Dear Dr. Parker,

I would recommend that you make sure you carefully define for the architect
the environmental and other design criteria your project should meet --
temperature and humidity conditions for collections (and people),
restrictions on "off-gassing" of harmful chemicals that are present in some
building materials, weights and sizes of objects to be housed, policies and
practices regarding access, security and fire protection, the need to seal
the structure from invasions by critters etc.  Your architect should then be
responsible for selecting the materials and systems to best achieve those
results.

Assume that you will get your 100 year rain or snow storm or hurricane in
designing the roof -- you'll be better for anticipating worst case
scenarios.  Also, consider a roofing system design that will make it easier
to pinpoint a leak should one occur.

Cheers,

Ann Trowbridge,AIA

> -----Original Message-----
> From: John Parker [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
> Sent: Monday, February 21, 2000 8:20 PM
> To:   [log in to unmask]
> Subject:      Structural considerations for collections
>
> Dear colleagues,
>
> Aside from insulation, are there any simple structural does-and-don'ts
> which would help or hinder climate within a collections room (humidity,
> temp, etc.)?  e.g. number and location of windows, attic vents, roofing
> material, etc.
>
> Our community archaeological group has obtained a small grant for facility
> upgrades (new roof, office room, siding, flooring, etc.) and we will soon
> be meeting with the architect to review the plans.   If there are any
> changes to be made now is the time and I have been elected to make the
> suggestions.
>
> I am also wondering if I should request beefed up ceiling and floor
> supports or studs in the walls for anchoring future storage shelving.
>
> Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
>
> Sincerely,
> John Parker
> ---------------------------------------------------------------
> Dr. John Parker, RPA
> [log in to unmask]
> Central Coast Archaeology Website
> <http://www.tcsn.net/sloarchaeology>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
>

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