Hurricane Humberto Florida Disaster Services

Humberto Becomes the Atlantic's First Hurricane of 2013

Posted: update on September 11, 2013

The Atlantic's first hurricane of 2013 finally arrived this Wednesday morning, as Hurricane Humbertointensified into a minimum-strength Category 1 hurricane in the far Eastern Atlantic. Humberto is listed in NHC's preliminary Best-Track data repositoryas having achieved hurricane strength at 8 am EDT on September 11, which would tie it with Hurricane Gustav of 2002 for the latest appearance of the season's first hurricane, since 1941. Humberto is also Earth's first tropical cyclone to reach Category 1 strength in three weeks--the last was Typhoon Trami, which hit China on August 21 as a Category 1 storm with 85 mph winds. To go three weeks during late August and early September without a Category 1 or stronger tropical cyclone is a very unusual event. Satellite loopsshow that Humberto is a small but well-organized hurricane with a prominent eye, located just west of the Cape Verde Islands. Humberto has until Thursday night to continue the intensification process. 

Parsco Construction offers disaster services in Florida and the entire Gulf Coast region. Contact us at 850-696-7656 or email us at info@parscoconstruction.com. 

Did you know? ParsCo Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings Southeast

It is very likely that you go into a pre-engineered metal building more often than you know as you go about your normal shopping routine.   Multiple national retailers with  household names  use this type of building for many of their stores. Also many office buildings, retail spaces, and churches utilize this type of building system but you would never know it. 

No limit to design and use
Today's pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMB) can be churches, community centers, aircraft hangers, schools or sports arenas.  The structures can incorporate many architectural finishes—including masonry, brick, tilt-up, ornamental metal or stucco façades—while still being cost competitive. Basic elements apply to all metal buildings: primary rigid frames, secondary members (wall girts and roof purlins), cladding and bracing. All of those elements work together to create an efficient building system. Engineered systems are designed to code and withstand extreme loading from disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes. 

 What is a PEMB?
"Pre-Engineered" is no longer an accurate term.  All these buildings are "custom" engineered using automated design programs.  The building is fabricated at the manufacturer's plant and assembled at the client's site.  Metal building system manufacturers use computer tools to custom design each building system and all building components based on each customer's needs and specifications. 

 

ParsCo is the preferred Southeast Region PEMB builder and is certified by Varco Pruden to perform the erection of these buildings.  The Varco Pruden Building System is much more than just components.  It is the complete building system including design, detailing, drawings, manufacture and warranty.  

Based on local and national building codes, each metal building system is engineered to the required dimensions and designed to meet the loading conditions with the specified material. Once the building is designed and detailed, computerized instructions are sent to the fabrication plant where steel members are cut to exact standards. This precision custom manufacturing also reduces construction waste.

PEMB's are GREEN!
Made using metals,  PEMB's have always been GREEN!   Conventional buildings are constructed using bricks, sand and cement which results in environmental pollution. Steel buildings are environmentally friendly and can also help meet green initiatives.  Up to 75 percent of steel used in metal buildings comes from recycled products and steel is 100 percent recyclable. Further, there is no requirement for any kind of welding process for construction, which helps save energy. These buildings are pre-drilled, pre-cut and pre-welded. The roofing systems are designed to meet LEED requirements for solar reflectance and heat emissivity.   

 

PEMB's have longevity
Due to the permanence, durability, stability and quality of metal buildings, life cycles can reach up to 100 years. In addition, metal buildings are easy to insulate and, when paired with cool roofing, can help lower heating and cooling costs.  Steel does not rot, warp, shrink or split – and it is non-combustible.  Any PEMB that by it's appearance is obviously a metal structure (such as a storage facility or airplane hanger) will come with a long lasting finish.  For example they can be made from Galvalume or coated with Kynar which typically carries a 40 year warranty. Therefore even PEMB's with an exposed metal skin will not require maintenance such as painting. 

Installation
As the design, engineering  and fabrication of the new building is done at the manufactures facility, the pre fabricated components are shipped to the site for immediate erection.  Typically this is performed by local crews certified and trained by the manufacturer. 

Finishes
As noted earlier in this blog, these buildings are eminently suitable for any type of use and are offered with many exterior wall options, glazing and finishes including masonry, brick, ornamental metal or stucco facade. 

 

 Contact ParsCo Construction at 850-696-7656 or email us at info@pars-co.net for more information. 

ParsCo Construction Conceptual Estimates

Conceptual Estimates by ParsCo Construction - Pensacola, FL

ParsCo professionals take conceptual estimating services very serious. After all, the conceptual estimate could possibly be a deal killer when a developer is considering the hard costs on a new project. 

The description of a conceptual estimates can range from a feasibility study, which carries ±20% margin of error with regard to the actual project cost, to a complex conceptual design estimate, which only carries a ±6% margin of error. Typically, conceptual estimates happen before a specific approach is decided for the project.

Conceptual estimating is part art and part science. The estimator has to have a "big picture" view, looking for long-range solutions rather than shortsighted projections. Conceptual estimators hone their craft with practice and experience, basing their estimates on real-world examples and past projects. According to the Design-Build Institute of America, Washington, D.C., a conceptual estimate is "the skill of forecasting accurate costs without significant graphic design information about a project." However, the lack of information does not negate the importance of a conceptual estimate, because it can make an appreciable difference in the cost effectiveness, feasibility, efficiency, and outcome of a project.

In developing a conceptual estimate, working with the developer can bring about the best possible outcome. But keep in mind that this approach may not necessarily be the least expensive. An estimator must look to the lifetime cost, which may include higher up-front costs but a lower lifetime cost of the building. You must also be aware that the best interest of the building owner may be at odds with the desires of the developer, who may want to get in and out of the building quickly with the least amount of cost.

For example, let's consider "green" building techniques. The use of photovoltaic panels, green roofs, geothermal wells, and other energy-efficient building materials still cost more than a conventionally built structure. However, the payback of reduced energy costs and reduced carbon footprint over the life of the building can outweigh the initial increased costs.

Research is always part and parcel of the conceptual estimating process, as there is no "outline" for this process. Each estimator must forge his own way and stretch the imagination to put his proposal into an interesting, understandable and usable format to move the project to the next level.

If you are considering a new project or development, contact ParsCo for expert conceptual estimating services. Our staff of skilled construction professionals can help you and your team determine the forecast of costs to build, analyze the preliminary design, and help steer the project to make it a reality. In the end, ParsCo can construct the project for the price as well. 

ParsCo, LLC

850-696-7656

Info@pars-co.com

Protecting your property from water intrusion

Protecting Your Property From Water Damage

Water may be essential to life, but, as a destructive force, water can diminish the value of your home or building. Homes as well as commercial buildings can suffer water damage that results in increased maintenance costs, a decrease in the value of the property, lowered productivity, and potential liability associated with a decline in indoor air quality. The best way to protect against this potential loss is to ensure that the building components which enclose the structure, known as the building envelope, are water-resistant. Also, you will want to ensure that manufacturing processes, if present, do not allow excess water to accumulate. Finally, make sure that the plumbing and ventilation systems, which can be quite complicated in buildings, operate efficiently and are well-maintained. This article provides some basic steps for identifying and eliminating potentially damaging excess moisture.

 

Identify and Repair All Leaks and Cracks

 

The following are common building-related sources of water intrusion:

·                     windows and doors: Check for leaks around your windows, storefront systems and doors.

·                     roof: Improper drainage systems and roof sloping reduce roof life and become a primary source of moisture intrusion. Leaks are also common around vents for exhaust orplumbing, rooftop air-conditioning units, or other specialized equipment.

·                     foundation and exterior walls: Seal any cracks and holes in exterior walls, joints and foundations. These often develop as a naturally occurring byproduct of differential soil settlement.

·                     plumbing: Check for leaking plumbing fixtures, dripping pipes (including fire sprinkler systems), clogged drains (both interior and exterior), defective water drainage systems and damaged manufacturing equipment.

·                     ventilation, heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems: Numerous types, some very sophisticated, are a crucial component to maintaining a healthy, comfortable work environment. They are comprised of a number of components (including chilled water piping and condensation drains) that can directly contribute to excessive moisture in the work environment. In addition, in humid climates,one of the functions of the system is to reduce the ambient air moisture level (relative humidity) throughout the building. An improperly operating HVAC system will not perform this function.

Prevent Water Intrusion Through Good Inspection and Maintenance Programs

 

Hire a qualified inspector to perform an inspection of the following elements of your building to ensure that they remain in good condition:

·                     flashings and sealants: Flashing, which is typically a thin metal strip found around doors, windows and roofs, are designed to prevent water intrusion in spaces where two building materials come together. Sealants andcaulking are specifically applied to prevent moisture intrusion at building joints. Both must be maintained and in good condition.

·                     vents: All vents should have appropriate hoods, exhaust to the exterior, and be in good working order.

·                     Review the use of manufacturing equipment that may include water for processing or cooling. Ensure wastewater drains adequately away, with no spillage. Check for condensation around hot or cold materials or heat-transfer equipment.

·                     HVAC systems are much more complicated in commercial buildings. Check for leakage in supply and return water lines, pumps, air handlers and other components. Drain lines should be clean and clear of obstructions.Ductwork should be insulated to prevent condensation on exterior surfaces.

·                     humidity: Except in specialized facilities, the relative humidity in your building should be between 30% and 50%. Condensation on windows, wet stains on walls and ceilings, and musty smells are signs that relative humidity may be high. If you are concerned about the humidity level in your building, consult with a mechanical engineer, contractor or air-conditioning repair company to determine if your HVAC system is properly sized and in good working order. A mechanical engineer should be consulted when renovations to interior spaces take place.

·                     moist areas: Regularly clean off, then dry all surfaces where moisture frequently collects.

·                     expansion joints: Expansion joints are materials between bricks, pipes and other building materials that absorb movement. If expansion joints are not in good condition, water intrusion can occur.

Protection From Water Damage

·                     interior finish materials: Replace drywall, plaster, carpet and stained or water-damaged ceiling tiles. These are not only good evidence of a moisture intrusion problem, but can lead to deterioration of the work environment, ifthey remain over time.

·                     exterior walls: Exterior walls are generally comprised of a number of materials combined into a wall assembly. When properly designed and constructed, the assembly is the first line of defense between water and the interior of your building. It is essential that they be maintained properly (including regular refinishing and/or resealing with the correct materials).

·                     storage areas: Storage areas should be kept clean.  Allow air to circulate to prevent potential moisture accumulation.

Act Quickly if  Water Intrusion Occurs

 

Label shut-off valves so that the water supply can be easily closed in the event of a plumbing leak. If water intrusion does occur, you can minimize the damage by addressing the problem quickly and thoroughly. Immediately remove standing water and all moist materials, and consult with a building professional. Should your building become damaged by a catastrophic event, such as fire, flood or storm, take appropriate action to prevent further water damage, once it is safe to do so. This may include boarding up damaged windows, covering a damaged roof with plastic sheeting, and/or removing wet materials and supplies. Fast action on your part will help minimize the time and expense for repairs, resulting in a faster recovery.

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Tips on Change Order Management

ParsCo Construction Tips on Change Order Management

Disputes commonly arise with construction contracts, particularly with change orders. If these disputes are not addressed with appropriate management focus, the distractions and economic costs of addressing them can result in significant profit erosion. In an economic environment where profits are already under pressure, change order dispute resolution can take on an even greater importance.

 

A change to a construction contract typically requires agreement among multiple parties, often revolving around the owner, the architect, and the contractor. All parties play important roles, with potential outcomes often at odds with each party’s understanding of the project’s terms as well as the associated economic costs and benefits.

 

An effective change order management process begins with a thorough understanding of the contract’s requirements, including what constitutes a deviation giving rise to a change order and the document flow processes required to be carried out. It is important to appropriately identify the change and the particular relationships to the contract terms; e.g., additional work required, plan deficiencies, changes in specifications, delays in schedules, etc. Make sure there is clear communication among all relevant parties as well as appropriate documentation that details the nature of the change and the associated economic consequences. 

These processes and the steps required to resolve disputes along the way are generally addressed in the construction contract documents. When public projects are involved, it is also necessary to adhere to specific regulatory requirements that can vary by state, locality, and public agency.

 

Most construction projects, no matter how well-planned in advance, will involve some level of change orders. It is in the best interest of all parties involved to come to a successful resolution in an efficient and expeditious manner. Clear and timely communication, combined with management support and focus, are critical to ensuring a successful outcome.

 

COMMON CAUSES FOR CHANGE ORDERS

Causes for a change order can vary from one project to another, but still they are additions that need to be quantified in terms of time and money. Change orders, sometimes are a headache when the complexity and time frame of the requested job are tight. Change order management is another different process than regular contract documents, and most common causes for change orders can lead to legal battles, disputes and arbitration.

·        Drawings Errors and/or Omissions

The most claimed situation for allowing change orders. Inadequate details, misrepresentation o simply avoidance to prepare a complete set of detailed drawings can lead to serious change order requests. Sometimes leaving out details and misrepresenting the exact environment in which the construction will be held at, can also lead to change order claims.

·        Design Changes

Several outer factors can lead us to start a construction project without a complete scope of the project and start the construction without final drawings. This type of error is also common on design-build projects, where the on-going process of design can induce to work stoppage or produce economic impact in the project.

·        Specifications

Sometime the drawing asks for one product but the specs calls for another. This situation is very common on construction projects where the drawings are assigned to different consultants, each one of them acting on their own, without any kind of direction from a team leader. This leaves the contractor with the difficult task of assuming and quoting on one article, but when the installation is going to be made, the owner, requires another article to be installed, instead of the one that you have already quoted.

·        Unforeseen Conditions

How many times do you have to complete a soil boring? Soil problems, in particular, are the most common problems with unforeseen conditions. Soil studies can induce you to expect some condition based on specific testing. This could be wrong. Your assumptions on the soil conditions or any other issue regarding the construction of the project can be different from the actual conditions that you find on the site. Also, if the drawings specify a certain amount of work, when, in fact, the amount of materials is almost double, and then a change order must be issued.

·        Substitutions

This is normally a contractor’s idea to substitute material, when he cannot get the specified materials or there is a shortage in supplies. This is kind of different because it can lead to another issue: a credit will be asked if the material cost is less, or sometimes the contractor will have to absorb the costs’ difference between materials and/or products. Sometimes, the Owner also asks for some upgrades during the construction process, in this case you must submit a change order request claiming the economic and time costs associated with the proposed modifications.

 

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ParsCo, LLC

P.O. Box 12862

Pensacola, FL 32591

O:  850.696.7656

Visit us on the web at www.parscoconstruction.com

 

Luxury Walk-In Closets by ParsCo Construction

One of the most important features to a home that is often overlooked is the walk-in closet. ParsCo Interior Designers take extreme care in making sure every detail on a new luxury home is addressed, especially the walk-in closet.

It is where you typically start your day and this makes a fabulous design all the more important.

The use of space is critical. You want a space that functions, offers storage based on your clothing, and has flair that matches your taste.

Some people prefer a minimalistic design whereas others want a fancy decorative design. ParsCo Interior Designers take your taste and make it a reality. Regardless of what it looks like, the designs are functional and meet your needs.

Contact ParsCo at 850-696-7656 or email us at info@parscoconstruction.com for more info.

Creative home design features with ParsCo Construction

Creative designs and implementation of customer requests are some of ParsCo's favorite things about making a project a reality.

Take for instance this gorgeous master bathroom. A fireplace with a bathtub or a bathtub with a fireplace?

Contact ParsCo to make your next creative dream a reality at 850-696-7656 or email us at info@parscoconstruction.com.