as part of the AEC market for product announcements, expert information and industry updates for wall, ceiling, floor, roof and stair access products that create safer, more accessible commercial buildings.

Bookmark & Share

smoke vent, smoke vents, Safety, Commercial Roofing, Fire Safety, Building Products, Building Codes

What's the Difference? Smoke Vent Labeling

Fire Safety Certification Differences

In the realm of fire safety, the performance and reliability of smoke vents are critical. Two of the most recognized testing and certification standards for these products are UL 793 and FM 4430. While both standards aim to ensure the effectiveness of smoke venting systems, they have distinct differences that can impact the choice of products for commercial and industrial applications. In this blog, we'll explore these variations, shedding light on the distinctions between UL 793 and FM 4430 product labeling and what it means for your fire safety strategies.

Read More
stair tread, building stairs, Safety, stairways, commercial stairs, stair nosings, Building Codes

Don't Let Title 24 Trip You Up

Beyond Accessibility: Unpacking California's Title 24 and Visually Contrasting Nosings

In the intricate world of stair treads and nosings, one often hears a lot about Title 24 and its association with brightly colored nosings embedded into concrete stairs. This design choice serves a crucial purpose, making it easier for the visually impaired to identify the leading edge of a stair tread. However, there is a common misunderstanding that California Title 24 pertains solely to the accessibility aspect of the California Building Code. In reality, Title 24 encompasses a much broader spectrum, composed of 12 distinct "Parts," including the Administrative Code, Building Code, Mechanical Code, and Fire Code, among others. In essence, Title 24 represents the comprehensive California Building Standards Code, reaching far beyond accessibility considerations.

Read More
Entrance Flooring System, Building Maintenance, Floor Mat, Building Entrance Mat, Building Entrance, Entrance Flooring, Building Air Quality

The Silent Hero: Commercial Entrance Flooring

Unveiling the Multifaceted Benefits of Commercial Entrance Flooring

A commercial entrance is more than just a physical threshold, it's the gateway to your business. Every step taken across that entrance holds the potential to shape perceptions, enhance safety, and impact the indoor environment. In this blog, we'll explore how a well-designed commercial entrance flooring system goes beyond aesthetics to profoundly influence safety, create lasting first impressions, improve indoor air quality, and even trim building maintenance costs. Let's dive into the multifaceted impact of this often-overlooked element.

Read More
Roof Hatch, roof hatches, rooftop access, Fall Protection, Safety, Commercial Roofing

4 Effective Ways to Enhance Fall Protection for Your Roof Hatch

Securing Safe Rooftop Access

When it comes to rooftop access, safety should always be a top priority. Your commercial roof hatch, while providing essential access, can also pose significant fall hazards if not adequately protected. Fortunately, there are several ways to enhance fall protection around your roof hatch, ensuring the safety of your personnel and complying with regulatory requirements. In this blog, we'll explore four effective methods to achieve this:

Read More
Fire Safety, Building Codes

Specifying Fire Extinguisher Cabinets

Designing for Safety: The Right Fire Extinguisher Cabinets

Fire safety is a critical concern for every building, whether it's a commercial office space, a residential complex, or an industrial facility. In the event of a fire emergency, quick and easy access to fire extinguishers can make all the difference. To ensure both safety and aesthetics, specifying the right fire extinguisher cabinets is essential. In this article, we'll delve into the key factors to consider when specifying fire extinguisher cabinets.

Read More
Floor Door, Floor Hatch, Building Maintenance, Building Products

Exploring the Advantages of Non-Drainable Floor Doors

Safeguarding Industrial Spaces

When it comes to access solutions in commercial and industrial settings, floor doors play a crucial role. They provide access to utility spaces, basements, and other concealed areas while ensuring safety and convenience. While many are familiar with traditional floor doors equipped with drainage channels, non-drainable floor doors have been gaining popularity for specific applications. In this blog, we'll dive into the world of non-drainable floor doors, exploring their advantages and where they are most effectively used.

Read More
stair tread, building stairs, stairways, commercial stairs, stair nosings, Building Products, Building Codes

In the Details: The Size and Construction of Stair Nosings

The Critical Role of Stair Tread Nosings

Stairs, a fundamental element of architectural design, serve a practical purpose in connecting different levels of a building. While their functionality is evident, the safety and longevity of stairs often lie in the details, such as the size and construction of stair tread nosings. In this blog, we'll delve into the crucial considerations surrounding these elements, shedding light on their significance in both commercial and residential settings.

Read More
Access Doors, Safety, Building Design, hurricane, Building Products, Wall Access Doors, Building Codes

Benefits of Hurricane-Tested Exterior Access Doors

Fortifying Your Building: The Advantages of Hurricane-Tested Exterior Access Doors

When it comes to commercial buildings, safety and resilience are paramount. The impact of hurricanes and severe weather events can be devastating, making it essential to fortify every aspect of the structure. One often overlooked component is the exterior access door. As the 2023 hurricane season is already active with the US experiencing three tropical storms and one hurricane since January, we'll explore the numerous benefits of Florida-Approved hurricane-tested commercial building exterior Access Doors products, highlighting why they're a game-changer for modern construction.

Read More
expansion joints, Architecture, Building Design, Building Products

Unveiling the Significance of 8 Key Expansion Joints & Locations

Guardians of Architectural Longevity

Embarking on a journey through the world of construction, we find that expansion joints play a role akin to a masterful surgeon's scalpel, carefully dissecting intricate building structures. In this exploration, we'll unveil the artistry behind their placement and the vital role they play in maintaining structural integrity. 

Read More