# White Papers

> Construction white papers on BIM, project risk, modular building, concrete, tile and waterproofing, tendering and scheduling for contractors and designers.

- URL: https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/
- Publisher: Essential Construction (https://essential.construction/)
- Products in this category: 104

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**Construction white papers** covering the technical and commercial questions behind better projects. Read papers on BIM, project risk and insurance, modular construction, concrete and cold weather work, tile and waterproofing assemblies, tendering and scheduling, written for project managers, engineers, estimators, owners and anyone researching an industry practice.

## What's in the white papers collection

White papers explain a practice, a material or a problem in more depth than a product sheet. Use them to brief a team before a new type of project, support a recommendation to an owner, or understand the reasoning behind a specification.

## Popular construction white papers

- [Construction Project Scheduling: A Basic Guide](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/construction-project-scheduling-a-basic-guide/): scheduling fundamentals.
- [Effective Contractual Risk Transfer in Construction](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/effective-contractual-risk-transfer-in-construction/): how risk moves through contracts.
- [Modular Construction: From Projects to Products](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/modular-construction-from-projects-to-products/): the case for offsite building.
- [BIM Explained Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/bim-explained-whitepaper/): an introduction to BIM.
- [Cold Weather Concreting](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/cold-weather-concreting/): placing and protecting concrete in the cold.

## Related categories and guides

See [Guides](https://essential.construction/files/information/guides/) and [E-Books](https://essential.construction/files/information/e-books/) for longer manuals, or read [A Guide to Working With Concrete in Cold Weather](https://essential.construction/academy/tutorials/cold-weather-concrete/).

## Frequently asked questions

### What is a construction white paper?

A report that explains an industry issue, method or material in depth, often with data, examples and recommendations. Many are published by manufacturers, consultants or industry bodies, so note who wrote it when you weigh its advice.

### Can I rely on a white paper for design decisions?

Use white papers for background and research. Design and installation decisions should follow the project specifications, manufacturer instructions, applicable codes and the advice of the responsible design professional for your project.

## Templates and files in this category

- [Development Planning for Construction Projects](https://essential.construction/files/information/e-books/development-planning-for-construction-projects.md?v=1651857679): An ebook on the process and strategies for development of property.
- [Moisture Transfer in Commercial Buildings Due to Air Leakage](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/moisture-transfer-in-commercial-buildings-due-to-air-leakage.md?v=1665440434): Air leakage through the building envelopes is responsible for a large amount of energy use. The US Department of Energy Windows and Building Envelope Research and Development Roadmap for Emerging Technologies states that, in 2010,…
- [Management of Construction Projects](https://essential.construction/files/information/guides/management-of-construction-projects.md?v=1629742211): Manual to provide guidance on achieving Fund Objectives during construction.
- [Plan, Pour, Protect and Place](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/plan-pour-protect-and-place.md?v=1655155060): Concrete specifications often require the concrete contractor to submit a cold weather concreting plan.
- [Construction Risk Management Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/construction-risk-management-whitepaper.md?v=1785758385): Risk is an uncertain event or condition that, if it occurs, has either a positive or negative effect on the project objectives.3 Parties to construction agreements, for the most part, do not spend significant resources…
- [Wallboard Finished Appearance Best Practices](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/wallboard-finished-appearance-best-practices.md?v=1622614102): A current design trend for residential and commercial buildings is the use of “open” interior spaces. Glass curtain walls, large expanses of windows, skylights and high ceilings can flood interior surfaces with strong natural light.…
- [Grout Selection for Ceramic and Stone Tile](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/grout-selection-for-ceramic-and-stone-tile.md?v=1637730604): How does a tile contractor select the right type of grout for a job when over seven choices are available? Understanding the performance advantages and limitations of each type of grout is the first step.…
- [Under Slab Vapour Retarders – Optimum Performance](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/under-slab-vapour-retarders-optimum-performance.md?v=1619060552): The use of under slab vapor retarders/barriers has long been regarded as an effective, economical way to control moisture migration through concrete. The proper installation of an effective vapor retarder/barrier beneath the concrete has been…
- [Resource Management And Delays](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/5-ways-resource-management-will-eliminate-cost-escalations-and-project-delays.md?v=1665691166): 5 Ways Resource Management will Eliminate Cost Escalations and Project Delays
- [The International Comparative Legal Guide to Construction & Engineering Law 2017](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/the-international-comparative-legal-guide-to-construction-engineering-law-2017.md?v=1652720950): A practical cross-border insight into construction and engineering law
- [Project Controls In Place On The Pentagon](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/project-controls-in-place-on-the-pentagon.md?v=1663004344): A detailed analysis of project controls in place on the pentagon renovation projects.
- [Fire Behaviour Of Steel Structures](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/fire-behaviour-of-steel-structures.md?v=1619845303): The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) conducted its building and fire safety investigation of the World Trade Center (WTC) disaster of September 11, 2001, under the authority of the National Construction Safety Team…
- [Guide To Construction Estimating](https://essential.construction/files/pre-construction/estimating/guide-to-construction-estimating.md?v=1629742575): A step-by-step Guide to a Succesful Estimate
- [BIM Explained Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/bim-explained-whitepaper.md?v=1743969300): A whitepaper on BIM and how it can be implemented on a project.
- [Constructability Review Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/constructability-review-whitepaper.md?v=1630643318): Construction Managers want jobs to be successful. One strategy for a successful job is to begin with a clear and complete set of bid documents. An important step to having a complete set of bid…
- [Competition’s Effect On Construction Bid Quality](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/competitions-effect-on-construction-bid-quality.md?v=1625728329): This is a study that examines the effect of a reduction in the number of bidders had on the quality of bid results.
- [Rain water harvesting and self healing concrete](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/rain-water-harvesting-and-self-healing-concrete.md?v=1663693000): Rainwater harvesting explains how rainwater can be harvested while the self healing document explains how self-healing concrete heals itself over time
- [Concrete Slab Surface Defects – Causes, Prevention and Repair](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/concrete-slab-surface-defects-causes-prevention-and-repair.md?v=1619060678): It is to the credit of concrete that so few complaints are received on the vast amount of construction put in place. While it is easy to determine the properties of the hardened concrete that…
- [Design and Construction of Driven Pile Foundations](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/design-and-construction-of-driven-pile-foundations.md?v=1624321597): Learn the correct way to use driven piles on a construction project.
- [Properties of Concrete Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/properties-of-concrete-whitepaper.md?v=1648845327): A white paper on the properties of concrete in it's hardened state, used by designers during the design process of reinforced concrete.
- [Quality Assurance Programs](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/quality-assurance-programs.md?v=1610497828): A detailed look at various quality control programs that are recommended for implementation in the construction industry.
- [Virtual Design and Construction In Practice](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/virtual-design-and-construction-in-practice.md?v=1619937923): Leading members of the Architecture, Engineering & Construction (AEC) industry have begun championing the adoption of a Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) approach to projects—a change that is slowly but dramatically transforming the way projects…
- [Firestopping 101 – Introduction To Firestopping](https://essential.construction/files/information/guides/firestopping-101-introduction-to-firestopping.md?v=1633410684): An introduction to firestopping including what it is and how it is applied.
- [Control of Project Risk For Owners](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/control-of-project-risk-for-owners.md?v=1721458294): Whitepaper on managing risk for owners in construction.
- [Code Conforming Wood Design 2018](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/code-conforming-wood-design-2018.md?v=1615763037): Wood construction offers distinct design options typically not found in a single structural material. It is inexpensive, readily available, easy to work with, strong and adaptable. The eco-nomic, environmental and energy efficiency advantages account for…
- [Delivering Dispute Free Projects – Part 1](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/delivering-dispute-free-projects-part-1.md?v=1623030468): A summary of recommendations to prevent construction disputes in planning, design and bidding.
- [Setting Tile During Extreme Weather Conditions](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/setting-tile-during-extreme-weather-conditions.md?v=1639540029): Every tile installer will encounter situations where tile must be installed despite adverse or even severe weather conditions. The temperature may be too hot or too cold, the humidity extremely high or overly dry, or…
- [Concrete Terminology Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/concrete-terminology-whitepaper.md?v=1619060815): Definitions of various terms for concrete terminology.
- [Designing with Precast Concrete](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/designing-with-precast-concrete.md?v=1624322463): This manual provides the parameters to consider in designing precast concrete.
- [Elements of A Building Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/elements-of-a-building-whitepaper.md?v=1717005035): A whitepaper explaining the critical elements of a building that you should know and understand before getting into construction.
- [Global Construction Acceleration Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/global-construction-acceleration-whitepaper.md?v=1610503568): Documenting the claim for acceleration on a global scale.
- [End to End Collaboration Enabled By BIM](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/end-to-end-collaboration-enabled-by-bim.md?v=1687969963): Leading members of the Architecture, Engineering & Construction (AEC) industry have begun championing the adoption of a Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) approach to projects—a change that is slowly but dramatically transforming the way projects…
- [Firestopping Inspection Manual Handbook](https://essential.construction/files/information/guides/firestop-inspection-manual-handbook.md?v=1633411844): Handbook for inspection professionals checking firestopping.
- [Four Steps to Clarity in Construction Insurance](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/four-steps-to-clarity-in-construction-insurance.md?v=1748721250): Insurance exists to help protect your business and provide you with peace of mind if one or more of your risks turns into a claim.
- [Evaluating Exposure to Cost Overruns](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/evaluating-exposure-to-cost-overruns.md?v=1615859432): In this white paper, Sonny Jester, Managing Director at Cumming, discusses some of the key factors that owners should consider when their project is impacted by unforeseen events, including how to effectively mitigate disruptions and…
- [Delivering Dispute Free Projects – Part 2](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/delivering-dispute-free-projects-part-2.md?v=1623030595): This research perspective addresses the issues of claims mitigation and dispute avoidance during the construction and claim phases of a project.
- [Design and Install of Large Format Tiles](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/design-and-install-of-large-format-tiles.md?v=1639540625): Architects, designers and owners appreciate the clean, monolithic look of large format tile on their building projects. Today, their options for large tiles include extremely large tiles – panels that can measure 4' wide by…
- [Hot and Cold Weather Masonry Construction](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/hot-and-cold-weather-masonry-construction.md?v=1619415447): This Technical Note defines hot and cold weather conditions related to brick masonry construction and describes the unfavorable effects of these conditions on masonry materials and their performance. It provides information on weather prediction necessary…
- [Managing Risk in the Construction Industry](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/managing-risk-in-the-construction-industry.md?v=1624320985): This whitepaper contains a study of the effects of risk in construction projects and provide strategies to manage these risks.
- [Emerging Contech Industry](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/emerging-contech-industry.md?v=1663247088): A summary of the construction tech industry in Vancouver BC (Canada) and the impact it has had on the construction industry.
- [Making the jump to commercial construction](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/making-the-jump-to-commercial-construction.md?v=1619938450): But, that transition can be a great step in sustaining and growing your business. Understanding commercial construction – the players, process and common terms – will help make the jump less daunting. From the Ground…
- [An Overview of Firestopping In Construction](https://essential.construction/files/information/guides/an-overview-of-firestopping-in-construction.md?v=1633412540): This appendix presents background information on the fire and life safety aspects of buildings for the interested reader.
- [Formwork & scaffolding report 2022 French Market](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/formwork-scaffolding-report-2022-french-market.md?v=1675378778): Formwork & scaffolding FULL report 2022 French Market
- [Emerging Trends For Construction In The US](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/emerging-trends-for-construction-in-the-us.md?v=1616381527): This paper seeks to capture and analyze the recent growth in industrialized construction in North America from new and existing companies. The concepts and technologies of industrialized construction (IC) - such as prefabrication, preassembly, modular,…
- [Delivering Dispute Free Projects – Part 3](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/delivering-dispute-free-construction-projects.md?v=1623030495): This research perspective is a summary of a wide variety of ADR methods available to help resolve disputes without the need to go into litigation.
- [Movement Joints In Tile Assemblies](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/movement-joints-in-tile-assemblies-2.md?v=1639541101): There has been considerable discussion concerning the need for movement joints in tile assemblies. The question is not whether they are needed; that is a simple yes. The questions are “Where do they go?”, and…
- [Masonry Terms and Definitions Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/masonry-terms-and-definitions-whitepaper.md?v=1619415616): A white paper that provides reference for terms related to the masonry industry.
- [The Top Six Capital Planning Best Practice Tips](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/the-top-six-capital-planning-best-practice-tips.md?v=1624240358): The Top Six Capital Planning Best Practice Tips
- [Fall Protection VS Fall Prevention Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/fall-protection-vs-fall-prevention-whitepaper.md?v=1658104163): A detailed guide in the difference between fall protection and fall prevention.
- [Crystal Ball Of Construction Claims and Disputes](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/crystal-ball-of-construction-claims-and-disputes.md?v=1610506365): How to forecast construction claims and disputes on a construction project.
- [Modular Construction for Multifamily Affordable Housing](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/modular-construction-for-multifamily-affordable-housing.md?v=1621048270): Modular multifamily housing construction can increase the development of healthy affordable housing by saving significant cost, time, and resources. This nacent market also bears risks for developers that limit it's growth and penetration. Public and…
- [Maintaining Life Safety Effectiveness in New Building Codes](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/maintaining-life-safety-effectiveness-in-new-building-codes.md?v=1668251873): This paper reviews key issues in fire protection that pertain to new Building Codes presently under consideration, summarizes important information from primary industry sources, and suggests a smoke control rating standard that augment sprinklers and will help maintain a level of fire protection effectiveness and public safety in the future.
- [Modular Construction: From Projects to Products](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/modular-construction-from-projects-to-products.md?v=1715630471): A whitepaper on the advantages of modular construction.
- [Innovation in Construction Materials](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/innovation-in-construction-materials.md?v=1616381695): This study was carried out to review different types of available innovative construction materials. It was found that advancement in nanotechnology, use of mineral admixture, glass and plastic, biological materials, wood and other construction materials…
- [Insulated Metal Panels – The Basics](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/insulated-metal-panels-the-basics.md?v=1623338102): This White Paper discusses the design parameters and installation of Insulated Metal Panels.
- [Installing Tile in Pools and Foundations](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/installing-tile-in-pools-and-foundations.md?v=1738043096): Waterproofing, Surface Preparation and Thin-set Mortar Selection are Critical Steps in Submerged Tile Projects. Setting tile in a swimming pool or fountain is among the more challenging projects for any tile contractor. Creating a durable…
- [Reinforced Masonry Best Practices](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/reinforced-masonry-best-practices.md?v=1619415819): This Technical Notes provides a discussion of the proper methods of constructing reinforced brick masonry. Materials used in reinforced brick masonry are included Construction of brick masonry, placement of steel reinforcement and grouting are addressed.…
- [Top 5 Risks and Mitigation Strategies](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/top-5-risks-and-mitigation-strategies.md?v=1624240261): This whitepaper identifies the top 5 risks facing owners managing ongoing capital construction projects and provide a summary of the strategies that owners have undertaken to mitigate risk using actual stories.
- [Fall Protection For Beginners](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/fall-protection-for-beginners.md?v=1703547862): A whitepaper on the basics of fall protection.
- [FF And FL Measurements Explained](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/ff-and-fl-measurements-explained.md?v=1676697284): Floor flatness (FF and FL) numbers explained.
- [Saving Time With Modular Bathroom Pods](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/saving-time-with-modular-bathroom-pods.md?v=1621048592): Consider all the things surrounding you in this moment that are made in a factory setting. The computer you may be reading this on, the car you drive in everyday, the desk that you work…
- [Proper Surface Preparation and Tile Installation in Steam Rooms and Steam Showers](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/proper-surface-preparation-and-tile-installation-in-steam-rooms-and-steam-showers.md?v=1637529517): If you’re lucky, you know how relaxing it is to spend some time in a steam shower, steam room or sauna, where heat penetrates the muscles and soothes away tension. These installations are more popular than…
- [Effective Contractual Risk Transfer in Construction](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/effective-contractual-risk-transfer-in-construction.md?v=1682263032): This white paper provides a concise overview of strategies for improving the contractual risk transfer process from the point of view of both the risk transferor and the risk transferee.
- [Qualification Best Practices For Design Services Procurement](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/qualification-best-practices-for-design-services-procurement.md?v=1663770148): When contracting for architectural and engineering services, procurement professionals must understand and follow Qualifications-Based Selection (also referred to as Quality Based Selection) wherever required by law.2
- [Metal Roof Design for Cold Climates](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/metal-roof-design-for-cold-climates.md?v=1623337154): This white paper discusses the process of designing metal roof by considering the effects of cold climates.
- [Rapid Setting Tile Installation Solutions for Time Critical Projects](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/rapid-setting-tile-installation-solutions-for-time-critical-projects.md?v=1639543143): At one time or another, every tile contractor will eventually have a project that requires tile to be installed in a matter of hours – not days. A highly compressed tile installation timeline might be…
- [Elevator Pit Waterproofing with Crystalline Technology](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/elevator-pit-waterproofing-with-crystalline-technology.md?v=1619497775): Elevator pits—the concrete boxes that sit at the bottom of the shaft below the elevator cars—are a simple structural system but can be highly susceptible to water intrusion, which will directly affect the structural and…
- [Guide to Formwork](https://essential.construction/files/information/guides/guide-to-formwork.md?v=1625331761): Guide to Formworks
- [Introduction to Quantity Surveying](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/introduction-to-quantity-surveying.md?v=1705286113): An e-book introducing the role of the quantity surveyor to the construction industry.
- [Rain Screen Systems Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/rain-screen-systems-whitepaper.md?v=1611288728): Traditional building methods have evolved slowly over many centuries in response to the strengths and weaknesses of available materials. During the past hundred years, building techniques have evolved with increasing rapidity in response to the…
- [National BIM Guide For Owners](https://essential.construction/files/information/guides/national-bim-guide-for-owners.md?v=1664183590): Recent SmartMarket Reports by McGraw Hill Construction (now Dodge Data & Analytics) indicate the business value of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is increasing. The Business Value of BIM in North America: Multi‐Year Trend Analysis and…
- [Decoding Multi-purpose Waterproofing, Crack Isolation, Sound Reduction and Uncoupling Membranes](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/decoding-multi-purpose-waterproofing-crack-isolation-sound-reduction-and-uncoupling-membranes.md?v=1674392718): There are many reasons to include a membrane in a ceramic or natural stone tile installation. Membranes are used to prevent cracks in the substrate from migrating into the tile. They block water and moisture…
- [Bringing People, Process and Technology Together for Better Outcomes](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/bringing-people-process-and-technology-together-for-better-outcomes.md?v=1692002922): This WesTrac whitepaper looks at how technological innovation is helping the construction sector continuously improve safety performance.
- [Unbalanced Bids And Avoiding Disputes](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/unbalanced-bids-and-avoiding-disputes.md?v=1662679894): A white paper on unbalanced bids in the estimating phases and what you can do to avoid future disputes.
- [Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/moisture-control-guidance-for-building-design-construction-and-maintenance.md?v=1623338002): This guide can be used by anyone who designs, builds, operates or maintains buildings and heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment.
- [Cementitious Self-Leveling Underlayments](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/cementitious-self-leveling-underlayments.md?v=1639543628): Subsurface Tolerances and Floor Flatness Requirements — A Case for Cementitious Self-Leveling Underlayments It is common knowledge that putting more effort into surface preparation will yield benefits in your floor covering installation. Not only will the floor…
- [Interface Guidelines For Curtainwall](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/interface-guidelines-for-curtainwall.md?v=1619498147): Air leakage and water penetration performance has been established for most building enclosure material and assembly components that are commonly used in the building construction industry. However, air leakage and water penetration performance at the…
- [Jet Grouting Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/jet-grouting-whitepaper.md?v=1625326859): A guide for the methodology of Jet Grouting.
- [Tendering Procedure for Construction](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/tendering-procedure-for-construction.md?v=1748042043): Tendering Procedure for Construction Projects details the interface between clients and contractors in the execution of building and civil engineering works.
- [Levels of Drywall Finish Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/levels-of-drywall-finish-whitepaper.md?v=1664856289): This document provides various standards for the finishing of gypsum board wall or ceiling surfaces. It will assist in the coordination and development of projects, construction documents and the gypsum board finishing application. Incorporation of…
- [Best Practices for Preparing  Concrete Surfaces Prior to  Repairs and Overlays](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/best-practices-for-preparing-concrete-surfaces-prior-to-repairs-and-overlays.md?v=1622264440): One of the biggest problems impacting the long-term performance of concrete repairs and bonded overlays is cracking of the repair material and repair material debonding from the concrete substrate. There are many purposes for concrete…
- [Preventing Tile Assembly Failures in Commercial Kitchens](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/preventing-tile-assembly-failures-in-commercial-kitchens.md?v=1637530137): High heat. Harsh cleaners. Heavy impacts. Commercial kitchens present one of the most hostile environments for tile in any building application today. The temperatures and chemicals, along with grease exposure and the need to avoid…
- [Construction Project Scheduling: A Basic Guide](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/construction-project-scheduling-a-basic-guide.md?v=1704728833): In this basic guide to construction project scheduling, we’re going to discuss why we have schedules, why they’re important on projects, and how they should be used. In addition, I’m going to jump into and discuss essential Critical Path Method (CPM) concepts
- [Effective Use Of Schedule Control Techniques](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/effective-use-of-schedule-control-techniques.md?v=1618686829): This paper presents a case study in the use of innovative schedule control techniques on the Stage III Ammonia and Stage II Phosphorus Removal Project at the Metropolitan Syracuse Waste Water Treatment Plant (Metro). The…
- [Shaping the Future of Construction](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/shaping-the-future-of-construction.md?v=1623337390): This white paper presents insight articles proposing innovative solutions on how to address the construction sector’s key challenges in Project Delivery, Life Cycle Performance, Sustainability, Affordability, Disaster Resilience,  Flexibility, Liveability and well being.
- [Waterproofing and Vapor-proofing Tile Assemblies in Showers](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/waterproofing-and-vapor-proofing-tile-assemblies-in-showers.md?v=1663217514): The wettest place on Earth is probably the standard American shower. Typical shower heads have a flow rate of 2.5 gallons of water per minute. If the shower is used by two people each day for…
- [Design and Construction of Parking Structures](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/design-and-construction-of-parking-structures.md?v=1619795430): Parking structures have become important elements in today’s urban and suburban environments. Owners have realized that parking services represent the first and last impression a visitor receives of the facility, and that can be a…
- [BIM in design, construction and maintenance of facilities](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/bim-in-design-construction-and-maintenance-of-facilities.md?v=1628404889): Building Information Modeling, or BIM, is an evolving platform for desiging, documenting and analysing buildings. It’s core feature, a multi-dimensional, parametric model of a building project, is a quantum leap from its predecessor, Computer Aided…
- [Cold Weather Concreting](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/cold-weather-concreting.md?v=1662322754): Learn about cold weather concreting in this whitepaper.
- [Guide to Concrete Repairs](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/guide-to-concrete-repairs.md?v=1612723928): Clearly, there is a need for sound concrete repair and maintenance practices. The first edition of the Guide stated: “It has become apparent that there is need for modernization and expansion of the information on…
- [Movement Joints In Tile Assemblies](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/movement-joints-in-tile-assemblies.md?v=1622266069): There has been considerable discussion concerning the need for movement joints in tile assemblies. The question is not whether they are needed; that is a simple yes. The questions are “Where do they go?”, and…
- [Installing Exterior Tile, Natural Stone, Concrete Tile or Thin Brick](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/installing-exterior-tile-natural-stone-concrete-tile-or-thin-brick.md?v=1666526014): he proper selection of products, substrate preparation and installation methods will drive the success of an exterior tile installation that can withstand the test of time. How many other finishes can make that claim? There…
- [Improving Productivity Through Crew Balance](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/improving-productivity-through-crew-balance.md?v=1659918067): Competition is increasing in all fields of engineering and construction, and in order to remain competitive in these evolving times, project managers must emphasize efficiency in all aspects of their operations. This paper presents a…
- [Solving the Construction Estimating Puzzle](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/solving-the-construction-estimating-puzzle.md?v=1623337288): This paper provides advice to produce a thorough, accurate estimate that stays within the project's budget and timeline.
- [Uncoupling Membranes for Tile Installation](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/uncoupling-membranes-for-tile-installation.md?v=1768150526): Before installing ceramic or stone tile, most subfloors must be properly prepared with an underlayment or membrane to prevent transmission of movement that can result in cracked tiles or grout. This underlayment can be a…
- [The Cost Of LEED](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/the-cost-of-leed.md?v=1619844912): This study is an analysis of the initial building costs for two Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) banks and eight non- LEED banks with similar building types and sizes located in western Colorado.…
- [Balancing Preservation and Energy Efficiency in Building Retrofits](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/balancing-preservation-and-energy-efficiency-in-building-retrofits.md?v=1676577614): Energy conservation has become one of the primary goals of architecture and engineering design today, especially when retrofitting existing buildings. The desire to improve the energy efficiency of an existing building must be balanced with…
- [Corrosion Mitigation For Concrete Structures](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/corrosion-mitigation-for-concrete-structures.md?v=1761346183): Structures, if left exposed will corrode over time. Learn the means and methods to mitigate the corrosion.
- [Efflorescence in Concrete Whitepaper](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/efflorescence-in-concrete-whitepaper.md?v=1612837464): Research into each of the materials used in masonry walls reveals that the main source of alkalies for the salts is the Portland cements used in the mortar and grout. Using a low alkali Portland…
- [Control Joints In Stucco](https://essential.construction/files/information/white-papers/control-joints-in-stucco.md?v=1647450396): It is the position of the author that the current ASTM control joint standards (italicized, supra): 1. Were never developed from any scientific, engineering or tested standard – rather they were arbitrarily decided on a…