ConstructionAdvisorToday

What Happens When Changed Work Can't Be Forward-Priced?

In an ideal world, all changed work – all contract modifications – would be priced before the work commences. It is not always possible, however, to forward-price this work with accuracy or to find agreement between the parties. Contractual methods for pricing the work are sometimes used, but they are by no means a complete solution.

Energy Conversion Devices To Deliver 2.4-Megawatt Rooftop Solar Project in Portland

Energy Conversion Devices Inc. (ECD), which manufactures thin-film flexible solar laminate products for the building-integrated and commercial rooftop markets, earlier this month announced that it will deliver 2.4 megawatts (peak) of Uni-Solar laminates for installation on seven ProLogis distribution warehouses in the Oregon cities of Portland, Gresham, and Clackamas. Once completed, the 906,000-square-foot project is expected to become the largest rooftop solar system in the Pacific Northwest.

Groups Want Standards Bodies to Help Minimize Market Confusion Over the Term 'BIM'

Allied national and international standards bodies need to do more to help minimize market confusion regarding the term "BIM" (building information modeling), BuildingSmart Alliance (BSA) and the Open Geospatial Consortium Inc. (OGC) recommended in a new report, entitled "Summary of the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Owner Operator Phase 1 (AECOO-1) Joint Testbed."  The report summarizes the results of a nine-month effort to increase interoperability among software used by architects, construction companies, cost estimators, and building energy analysts.

Should Final Payment Requirements Be Strictly Enforced?

When a contractor completes a project and is ready to receive final payment, there is more involved than an inspection and approval of the work itself. Construction contracts typically require submission of extensive documentation: affidavits, proof of payment, lien waivers, warranty information, record drawings, consent of surety, etc.

NREL Hopes New Facility with Daylighting Features Will Spur More Energy-Efficient Construction

Steve Rizer
Green Building Insider

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) soon will open a facility that is intended to serve as a model for daylighting and energy-efficient construction. Upon completion, it is expected to be the largest net-zero building in the United States, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) spokesperson George Douglas told GBI.

Experts Offer Advice for Improving Productivity in Construction

Steve Rizer
Construction Project Controls and BIM Report

The construction industry cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to productivity and needs to be proactive in dealing with this issue, Michael Casten, founder of the consulting firm Construction Concepts, said during a webinar sponsored by CPC/BIM earlier this month, telling attendees, "I would suggest to you that if you haven't recently solved your productivity problems, you have one."

When is Owner Interference Intentional?

The no-damage-for-delay disclaimer is not as enforceable as it used to be. Perceived as a one-sided term of adhesion, imposed by project owners from a position of superior bargaining power, these clauses have been assailed in the legislatures and the courts. There are now a number of limitations and exceptions when it comes to enforcing delay damage disclaimers.

Bentley Launches Integrated Structural Modeling Methodology for Creators and Consumers of Structural Project Information

Bentley Systems Inc. has launched its integrated structural modeling (ISM) methodology for creators and consumers of structural project information. With ISM -- and new software apps available for download from Bentley -- structural engineers can fully participate in multidisciplinary, integrated project workflows, the company stated.

Darden Among Several Businesses Announcing LEED Plans, Various Green Designations

Steve Rizer, Editor
Green Building Insider

Darden Restaurants has begun a system-wide sustainable restaurant design initiative that will consider application of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards in its new restaurants and, where feasible, restaurant remodels. The initiative is part of Darden's broader sustainability efforts aimed at limiting business impact on the environment while enhancing the operational efficiency of its restaurants.

Comment Period Closes Next Month for Another 23 Addenda to Standard 189.1

The comment period for 13 proposed addenda to Standard 189.1, Standard for the Design of High-Performance Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, will end April 4. Comments for another 10 proposed addenda will be accepted through April 19.  The comment period for the following proposed addenda is scheduled to close April 4:

Addendum b -- This addendum would change the height of illuminance calculations required for the performance option of daylighting simulations from three feet to 2.5 feet to coincide with standard industry practice.