PUBLICATION NEWS:

Look forward to the first edition in August 2006—
Journal of Building Enclosure Design—a new BETEC biannual publication focused on the latest developments in building energy conservation, security, and improved building envelope design and performance. It will be distributed to all BETEC and other NIBS’ councils’ members. To subscribe at no cost, email your name and address to jbed@nibs.org.

Inspection of Older Residential Buildings, and Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials & Assemblies is the Topic of Two Newly Updated Publications

Two building industry publications, one on the inspection of older residential buildings, and the second on fire ratings of older building materials and assemblies, have been completely revised and updated by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) and are available from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The updates were prepared for HUD's Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH) program.

The first publication, "Residential Rehabilitation Inspection Guide," provides step-by-step technical information for evaluating a residential building's site, exterior, interior, and structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Originally published by HUD in 1984 as the "Guideline on Residential Building Systems Inspection," this 146-page guide has been updated and expanded to include current assessment techniques and standards, information about additional building materials, broader coverage of hazardous substances, and the effects of earthquakes, wind, and floods. The guide is of particular use to architects, engineers, builders, realtors, preservationists, and agencies that need assistance in accurately assessing the condition, safety, usefulness, and rehabilitation potential of older residential buildings.