New Hampshire Subsurface Conditions
Shallow bedrock frequently occurs in New Hampshire. Building on bedrock has its own challenges. This photo is of an excavation for residential garage structure and breezeway. The ground surface slopes… Read More »
Articles by Nancy Nichols, P.E.
Basement Water
A basement is really a depression in the earth. Basements usually have damp proofing on the outside, but that does not stop the three main sources of basement water: runoff,… Read More »
Antique Post & Beam Attic
A client wanted to reinforce the roof framing so that it could support snow loads after the attic is well insulated. The roof framing is comprised of 4×6 rafters typically… Read More »
Improving Indoor Air Quality in the Era of COVID-19
Is your HVAC system optimized to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other biological contaminants? SARS infected people over long distances suggests the possibility of aerosol transmission. COVID-19 may also… Read More »
2015 IPC on Attic Vent Termination
There has been confusion in the construction industry since adoption of 2015 IPC Section 903.2 about attic vent terminations. The NH Mechanical Safety & Licensing Board, NH Fire Marshal’s Office,… Read More »
Settlement of Shallow Footings
A shallow foundation on soil can be made for an individual load (i.e., isolated), or to support multiple loads (e.g., strip, raft or mat). The soil needs to be able… Read More »
Corridor Pressurization for Healthy Living
If you live or work in a medical facility, a nursing home, a stacked multi-family, a high rise or a garden-style condominium/apartment building with public/common hallways, lobbies and/or stairwells, you… Read More »
Foundation Types and Their Uses
Foundations can be described by their geometry (e.g., depth, dimensions and relationship to other footings). A shallow foundation, as opposed to a deep foundation can be made for an individual… Read More »
Structural Retaining Walls
A basement wall holds back soil, which pushes inward towards the basement. A basement wall also typically has a floor at its top, which services to push back in the… Read More »
Out-of Level Floors & Deflection Standards
How can you tell if your floor is out-of-level? In most cases it’s generally obvious. The good ole “place a ball on the floor and see if it rolls” is… Read More »