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From mass masonry to veneer: The evolution of cavity wall design

Construction Specifier

The design of contemporary cavity wall assemblies is the result of a century of trial and error. During the transition from mass masonry walls to the “four barrier” (i.e. These assemblies lack many necessary components that comprise an effective building enclosure system. Cavity walls were being constructed in the U.S.

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Western Specialty Contractors Restoring Minneapolis’ Historic Wesley Church

Civil + Structural Engineer

3, 2023) Western Specialty Contractors – Minneapolis Branch is nearing completion of a project to restore a masonry wall section of the historic Wesley Church located at 101 E. Louis, MO, Aug. in downtown Minneapolis, MN. Substance Church contracted with Western in May 2023 to restore the building’s façade.

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Additional practical insights on overcladding masonry facades

Construction Specifier

This is a follow-up article speaking to additional questions in this system type. Considerations for the use of exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS) overclad solutions. The appropriateness of face-sealed systems in certain climate regions. This approach results in a waterproof, breathable, and attractive facade.

Masonry 52
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Using masonry for wet flood-proofing

Construction Specifier

This includes proactively avoiding lower openings or permanently sealing them, retrofitting waterproof closures to lower openings, or providing temporary waterproof membranes or barriers to block flood water intrusion. Figure 2: All masonry materials are classified as Class 5 flood damage-resistant materials.

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Durability with rainscreen masonry wall assemblies

Construction Specifier

Photo courtesy Echelon Masonry. Water, sun, wind, and temperature damage are among the greatest enemies to a building’s structural integrity, even when encased in precast or exterior masonry. One of these methods includes the development of new rainscreen system technologies built with manufactured or natural stone cladding.

Masonry 52
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Overcladding for old masonry façades: why it is important to think performance first

Construction Specifier

Older masonry structures from many eras, including libraries, town halls, commercial blocks, and school buildings, stand at the geographic center of many communities, holding symbolic meaning and serving varied needs and purposes. The resulting degradation can be severe, damaging to brickwork, window openings, and interior plaster walls.”.

Masonry 52
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Protecting Commercial Structures with Robust Water Resistive Systems

Construction Daily News

With this in mind, keep reading as we explore the importance of protecting commercial structures with robust water-resistive systems. Some common culprits include strong winds, extreme interior/exterior temperature differences, stack effect, imbalances between supply/exhaust air systems, and hydrostatic forces.