Technical Design Services

One of DTR’s key services is contributing to the design team.

From schematic design through the construction document phase, we coordinate with the entire design team to select the appropriate products and installation techniques and verify that the substrates are appropriate for the installation.

DTR technical services include building envelope (enclosure) design recommendations, peer reviews or drawing details/sections, development of technical specifications with performance criteria for the exterior assemblies, and technical specifications for the entire building.

DTR reviews proposed material from a duration standpoint

While much attention is paid to the visible finishes of the interior and exterior of a building, DTR reviews proposed material from a duration standpoint. Furthermore, how that product is proposed to be detailed and installed is greatly influenced by our understanding of building science. If we are looking at interior flooring material, we analyze the concrete floor on which it is to be installed. From the vapor barrier below the floor slab (or metal deck), the moisture content in the concrete slab, and the proposed adhesive or mortar, to the vapor permanence of the flooring material itself, DTR is involved to verify the proper (unseen materials or elements) to assure the flooring will not fail.

technical designs must change with material changes

Much of the newest green building codes which target the improved efficiency of our buildings also have a dark side. This is not to say these energy and building code changes are not good. It simply means that when we physically change the elements of our roof and wall systems, our technical designs must change with them. Many buildings today are failing even though they met the building code. DTR has done many professional presentations both locally and nationally on why new buildings are failing at an alarming rate.