SOLID AND VENEER MASONRY WALL SYSTEMS
This property loss investigation focused on bulk water intrusion into this newly renovated historic 1920’s era structure and was both complex and difficult. The structure is on the grounds of Fort Monroe, and faces onto the Chesapeake Bay. Calculations into dew point locations and vapor drive through the altered wall assembly were conducted. They indicated that construction defects and design changes to the building envelope had catastrophically compromised the multi wythe masonry wall’s ability to evacuate moisture.
Veneer Systems: Brick, block or stone cladding is applied over a cavity, or airspace. Veneers are installed over varying types of backup support walls, and employ multiple waterproofing strategies. These systems are commonly designed to allow for water drainage from within the airspace.
Solid Systems: Single or Multi wythe wall systems are composed of solid masonry materials forming both the inner and outer surface of the wall. These can include brick and block systems, single wythe concrete block systems, and terra cotta over masonry backup, which is a specialty system.
Investigations of masonry wall systems include the evaluation of water intrusion, positive pressure issues, effloresence issues, spalling and crazing, construction and installation defects, material defects, and maintenance related damage to surfaces.
Representative Investigations
The Chamberlin-Chesapeke Bay, VA
Columbia Club – Indianapolis, IN
ArchStone Smith Apartments – Minneapolis, MN
Rite Aid Pharmacy – Pittsburgh, PA
Boarders Bookstore – Atlanta, GA