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 SPECTRUM
Newsletter of the Puget Sound Chapter CSI
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December Meeting: Dinner, Auction and Building Tunnels 101
Dick Owen, CSI
Welcome to our fun-filled December meeting! Once again this year we will conduct an exciting holiday silent auction to raise funds for Northwest Harvest. Typical items submitted include tickets, artwork, collectables, homemade items, holiday baskets, tools and services. Remember to bring cash or check to the auction to pay for your purchases. Please contact me for more information or to make your auction item donation(s).
In addition to the auction, we are honored to have Brian Nielsen, SR 99 Tunnel Design-Build Contract Administrator, WSDOT for the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program, for a talk on tunneling activities and construction near the tunnel's north and south portals.
Please join us for our last chapter meeting of 2013 and celebrate the holidays with friends and colleagues. Make your reservations now and feel free to bring a guest so they can also experience what CSI is all about.
Dinner, Auction, and Building Tunnels 101
$35 members, $40 non-members, $25 students
Social Hour 5:05-6pm, Dinner 6-7pm, Program 7-8pm
After Midnight Monday, December 9, tickets will cost an additional $10
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President's Message
 Vicki Long, CSI
Greetings! What? December already! I hope all of you have had a year full of positive news both in your professional and personal lives. I'm still trying to figure out just how we got to December so quickly. I trust you have all received the most recent issue of Construction Specifier and have read the cover story on the Bullitt Center. We're fortunate to have that building right here and even more fortunate that we were able to kick off our year with a personal tour! With the construction boom that is quite evident in our area I'm going to predict that Melissa Balestri may well pull together another great facility tour next year. (I hear enthusiastic applause already). Of course, we want to encourage all of our members to get involved and bring your suggestions to our attention. If you've got ideas of tours, programs, or speakers - bring 'em on. We appreciate your input.That's why we send the surveys after our meetings; your feedback is anonymous and helpful. Talk to any board member on suggestions of how we can better serve, involve, and engage our members. Please. The December meeting is one of my personal favorites because it involves shopping! For the December Silent Auction, Dick Owen has always done such a great job of not only gathering donations, but making some amazing wood bowls and canned goodies. You can always put together a theme gift basket, donate that crystal vase from Aunt Marge you never used, or part with those Seahawks tickets because you're going to be out of town - it's all to support Northwest Harvest. Don't forget to bring your checkbooks because, once again, it's to benefit Northwest Harvest. Can you say 'tax deduction'? Bring something to the Auction, and then take something home. Bring something, take something. Easy, right? We'll also get updates on the tunnel project, and as an added bonus for the December meeting, the adult beverages will be courtesy of the Masonry Institute of Washington. Thank you, Tonia Neal! Finally, in this season of gratitude, I want to send out a sincere 'THANK YOU' to the Puget Sound Chapter members, board members and committee chairs. Your time, effort, and behind the scene contributions not only make this organization better, you've made my job as President very easy! My wish for you all is Peace, Love and Prosperity in 2014. |
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December Seminars
$10 member/seminar, $20 non-member/seminar
1 AIA CEU /seminar
Concrete Durability; 3-4pm
Speaker: Bill Allen, Principal and Managing Member of Sub-Floor Science LLC.
Description: Specifying a minimum compressive strength, maximum water-cement ratio, minimum cementitious content and air entrainment does not always guarantee durability. Building in durability mechanisms that resist cracking require higher strength concrete with a lower w/cm, but exposure conditions are also relevant to the composition of the mixture that impact concrete's durability. This seminar will help architects improve their concrete specifications with practical knowledge on testing and criteria for better concrete quality and durability. Bill Allen has over 30 years of construction experience and is currently the Principal and Managing Member of Sub-Floor Science LLC, Seattle, WA. He is an ACI Concrete Field Testing  Technician, ACI Aggregate Testing Technician, and ICRI Certified Concrete Slab Moisture Testing Technician, and also sits on ASTM Committees C09 & F06, and ACI Committees 302 & 506.
Why Aren't My Floors Flat? Specified FF and FL Versus Reality; 4:05-5:05pm
Speaker: David Landrey, President of RAECO Specialty Cements.
Description:Achieving a flat and level elevated slab is a challenge that can be met with clear finish tolerances, measurement methods and pre-qualifying what constitutes an acceptable standard derivation. The presentation will focus on the relationship between concrete industry standards (the "Face System") versus commonly cited finished flooring standards, as well as other performance standards that relate to functional usage of the floor areas. David will discuss how to set realistic floor tolerances based on the known building structure and expected finished flooring, with the benefit of preventing unforeseen floor leveling and preparation costs. Attendees should be familiar with the ACI 117R-90 standard and the ASTM E1155 test method. Feel free to contact David Landrey for a summary of each standard.
Click on the graphic to register for the seminars
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Working Effectively as a Construction Team: November Meeting Recap
Julie Taylor, CSI
At the November meeting, Perry White, Ed Storer and Bill Jaillet discussed a variety of paint related topics.
Questions asked included:
- Why should we read the specs?
- Why are some project specs enforced and some are not?
- How do we keep quality at a certain level?
- Are environmental standards too strict or not enough?
Lively discussion followed the answers to these questions. Agreement was found around the issue of quality. High quality paint is worth the expense. A list of pre-approved painters is helpful. MPI should be replaced with a different system.
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November Seminar Recap
Julie Taylor, CSI
Substrate Preparation for Paint and Coatings: The Required Means, Methods and Related Costs to Doing it Right
Substrate preparation is difficult to cover in one hour. Topics covered included a description of standards, Surface Preparation Guide levels from the Society for Protective Coatings, chromate wet storage stain inhibitors and documentation requirements. Proper substrate preparati on can increase the life expectancy of paint.
Master Class on Paintings and Coatings
The first panel discussion of the evening included; Brian Keil with Sherwin Williams, Mike Murphy with Miller Paint, Brandon Haywood with Tnemec and Kevin Sullivan with Sullivan Painting Service. Participants discussed paint chemistry, standards/quality control and paint failure.
Questions included:
- Explain the difference between painting and coating products. Why the distinction?
- What is actually in a bucket?
- What are some of today's issues that make everyone's job tougher?
- What happens when there is a painting failure?
The PDCA Standards can help answer these questions and help avoid misunderstandings.
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Puget Sound CSI Memorial Foundation Announces CDT Scholarship
The Puget Sound CSI Memorial Foundation Scholarship(s) are offered this year to a Puget Sound Chapter Emerging Professional or Student member(s) who have taken and passed the CDT exam between January 1,2013 and November 30,2013 and must have not received reimbursement from employer or school.
To be considered for the scholarship, send the following information either to the PSC CSI Chapter Office or mail no later than December 31, 2013 to Puget Sound Chapter CSI, 603 Stewart Street, Suite 610, Seattle, WA 98101-1229.
To enter, please submit the following:
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Name: Email:
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Cell or Home Phone:
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Address:
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School:
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Program currently enrolled in:
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Firm: Job Title:
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Overall GPA: Expected graduation date:
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Instructor/Supervisor Name: Phone:
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CSI Membership classification: Member number:
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Expenditures for CDT Prep Class: Books: Exam Cost:
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Lastly, please include a 150 - 300 word essay, explaining: 'Why I took the CDT exam and how it changed my perception of project documentation.'
The Foundation reserves the right to award or not to award any number of scholarships and is solely responsible for determining recipients, if any.
Each scholarship will be up to $460. Scholarship winners will be announced at the February 2014 Puget Sound Chapter CSI monthly meeting.
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It Worked Last Time...  Sheldon Wolfe, RA, FCSI, CCS, CCCA, CSC
For many years, I was one of the instructors for my CSI chapter's certification classes.
In addition to explaining what CSI's practice manuals say, I liked to include horror stories - real-world examples of the ways people found to really mess up a project.
One of my favorite stories came from a public sector waste treatment agency. The project was a relatively simple addition to an existing building at one of the waste treatment facilities, to provide shower and locker rooms for the employees.
The agency had hired an architecture/engineering firm to design the addition, and to prepare bidding documents. As the bid opening date approached, the owner began getting calls from mechanical subcontractors, who asked, "Did you want to use fresh water or effluent to serve the baptismal font?"
Apparently, the mechanical engineer had reused specifications from another project, which happened to be a church. Obviously, assuming the specifications had been submitted for review, there should have been opportunities to discover and correct the error, but had the engineer started with master specifications, the baptismal font almost certainly would not have appeared in the specifications for this project.
This is an amusing result of the time-honored way of writing specifications: take the specs from the last project, change the client's name, and - voila! - they're done. While this may be a quick way to produce specifications, it also is a way to virtually guarantee those specifications will be incorrect...
read more
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Anna Anderson, CSI
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There are several reasons for joining a professional organization such as CSI. For example, CSI, unlike other professions, does not require licensing to join.
Most importantly, joining CSI instantly exposes you to the most serious people in the industry which adds to your credibility as a professional. Membership in a professional organization isn't a luxury, it's respected professional growth and important enough to be deemed as a legitimate tax write-off.
One of the biggest advantages of association membership is the networking and camaraderie that our members experience. However, to benefit from this, you must participate and be an active member within your association. Paying your annual dues isn't enough to reap the benefits of association membership. Simply put, what you get out of association membership is directly relative to what you put in.
Did You Know...
- There are more than 7,800 associations, professional societies and labor unions.
- Most associations are national, but some also have local and state chapters.
- Approximately 85 percent of all business failures occur in firms that are not members of their trade association.
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 Why I Got Certified
Bill Coady, CSI,CCPR
My boss made me do it! Although he is no longer my boss and we now work for different companies, I still thank him for making it a priority for his sales force to earn their CCPR certification.
Although times have changed, one constant is the boatload of benefits I received when I studied for the CCPR exams. The learning process alone was worth it. Going into the study courses, I knew I didn't "know it all" but I thought I understood commercial construction. The CCPR education really helped me grasp the bigger picture, the whole construction process.
That education and the consistent continuing education opportunities through CSI, has helped make me a better resource for the construction community. Bottom line is that I sell more products and generate more profits for my company and made my life as a rep much more enjoyable.
Earn your CCPR. You'll never regret it.
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Three Givings and a Happy New Year: Holiday Musings From Your NW Region Leadership
Brian D Keil, CSI, CCPR
Most of us identify with a guiding principal or philosophy to help us navigate our lives. We find guidance in religion, wisdom passed down from parents, and the ideas and philosophy of brilliant thinkers, poets and authors. I don't remember the source of my ideals, but my guiding principal works well for me. It provides perspective, keeps me anchored and focused, and above all; keeps me relatively happy. My holiday wish is that you too may find room in your life where it will help.
With that, I'd like to share my fundamental principles; "The Three Givings".
1) Giving:
I have found that the act of giving is essential to a full and rich life. I think Einstein once said, and I paraphrase, "true happiness comes from service to others". I've learned that when you lend a helping hand, the recipient and everyone around them is better for it. Above and beyond the physical act of giving to someone in need, it creates hope and good faith that perpetuates more good will. It's a win, win situation.
2) Giving Thanks:
Simply by taking stock of all of the good things that have come your way, or all of the good things that have happened to you, is very therapeutic. It makes you look at things in a more optimistic light. It improves your attitude, keeps you grounded, and provides perspective when things occasionally go wrong. Think hard - there is always something, or someone. to be thankful for.
3) Forgiving:
Forgiving is likely the most powerful and yet, the most misunderstood of the three. Many of us hold on tight to feelings of revenge or hurt until it eventually affects our spirit and good nature. These mental burdens can also inhibit focus, clear thinking and good judgment. By trying to find a way to forgive we can release some of that weight holding us down. You don't want to hold on to the bad feelings, just the good ones.
Giving to others, giving thanks, and forgiving, make up the guiding principles of my "Three Givings". They are virtues with real-life value. My hope is that you agree and apply those practices in your own life.
Lastly, I want to convey my best wishes for the holidays and for a happy, healthy and exciting 2014. I am looking forward to all it has in store. Happy Holidays everyone, and to your family and friends too.
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WORST CASE! Sheldon Wolfe, RA, FCSI, CCS, CCCA, CSC 
IN THE PUBLISHING INDUSTRY, IN E-MAIL, AND ON THE INTERNET, USE OF UPPERCASE IS LIMITED. STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT MOST PEOPLE FIND IT HARDER TO READ UPPERCASE, AND TODAY'S DIGITAL ETIQUETTE VIEWS USE OF ALL UPPERCASE AS SHOUTING. WHY, THEN, DO WE CONTINUE TO USE IT ON DRAWINGS?
One of the reasons architects and engineers have used only uppercase may have been the difficulty of learning to letter. I don't know what today's students think about lettering, but when I was in architecture school, developing a "hand" was seen as a critical part of the architect's identity. Shortly after graduating, I wrote a check at a department store. I still recall my swelling sense of pride when, after looking at the check, the cashier said, "Oh, you must be an architect!" ...read more
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What Happened Then
The CSI Puget Sound Chapter has been publishing amazing technical information for decades. In our fa  st moving world it is amazing how much some things change, and how much others remain the same. The following article was first published in December 1963, Vol.4, No.4 Spectrum (and reproduced here with typos and misspellings). If this sparks a memory you would like to share please email office@psccsi.org and share our rich history. Enjoy.
What's New in Masonry
Masonry was the subject for a very interesting, exciting and informative October meeting. There were over 70 people in attendance, several masonry contractor guests and several architect guests. It was a pleasure to have so many guests as the meeting proved to be one of the finest we have had. To start the program, the moderator showed colored slides. The slides of course, were of masonry buildings. All sizes, shapes and from many locations. All to show the many and versatile use of masonry. Following the slides the panel members each gave a short talk. Mr. Deboer noted that the concrete masonry unit industry is working on a new ASTM specification to supercede C90. This specification will be current with today's industry standards and provide better specification for this material. It is anticipated that the new standard will be issued in the spring of 1964. Mr. Fitzgerald discussed the difference between dry press and stiff mud bricks. He noted that the dry press is made using a male and female mold and with the clay under considerable pressure. The stiff mud brick is merely extruded and sliced into bricks as it comes out of the pug mill. Mr. Fitzgerald noted some advances in the clay masonry unit. He urged architects to contact his office when they need information. Mr. Dubsky discussed stone. He noted that the architect is always looking for something different in stone. He cautioned the architect to be certain he knew what he was getting in a certain stone. The architect should expect to get all of the variations and the color range characteristics of the stone. He should inquire of the supplier to determine what these variations will be and not expect the entire job to look like that one small sample he has in his office. Mr. Gerring gave a short talk on workmanship. He urged that the specifications be simple and fit the job. His subject workmanship, was avidly discussed by all during the question and answer period. The meeting was adjourned promptly at 9:30 p.m. |
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New, Renewing and Lapsed Members
Following are the new, renewing and lapsed members of Puget Sound Chapter CSI as of October 2013.
NEW MEMBERS Mr. Dan Barnts, CSI-S Mr. Robert W. Erdle, CSI, Zesbaugh, Inc RENEWING MEMBERS Ms. Marjorie S. Chang Fuller, CSI, Hoffman Construction, 17 years Mr. Michael Galbraith, CSI, Lance Mueller & Associates, 19 years Mr. Bob Kenworthy, FCSI, CCS, CCCA, Auburn School District #408, 28 years Ms. Jenifer L. Lewis, CSI-S, Student - Lake Washington Institute of Technology, 1 year Mr. Torin P. Mowbray, CSI, TNW, Inc./Tnemec, 30 years Mr. Ben Shields, CSI-S, 1 year Mr.Peter Wai K. Wong, CSI-S, 13 years LAPSED MEMBERS Ms. Kyle Holloway, CSI Mr. Mark R. Morden, CSI, CDT Mr. Robert D. Nevitt, CSI Mr. Jake R Rayl, CSI-EP, USGBC |
About CSI CSI is a national association of specifiers, architects, engineers, contractors, facility mangers, product representatives, manufacturers, owners and others who are experts in building construction and the materials used therein. They are dedicated to improving the communication of construction information through: - A diversified membership base of allied professionals involved in the creation and management of the built environment. Join us.
- Continuous development and transformation of standards and formats.
- Education and certification of professionals to improve project delivery processes.
- Creation of practice tools to assist users throughout the facility life-cycle. Join a CSI Practice Group.
CSI is governed by a Board of Directors, a nationally elected body that provides long-range strategic leadership. The Board is composed of nationally elected CSI officers, including the president, president-elect, two vice presidents, the secretary, and the treasurer; elected representatives (directors) from each of CSI's 10 regions; and a director at large. CSI's executive director/CEO is a corporate officer. For more information about or to join CSI, visit www.csinet.org/joincsi, or call 800-689-2900.
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December 2013
Volume 53 Issue 6
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| EVENTS CALENDAR |
Thursday, December 12
Seminar:
Concrete Durability,Waterproofing, and Crack Control
Seminar:
Why Aren't My Floors Flat?: Specified FF and FL Versus Reality
Chapter Dinner Meeting:
Silent Auction and
Tunneling 101
Thursday, January 9 Seminar:
Construction Sealants Seminar:
Contract Changes: AIA, AGC, EJCDC Chapter Dinner Meeting: Performance Standards as an Escape from Code-Minimum Mentality
Thursday, February 13 Seminar:
Changes in the Washington State Energy Code Seminar:
Net Zero Buildings Chapter Lunch Meeting:
Putting Your Best Foot Forward
Thursday, March 13 Seminar:
Bidding to the Holes and Proposing Substitutions: Contractor and Architect Round Table Chapter Dinner Meeting:
Business Case for the Evolution of the Specifier
Thursday, April 10
Seminar:
Applications and Advancement of Ultra High-Performance Concrete
Seminar:
Design Considerations for Seismic Upgrade Chapter Dinner Meeting:
What's New with Cold-Formed Steel Design
Tuesday, April 22
ProSpec
Wednesday, May 7
Seminar:
Steel Curtain Walls
Seminar:
Unitized Curtain Walls Chapter Lunch Meeting: Building Enclosure Testing
May 8-10 Northwest Region Conference
Thursday, June 12 Chapter Meeting:
Awards Banquet
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