Lean Design Blog: Feeling a bit schizo on Fat Tuesday

I am of two minds today. I have two entirely unrelated topics to discuss:

A. Show Village at IBS
B. Windows

Show Village at IBS was great. Professional Builder did a phenomenal job of showing homes and product that directly relate to their readers needs. They also had six architects and designers meeting with builders, architects and designers in different plan review sessions. I personally had a lot of fun doing this and met bunches of great people, most of whom read the Lean Tuesday blogs, nearly all expressed their appreciation for this service and the Village homes - kudos PB!

Windows. Window designations are often one of the most error-prone elements in a set of construction drawings. Windows that are not labeled or labeled incorrectly can cost builders hundreds of dollars per home. Here is what I recommend:

1. Label all windows on the floor plan
2. Label all windows on all four elevations
3. DO NOT USE A WINDOW SCHEDULE
4. Analyze each window on the plan
a. Does it require tempering?
b. Is it required to be egress?
5. Try to eliminate tempered glass if possible - you would be surprised at how often this means moving a window a few inches.

Wrong window designation is one of the most common mistakes I see. Typically only the window company truly knows what is going on and delivers what they think you are requiring. Do you think there may be some money there? You bet there is.