New York’s Next Skyscraper to be the Tallest in Western Hemisphere

Shortly after the official opening of One World Trade Center, it was said that a new design will trump its towering heights, just stand at 1,776 feet. New drawings recently released a project to build the Nordstrom Tower. It will sit at 217 West 57th Street on Billionaires Row - a highly constructed area in Manhattan.

This New York City residential building might stand 1,795 feet high - approximately 19 feet taller than the new World Trade Center. The developer had original plans to keep it slightly under the 1 WTC at 1,775 feet, but that idea quickly turned around, which just might make it the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere. So when will this challenging project be completed? We’re looking to see a finished product in 2018, so keep your eyes out! 

What are your thoughts on plans to build such a tall skyscraper? Share them with us on our Facebook page.

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

Chimney Inspection FAQs

Summer is right around the corner, which means we’ll be spending more time outdoors. And with temperatures on the rise, it’s inevitable that we won’t need the help of our fireplaces to keep us warm. Because our chimneys will be used less often this season, it’s the ideal time to get your chimney inspected.

You may be wondering: what is a chimney inspection and how does it work? In an attempt to clarify, here are a few FAQ:

What is a chimney inspection?
A close examination of both the interior and exterior of a chimney. Chimney inspections involve a thorough search for any damage, deterioration, buildups, and other types of blockage. You want the passageway to be clean and clear, so you’re safe to turn on your fireplace.

How is a Chimney inspected?
The National Fire Protection Association has designated three types of inspections:

Level one - a general examination. Your inspector will look at the structure of your chimney, including the flue liner, joints, connectors, interiors walls, and so forth. It will also be checked for any obstructions that could cause a fire to spark.

Level two - required for transfer or sale of a property, or if a fire has recently damaged the chimney. During this part of the inspection, special tools will be used to access more hidden areas. They key is the look for any concealed hazards.

Level three - necessary if level two shows signs of damage. This part involves removal of structural parts for easier access to the areas of main concern.

How often do I need a chimney inspection?
Annual inspections are recommended, even if you don’t use your fireplace often. Why? Because debris can easily clog the space regardless of its use, which is a fire hazard. Chimney flutes are also a perfect spot for birds to build their nests - one other obstruction you want to avoid.

AM & Associates is your source for chimney inspection and other related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

How Tall Can Buildings Really Get?

There’s a constant race to build the tallest structure the world has yet to see. Today’s construction is highly successful and competitive, which makes us wonder: how big can buildings really get? 

The world famous Empire State Building stands 381 meters tall, but humans continue to exceed this height with more extravagant structures. Can you imagine a tower as tall as 1,000 meters high? In just four years, Saudi Arabia plans to create a building this tall, which goes beyond many others we’ve seen.

When does it stop? With such little capacity in cities like New York, it’s no wonder skyscrapers grow more and more over the years. Buildings made before the twentieth century were built on awkwardly shaped plots of land. Today, buildings are designed to be tall to prevent limited space without wasting space. Believe it or not, our limit is far beyond any current structures. A kilometer would be easy - a mile or more is also possible.

What it comes down to is whether or not we actually want a tower taller than the largest mountain in the world. Some architects worry that people will feel unsafe. What are your thoughts on the rise of New York skyscrapers? Let us know on Facebook!

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more. Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information. 

Top 10 Buildings & Skyscrapers in NYC

New York City - home to some of the most incredible buildings in the world. The city’s lit up skyline is breathtaking with all its varying shapes and sizes. Among the most popular skyscrapers is the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center. Here’s a few other highlights:

The Chrysler Building. Built in 1928, this 77-story work of art was named the world’s tallest building until the Empire State Building was created one year later. This masterpiece is so detail oriented from the outside and has an Art Deco ceiling mural. Unfortunately there’s no viewing gallery from the top, but regardless, this building located at 405 Lexington Ave is a not-to-miss!

The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Met is home to the greatest art collections worldwide, and the exterior is just as incredible. This 2 million square foot building features stone slab pyramids, arches, and columns. Not to mention the Grand Staircse, leading from the entrance up to a gallery of European paintings. The classic building still features an entrance from the 19th century, making it a unique sight to see.

Grand Central Terminal. The zodiac mural, the marble walls, and the amazing arches are what makes Grand Central so eye-catching! Check out the Guastavino tile archway and the secret train car and station under the Waldorf-Astoria hotel for historical architecture. Aside from the hustle and bustle of the terminal, it is a truly beautiful building in the heart of New York City.

The New York Public Library. Featuring classic stones, columns, and arches, this New York building an architectural masterpiece. This library is so antique and delicate that it’s been closed off the to public in recent weeks due to a chunk of plaster that cracked and fell from the ceiling in the Reading Room. But you don’t need to look at the inside to admire just how magnificent this building is.

For a full list of the best buildings and skyscrapers in NYC, click here.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more. Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

The Importance of Sprinkler System Inspection & Maintenance

A recent fire in Bowie, Maryland, highlights the danger of modifications that block fire sprinklers. Reports claim that a dropped ceiling was built below the fire sprinklers, affecting their ability to perform. This fire is just one instance that shows the importance of sprinkler system inspection, testing, and maintenance.

Human modification is found in 95% of sprinkler challenges, leading to malfunctions and injuries. An effective way to prevent these challenges is to have a qualified fire sprinkler contractor come in to a home remodel to inspect. They key is to avoid features like dropped ceilings so that fire sprinklers can work in emergency situations.

Jason Webb, Director of Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance for the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) explains that “sprinkler systems in houses are essentially maintenance free, but when you make modifications that block the fire sprinklers, you have a recipe for disaster". 

Inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems ensure proper functionality it’s needed. Alan Margolin & Associates are IAS accredited experts in NYC construction and applicable building codes. With over 30 years of experience providing engineering services to the New York area, we have focused our craft entirely on Special Inspection engineering, making ourselves a leader in our field and preventing hazardous situations. Visit our website for more information.

First Look Inside Battery Park City’s New Super-Sized Condos

The new waterfront Battery Park City building is now ready for NYC residents! Just on the corner of Warren Street stands a luxurious redesign - holding only 169 condos.

With a drastically reduced apartment count, the residences are large. The building’s smallest apartment is still over 1,000 square feet and has two bedrooms. The biggest apartment size holds five bedrooms. From the smallest apartment to the largest one, you’re looking to spend about $2 million to $10 million.

The new designs are finished with hardwood flooring, an eat-in kitchen, lots of natural sunlight, and luxury bathrooms. Add in tall windows overlooking the beautiful Battery Park and you’ve got yourself an apartment worth investing in!

The building’s penthouses have yet to come to market, which will exceed asking prices of $10 million. They will offer private rooftop space with outdoor kitchens. Look for them later this Spring!

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.
Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

What If LaGuardia Airport Expanded Into the Bronx?

Last October, Governor Cuomo announced a competition to modernize four of New York's airports. Out of that contest came a plan to extend LaGuardia Airport from East Elmhurst to the Bronx - paving over Rikers Island and a large amount of surrounding waterways.

How exactly would this plan look? We’ve laid it out for you below:

Connection between major transportation networks - Including Amtrak, MetroNorth, NJ Transit, and Long Island Rail Road. The new layout would require travelers to enter the transportation hub in the Bronx and take an underground Air Tran to the new concourses, where Rikers Island stood.

Fewer delays and increased capacity - LaGuardia would expand its gate count from 76 to 165 and add longer runways, allowing the airport to run more efficiently in hazardous weather.

Safer Transportation - Longer runways would offer safer landings and less room for error. Not to mention, planes would require less time circling the air - decreasing noise pollution for the community.

Division of prison facilities - Under the plan, Rikers Island's prison facilities would get divided throughout the boroughs - possibly the most controversial outcome of the idea to expand. Passing the plan through the public review process may be difficult.

What do you think about this plan to expand LaGuardia Airport? Share your thoughts on our Facebook or Google+ page.

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

Bronx Historic Building to be Demolished

Plans to replace the Bronx's 'Castle on the Concourse' are set in motion. After almost two decades, the historic building will be torn down in exchange for an affordable housing complex.

According to a new Crain's report the 30,000-square-foot, unkempt structure was “left to rot under the city's stewardship”. The de Blasio administration is now requesting a proposal to reconstruct what was once a unique addition to the city. The transformation is said to bring 120 apartments, improving overall public health for the Bronx.

What are your thoughts about this recent city project? Let us know on our Facebook or Google+ page.

The experts at Alan Margolin & Associates are here for a variety of services, including concrete inspection and structural safety. Visit our website for a complete list of services we provide.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates: Services We offer

What kind of construction plans do you have set for the spring? Big or small, safety and proper attention to detail should always be your top concerns! That's why special inspections are a vital component in the building experience.

Which services can Alan Margolin and Associates provide for you in the New York and Metropolitan area? Below is a complete list of special inspection services we offer:

Sprinkler Systems

Standpipe Systems

Energy Code Compliance

Mechanical Systems

Heating Systems

Fuel-Oil Storage and Fuel-Oil Piping Systems

Fire-Resistant Penetrations and Joints

Fire-Resistance Rated Construction

Sprayed Fire-Resistant Materials

Structural Steel

Structural Stability – Existing Buildings

Concrete

Masonry

Wood

Soils

Deep Foundation Elements

Helical Piles

Wall Panels, Curtain Walls, and Veneers

Mastic and Intumescent Fire-Resistant Coatings

Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS)

High-Pressure Fuel-Gas Piping (Welding)

Excavations - Sheeting, Shoring, and Bracing

Underpinning

Private On-Site Storm Water Drainage Disposal & Detention

Flood Zone Compliance

Luminous Egress Path Markings

Emergency and Standby Power Systems (Generators)

Post-Installed Anchors

Preliminary

Footing and Foundation

Structural Wood Frame

Public Assembly Emergency Lighting

Final Inspection

And more…

With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

Mayor Bill de Blasio's Vision Zero Campaign Promotes Pedestrian Safety

There's no question that when many think of NYC streets they think of, well, traffic. Our roads are not flooded with just cars, but also bicyclers, pedestrians and - rather often - construction.

To help keep pedestrians safe, the Vision Zero campaign recently required a reduction in the city's speed limit; from 30 mph to 25 mph. Next, some of the most dangerous streets in the five boroughs will be redesigned to promote safer traveling conditions for all.

A few other implementations you can expect to see include:

• Adding speed cameras 
• Increasing pedestrian crossing times 
• Targeting police enforcement, especially in the evening and overnight hours. 

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

Interested in learning more about the Vision Zero campaign and how it aims to decrease the number of pedestrian fatalities citywide? Click here »

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

An Evolution of Special Inspection in Masonry Construction

Today, buildings need to be built with the potential for higher magnitude forces in mind, whether it be an earthquake or some other nature force. Therefore, even though an earthquake is not necessarily more likely, masonry must be designed more "robustly."

Quality assurance programs have thus too become more important due to this increased focus on reinforced masonry. Since inspection is one of the key components of QA, special inspection in masonry construction has become a critical activity. Special inspectors are instructed to assure masonry walls are built both properly and to code. 

The primary goal of masonry construction special inspection is to catch any mistakes while they are still fairly easy to correct. Public safety is also inevitably in the hands of the various procedures these special inspectors perform. 

Want to know more? Visit www.cement.org »

AM & Associates is a team of NYC special inspectors providing masonry and various other special inspection services to the entire metropolitan area. Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information. 

Steps for Creating a Safer Construction Site

There are an endless number of considerations that go into a construction job and safety precautions are certainly one of them. While special inspections and engineering services ensure that all buildings are built properly and to code, individual workers and team members must be in on overall regulations in order to maximize safety. 

Keep your job site a safe and successful one by incorporating these few tips below:

Instill safety as a core value. From the top down, safety and it's importance should be understood by all. Executives should lead by example and provide all-level managers with the proper safety training needed. 

Hold everyone accountable. If individual employees are not held accountable for risking safety they are more likely to cut corners and cheat the system. Set safety goals early on and make sure they are addressed in routine reviews. 

Evaluate your subcontractors safety performance. What is the safety culture and safe day-to-day operations of the subcontractor you are looking to hire? It is a poor idea to hire a subcontractor that could put your current safety standards at risk. 

Develop a detailed fall management program. With falls being the number one cause of death and injury on construction sites, it is essential that an effective fall management program be developed. At just 6 feet or higher a reliable procedure should be known and put into place. 

Talk about safety regularly. Don't leave safety guidelines behind at the planning stage but always circulate safety reminders and crucial procedures regularly. Whether it be in the weekly meeting or at the start of the day, make sure the important aspects of your safety plan are remembered and respected by all. 

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

What is an IAS Accreditation?

An IAS Accreditation by the International Accreditation Services proves that a company operates at the highest level of ethical, legal and technical standards. Therefore, you as a customer can fully trust in the IAS accredited business you hire to perform work properly and to code. 

Before an IAS accreditation is given, a company must prove its ability to perform quality special inspections under the observation of IAS' technical experts. There are also stringent quality management requirements that the Special Inspection Agency must live up to. 

Interested in learning more about what it takes to be an IAS Accredited Special Inspection Firm? Check out the online Building Safety Journal »

Alan Margolin & Associates are IAS accredited experts in NYC construction and applicable building codes. With over 30 years of experience providing engineering services to the New York area, we have focused our craft entirely on Special Inspection engineering, making ourselves a leader in our field. Visit our website for more information. 

NYC DOB Special Inspections Q&A

Alan Margolin & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including architectural, mechanical, fire protection, structural, and civil inspections. Do you have questions regarding special inspections? These questions explain the basics of the NYC DOB’s Special Inspections program.

When did Special Inspections replace Controlled Inspections?

With the 2008 NYC Building Code, Special Inspections took the place of Controlled Inspections for all construction jobs whose applications were submitted on or after July 1, 2008.

Are Progress Inspections the same as Special Inspections?

Progress Inspections, while similar to Special Inspections, are different.  They are performed during the overall progress of work, while Special Inspections are more specialized and occur at specific points during construction.  Both Progress and Special Inspections confirm compliance with the NYCBC and construction documents, along with any relevant reference standards.

What is required from the Owner during the pre-design phase?

The owner is ultimately responsible for hiring the Special Inspection Agency, so the owner should be aware of the necessity to provide special inspections and reserve the funds to cover all inspection requirements.

What is required from the Design Applicant of Record (Architect or Engineer) during the pre-design phase?

The design applicant is responsible for determining the required list of inspection items that will be included on the TR1 submitted to the NYC DOB.

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

New York's Landscape is Changing! Here's How

New York is a city of rich & vibrant history and you know more stories are set to be told in the year 2015. How will our favorite skyline be altered and tweaked in the upcoming year?

See below for a few major highlights:

Famous architects are taking action - bring oddly shaped structures and a few tall pieces of work to our city. 

Price growth will continue to be paired with a boom in luxurious condo buildings. 

Cultural renovations will meet completion. The Whitney Museum along the High Line will open on May 1st and the St. Patrick's Cathedral has set a goal to wrap up its restoration in time for Christmas! 

For more details on what you can expect throughout the upcoming months, visit ny.curbed.com »

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

Questions All People Considering Renters' Insurance Should Ask

Renter's insurance can make all the difference. If you choose the right one, that is. To start - the biggest mistake you could make is not purchasing any at all. Second, these important questions will help guide you toward a good decision. 

Ask what's covered. Policies will cover a bulk of your personal property but different belongings hold a different value for everyone. For items not on the list, consider purchasing additional coverage. 

Know what "perils" are covered. Similar to the above, policies tend to cover theft, fire, water damage and similar conditions. It's important to know what's not covered so you can take proper action to avoid them. 

Talk out all the details on liability. If someone gets hurt in your apartment, who pays for the injuries? This can be slightly different depending on the reason for the person's stay. Are they visiting? Do they work there full time? Are they subletting? It's important to understand every detail. 

Inquire about the company's age. An insurance company that has been in business for quite awhile is better informed on the area and is more committed to helping you protect yourself and your home. While it is not the most important aspect of your decision, it is definitely helpful to know. 

For a complete list of important questions to ask, click here »

Don't be overwhelmed! Building regulations and city codes are meant to protect you from unsafe living conditions as both a renter and an owner. As always, report unsafe conditions by calling 311. 

AM & Associates has been providing special inspection and engineering services to NY for over 30 years. Call us today at 212.867.6720 and connect with us on social media. 

Facebook - Twitter - Google+ - YouTube 

Request to Revive Old Coney Island Boardwalk

Plans are underway to convert a portion of the iconic wooden Coney Island Boardwalk to a less-expensive, sturdier concrete path. As with many prospective NYC construction changes, there is some resistance to the plan. 

Source: Own Work by Alcmaeonid

According to ny.curbed.com, "Critics of the measure, of which there are many, argue that the wooden portions of the 2.5-mile stretch actually held up much better during Hurricane Sandy than its concrete sections." While the Landmarks Preservation Commission is reviewing the request it could take up to a year to complete. 

What are you thoughts about this preservation battle? Let us know on our Facebook or Google+ page. 

Alan Margolin & Associates is made up of engineering and special inspection experts, offering services from concrete inspection to structural safety and stability inspections. Visit our website for a complete list of services we provide. 

New Sprinkler-Notification Law

Source: Flickr: Day 25: Fire Sprinkler

Did you know that a new law that went into effect on December 3rd, 2014 now requires all residential leases to contain boldface notice as to whether or not there is a sprinkler system installed on the premises? According to habitatmag.com, the joint legislation signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo specifically mandates the following:

1. Every residential lease must specifically note whether or not the property contains an operating sprinkler system.
2. "Sprinkler system" in the instance of this legislation has the same meaning as defined in section one hundred fifty-five-a of the executive law.
3. If an operative sprinkler system does exist, the lease should then also provide exact information as to the last time the system was properly maintained and inspected. 

This is important news for landlords and tenants alike. 

Alan Margolin & Associates has been proving engineering services to the New York area for over 30 years. Focusing our craft on special inspection, we are experts in the New York City Department of Buildings' requirements and ensure all construction is built properly and to code. 

Our IAS accreditation is proof that we operate at the highest level of ethical, legal and technical standards. Visit our website for more information on our credentials and a complete list of services we provide. 

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

#TrendWatch | NYC Housing Market 2015

What's to come for Manhattan real estate in the new year? Experts have spoken! A few trends we can expect in the months to come include the following:

Price growth will slow in Manhattan and continue to accelerate in other boroughs. There's no doubt that million dollar condos have been popping up left and right. There will be, however, about a 50% decrease in the growth rate. Brooklyn and Queens, on the other hand, will continue to experience an influx in demand - pushing prices. 

Amenities are being put to work. In ground pools and fitness areas are included in rent but rarely get used. To switch things up, events and programs will be used to ensure these spaces are taken advantage of. It's a good way to keep residents for a longer period of time and support good value. 

Making room for roommates. Developers are not blind to the fact that young professionals are gravitating towards the city but without the funds to afford a one-bedroom apartment. To address this need, "micro-suite" models are being created to accommodate three tenants in smaller bedrooms. 

There's a great deal more where these trends came from. For more of what you can expect to see in 2015, visit DNAinfo »

AM & Associates has been providing special inspection engineering services to the New York area for over 30 years. For updates on construction codes and NYC happenings, connect with us on social media! 

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New Year, New Project? Choose AM & Associates

We live in a city that never sleeps and neither does its construction! For your 2015 engineering projects and special inspection needs, consider our team at Alan Margolin and Associates. 

Our proactive approach to every project we complete ensures that your work will be completed in a timely manner while safeguarding against costly defects and code violations. 

Open communication has always been key to a project's success and will continue to be so in the upcoming year. Help your project stand out by connecting with us at AM & Associates. For a few more reasons you'll be glad you worked with us, see our YouTube video below: 




For updates on construction codes and NYC happenings in the new year, connect with us on social media! 

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