July 2025 • Southeast Architectural Solutions

Jul282025 by ArchSolLLCNo Comments

When To Use a Hollow Metal Frame With a 4″ Head

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Hollow Metal Frame with a 4″ Head 07/12/2025|Admin|Product Highlights, Resources When to Use a 4″ Head on Your Door Frame In commercial construction, small details in frame design can make a big difference during installation. One example is knowing when to use a 4″ head on your hollow metal door frame. When installing a 7’0″ door, using a standard 2″ face head can create a gap between the top of the door frame and the next course of block. This gap happens because each block course measures 8″ in height (7 ⅝” for the block plus ⅜” for mortar). To bridge this gap, contractors often resort to a modified or “notched” lintel that can add cost and time. By choosing a 4″ head, the door frame aligns perfectly with the block courses. This allows the lint...

Jul282025 by ArchSolLLCNo Comments

A40, A60, G90 Explained!

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A40, A60, G90 Explained: Be Able To Explain It Like A Pro 07/14/2025|Admin|Resources, Uncategorized Most professionals in the built environment have a general idea what A40, A60, and G90 mean but can you confidently explain it to an architect or contractor which the better choice is for hollow metal doors and frames? Here’s your quick refresher to help you sound like the expert they need. Understanding the Numbers The numbers tell you the total zinc coating weight per square foot (both sides): A40 = 0.40 oz/ft² A60 = 0.60 oz/ft² G90 = 0.90 oz/ft² 🔑 Higher numbers mean a thicker zinc layer, providing better corrosion resistance but that’s only part of the story. There is more than just the coating weight to consider when selecting the best mate...

Jul282025 by ArchSolLLCNo Comments

Understanding Thermal Ratings in Hollow Metal Doors

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Understanding Thermal Ratings in Hollow Metal Doors: R-Value & U Value 07/15/2025|Admin|Codes, Resources When thermal performance shows up in door specifications, you’ll often see references to R-value and U-value. But what do they really mean? And how do they apply to hollow metal doors? Let’s break it down in plain language. Why Thermal Ratings Matter in Hollow Metal Doors As energy codes tighten and sustainability goals grow, architects and specifiers are paying closer attention to how door assemblies impact the building envelope. Whether it’s for exterior openings in commercial buildings, conditioned corridors in hospitals, or hotel room doors, understanding thermal performance ensures compliance and comfort. That’s where R-value and U-value ...

Jul282025 by ArchSolLLCNo Comments

The Anatomy of a Drywall Frame

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The Anatomy of a Drywall Frame Part 1: Drywall Frame Profile Here is a drawing I created showing the profile of a typical knock-down drywall frame. I will be including a graphic with a detail and explanation on compression anchors as well as installation instructions at a later date. It also shows the difference of the jamb depth vs the throat measurement. Most hollow metal manufacturers request the jamb depth when ordering but you should always check with your specific manufacturer to understand the information they need to ensure you receive the correct frame. Here are some common terms associated with a drywall frame: Compression Anchor – the typical anchor used to secure a knock down drywall frame to an existing wall. A compression anchor comes pre-installed ...

Jul272025 by ArchSolLLCNo Comments

How to Utilize DMI and ABI Reports (with a little help from ChatGPT)

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How to Utilize DMI and ABI Reports (with a Little Help from ChatGPT) As I dive deeper into creating content and building a more informed community around the commercial door and hardware industry, I’ve discovered that some of the most valuable tools for forecasting market trends are right in front of us, if you know how to read them. Two of the most underused yet powerful tools are the Dodge Momentum Index (DMI) and the AIA Architectural Billings Index (ABI). I’ve been including them in my monthly newsletter, but recently I wanted to go deeper to better understand what they measure. Here is a quick explanation: Dodge Momentum Index (DMI) The DMI tracks new non-residential building projects that are just entering the planning phase, before they’re designed, permitted, o...