Capitol Improvements

One of Re-View’s strengths is its ability to work on historic windows for very large and complex National Register landmarks. Currently, we are working on four State Capitols at the same time. Each one has a unique set of challenges that makes our business fascinating. We are doing the following scope of work on these projects:

• Minnesota State Capitol: Re-View is finishing up its work on this project. We restored the historic exterior doors applying faux finishes on the interior. We removed existing aluminum replacement windows, restored the original wood window frames and fabricated and installed replica wood window sash into each opening. This brought the Capitol back to its original look.

• Colorado State Capitol: Re-View is performing wood window restoration on the existing window openings. We are removing the sash and bringing them back for a complete overhaul and restoring the frames in the field. When we are done with this work, the windows will be ready to perform for another 100+ years.

• Wyoming State Capitol: Re-View is removing existing aluminum replacement windows and restoring the original wood frames. We are then going to fabricate historically accurate wood window sash to match the originals. To top it off, we are applying custom extruded aluminum on the exterior to match the profiles of the frames, brickmould, and sash.

• Oklahoma State Capitol: Re-View is restoring the 472 original steel windows and installing  aluminum storm windows on the interior to upgrade the efficiency of the window system. 

Just The Fax

I spent this week looking at a new phone system for the business and given the rapid changes in the telecommunications industry, there is a lot to consider. One development that has taken ten years to become a reliable option is Voice Over Internet Protocol or VoIP. Under this technology, phone calls are made using an Internet or private network connection. As I was considering changing my well-seasoned, hardwired system to this more flexible and less expensive alternative, I was confronted with what I should do with the fax line. I felt very uncomfortable in pulling the plug on this old-school warrior. It wasn’t long ago that the fax line was the lifeline for many construction-related businesses. Although today it is used primarily as a clearing house for discounted vacations, everyone still prints their fax number on their business cards. This made me wonder why we have become so attached to old technologies and habits when they no longer serve us and ponder other opportunities for change in the construction industry.

It wasn’t long ago that the fax machine was the best thing since sliced bread for business. Instead of using the US mail system, we could now receive bid invites, send out bids and communications, and even sign contracts via this wonderful machine. Written communication with the fax machine was virtually instantaneous, or at least much faster than the US mail or FedEx options. With the universal usage of e-mail, however, the trusty fax machine has been retired to the same pasture as the buggy whip and video rental stores. Why would you mess with a fax when you can command the transfer of information, documents, and pictures right from your desktop? What are some of the other technologies that are rendering our current practices obsolete?

It is amazing how bogged down our industry was in managing the masses of paperwork in the past. Now, cloud-based applications and online use of construction data has revolutionized how we communicate in the industry. The growth of online plan rooms to publicize projects that are bidding and to relay the construction documents and addenda has cut costs, increased exposure, and reduced the time it takes to bid a job. Programs like Textura that provide an array of programs that facilitate project communication, subcontractor qualification process, and invoice payment do a great deal to streamline what was once a cumbersome process of communication. And online banking has contributed immensely to the faster flow of funds to all parties. For those of us who have embraced these technological tools, life is so much more productive and easier to manage.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has been a major breakthrough for how projects are designed and constructed. In the past, architects, contractors, and subcontractors worked as separate entities, only coming together when the building was being constructed. With BIM as the platform, now the design and construction team can work together more effectively to design, estimate, construct, and problem solve. This technology is creating an entirely new way of looking at the construction process. The benefits are lower costs, faster delivery, and fewer errors.

Advances in technological hardware have changed the way we work in construction. Jobsite computer systems and tablet computers enable the team to be equipped with the latest information on the project. New developments in Google Glass and Oculus virtual reality technology will most likely offer benefits to our current work processes. Another technology that is quickly gaining acceptance is 3D laser scanning. Architectural and engineering firms are using this developing technology to map out existing facilities with incredible precision or to serve as quality control of installed elements. Re-View has used laser mapping equipment to determine existing window sizes and shapes in historic structures. This has enabled us to manufacture historic window replicas with incredible precision.

What we are talking about here is changing the tools of the trade. Just as carpenters have put down hand saws and screw drivers for power tools, the entire industry needs to change to more powerful technological tools. I may love my old framing hammer, but it doesn’t hold up to modern nailers. So in that spirit, I think I’ll finally remove my fax number from my business card. 

Historic Train Stations

Back in the day when the railroad industry dominated travel in the United States, every town of size had a railroad station. These structures were often architecturally significant and ornate. In fact, some of the finest architecture in our country can be found in historic train stations.

Over the past 20 years, there has been a movement to invest in the restoration of these valuable artistic facilities. Many still function as rail hubs while others have been repurposed as museums, event space, offices, and unique retail centers.

Re-View has worked on the historic windows of some very distinctive train stations. We have restored historic wood and steel windows, preserving every element to its original state. We have also manufactured historically accurate wood window replicas to match the original windows. The following pictures capture some of our work over the years. 

Building on Leadership

I was recently asked what I thought were the best books on the topic of leadership, which is a difficult question to answer. It is almost as difficult to answer as what is my favorite album of all time. There are so many good ones; how does one pick a favorite? To assist me in my answer, I thought I would search the Internet for other lists of top works on leadership and compare the search results to books I’ve put in that category. What I discovered was very surprising. There were several classics on the list that one would expect, like Man’s Search for Meaning and How to Win Friends and Influence People. However one book kept coming up on people’s lists that I wouldn’t have classified as a source for the fine art of leadership. Alfred Lansing’s book, Endurance, was on most of the lists as a top ten consideration. How does a book about a failed Antarctic expedition capture the essence of leadership? And how could people in the construction industry benefit from this story?

I read Endurance many years ago because I appreciate works that document the human struggle through adversity. Books like Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl, Into Thin Air, and Unbroken provide me with solace that things could always be worse and that putting up a good fight can often be worth it. The book Endurance is about a 1914 expedition lead by Sir Ernest Shackleton where 27 men under his command attempted to become the first to cross the Antarctic continent. The expedition failed miserably, with the ship getting engulfed in massive ice floes early in the trip, changing the mission to one of survival. The book elegantly documents a 20-month struggle to find food, shelter, safety, and eventual rescue. So what are the leadership lessons to be gleaned from this work? There are many, and I think that architects, contractors, developers, and owners in the construction industry should practice the main principles in this book as basic business practices.

Choose Your People Wisely

Earnest Shackleton took a great deal of time in selecting his crew to join him on the expedition. Although he placed a great deal of emphasis on technical qualifications, he was more interested in the quality of the character than the skill set. Shackleton knew that a grueling expedition would require a group that could function as a team, had high integrity, and could be trusted. These same principles determine success in business today. Hiring managers are learning that work ethic and integrity will get you much farther than expertise. It’s more common these days to see sports teams base their recruiting on quality of character rather than the pursuit of the superstar. The best companies in the construction industry are those that are capable of attracting talent that can work together effectively, eliminate drama, embrace a challenge, and have fun while doing it.

Your People Come First

Throughout the story of Endurance, Shackleton is focused on making decisions that will save his crew from their devastating circumstances. Every decision he makes is in the best interests of the group. He had to make many personal sacrifices and risk his life throughout the mission to accomplish this feat. Shackleton knew that his motivation and influence on the group’s welfare was not just necessary for survival, but more importantly, it served as a good example for everyone involved. The only way to gain commitment from the team is to show commitment yourself. If your people feel that you care for their well being and success, they are much more likely to display the same care for their work associates. The essence of “we are all in this together” is a powerful force for any business.

Flexibility is Essential for Success

From the very start of the expedition, Shackleton had to change his goals depending upon changes in circumstances. He had to adapt to losing the ship, finding secure refuge, securing food and water, and searching for rescue. He also had to communicate the constantly changing plans to the team so they would cooperate on working toward the tasks at hand. The construction industry is ripe with change. During the latest recession many companies were thrown into survival mode similar to the Endurance team. Changes in the economy, design tastes, market movements, availability of financing, etc., require the construction industry to keep on its toes and adapt to the new challenges. Your ability to change gears in the construction industry can make all the difference in the world.

Maintain Optimism in the Face of Adversity

I am sure that Shackleton questioned many times during the group’s travails whether the crew would make it home safely, but he never let anyone know that he doubted their success. He knew that if he displayed any indication of hopelessness, the team would quit the fight, disband, or even mutiny. A realistic optimism is essential to survive in business or to grow into new arenas. The construction industry is littered with challenges; legal issues, safety concerns, and labor matters to name a few. Maintaining optimism from the top is essential if it is going to permeate throughout the ranks. Everyone needs to believe that no matter how daunting the challenge, the team is capable of achieving the progress needed to meet their goals.

I still find it amazing that an expedition that occurred over 100 years ago would serve as a guideline for effective business leadership today. Although I certainly don’t practice all of these principles as effectively as I would like in my daily activities, the voyage of a small crew of adventurers gives me hope to continue the struggle for success. I think that all of us in the construction industry would benefit from reading this book and adopting some of the principles in our day-to-day practices.

FDR Presidential Library & Museum

The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum is the first presidential library in the United States. Built under the personal direction of FDR in 1940, he thought that the vast quantities of documents during his four terms should be accessible to US citizens. Prior to the construction of the museum, presidential documents remained in the families of the past presidents and hopefully made it to the national archives. Roosevelt was the first to make his documents available to the public and even donated the 16 acres where the museum sits.

Re-View manufactured historically accurate wood window replicas to match the design of the originals. Every detail was meticulously matched to maintain the accuracy of the original architecture. All joinery was mortise and tenon and we used mahogany wood to make sure the windows will last another 75+ years. In addition to manufacturing precise wood window replicas for treasured landmarks, Re-View also restores historic wood and steel windows.

FDR Library & Museum

Before Pictures

After Pictures

The Price is Right

Last month we were bidding a large, multi-year project in Washington DC when our proposals started to come in for our subcontractor bids. It isn’t uncommon to have a wide variance in bid price for various bid packages, but this project had incredibly large swings in prices. This made me think about why this phenomenon occurs during the bidding process, what it means, and how to make the best sense of it. It is our goal in the construction industry to select the lowest possible price for qualified bids that best meet the scope of work, encompass the desired level of quality, and meet the schedule. Unfortunately, wide variances during bid date can be a red flag that one or more of these goals will not be met. How does one determine whether an abnormally low price is real?

It isn’t uncommon to have price variations in the American economy. Just run a simple Google search on a basic retail commodity you are interested in purchasing and you will find prices that fluctuate by as much as 20%. In the city limits of Kansas City alone you will find gasoline prices varying from $1.74 to $1.99. Purchasing the construction of an office building or the restoration of a historic landmark, however, is slightly more complicated than filling a tank of gas. When we get a low bid for a project, we call on our internal Spanish Inquisition to determine the proposal’s validity.

A loose specification will open the door for lowball pricing. If the construction documents fail to define materials, means, and methods with precision, the opportunity for interpretation can create unhealthy deviations. Failing to specify explicit materials by listed manufacturers, including performance criteria, is critical. It is also important to have a substitution process to be approved by the architect rather than allowing unapproved equals. If we get a low bid on a scope of work, we will drill the bidder on all of the details to be certain he has included all the important components. It is often discovered during this interrogation that non-complying materials have been submitted, or that the bidder missed quantities. We often uncover bidders who disregard serious elements of a proposal because they didn’t spend the time to review the specifications and assemble a meaningful bid. In some cases we have found unscrupulous bidders attempting to manipulate the specification in their quest for a low price.

Low prices are often a result of misinterpretation of the desired level of quality for a project. Although the owner, design team, and contractor have a clear understanding of the quality intent, subcontractors might not invest in understanding the critical factors of their bid. After they are awarded a contract, they might deviate in ways that can go unnoticed by the construction team. For example, using different primers might result in paint failure, changing sources for aggregate can alter masonry performance, and abbreviating labor processes can adversely affect installations. There are numerous examples of construction travesties out there that were a result of a subcontractor substituting an inferior material such as an altered installation clip. A thorough post-bid interrogation as well as ongoing quality control checks and balances throughout the construction of the building can prevent this from happening.

Finally, a low bid can be an indicator that the schedule will be at risk. Low bidders often arrive at their price because they have missed something. That something is often the project schedule. We include scheduling as part of the post-bid interview. We ask in detail, how the subcontractor intends to meet the schedule. We want to know the total labor hours, broken down by month, and broken down further by individual dedicated to the project. If it is a complicated discipline, we might ask for backgrounds of the people dedicated to the job. We also want to know about other projects the subcontractor will be working on at the same time to identify capacity conflicts. If the subcontractor has weak answers to any of these questions, the schedule will be in jeopardy.

The bidding process doesn’t need to be a game of Russian roulette. I am amused by the cartoon of the astronauts on the space shuttle talking prior to takeoff saying, “Do you realize we are about to take off in a rocket that was built by the low bidder?” If you want your project to take off and land smoothly, you might want to invest the time upfront asking the tough questions before you get into bed with an unqualified subcontractor. 

Re-View is Known for Courting Business

Re-View has an impressive portfolio of work on courthouses in the United States, working on projects from Arizona to Washington DC. The traditional county courthouse is often the most impressive architectural structure in its region. We are always amazed at the distinct architectural styles and how these iconic buildings define a community.

One aspect of the architecture of the typical county courthouse that always stands out is the windows. Architects used the fenestration to make these buildings truly magnificent. We have worked on massive monumental windows, triple-hung units, frames and sash that are bent on a radius, and artistic stained and leaded glass. The associated woodwork and trim on a typical courthouse window is often incredibly detailed and integrates with interior woodworking. Window hardware on these courthouses is frequently a highly custom design with unique finishes. We have seen locks and lifts that look like jewelry for the window.

Most of these projects are grand in scope, involving hundreds of windows. Re-View is uniquely qualified to perform custom window restoration and replication on large projects. We specialize in the restoration of both wood and steel units, and are one of the largest manufacturers of totally custom wood window replicas. We also have a great deal of experience in improving the energy performance of historic windows by using weather stripping, changes in glazing technology, or implementing secondary glazing.

One of the reasons Re-View enjoys working on county courthouses is that every project is unique. No two projects have been alike. Whether we are working on wood or steel windows, every courthouse has a distinct set of challenges that makes our business exciting.