Flashing takes discipline, as the most anyone will see is the bent edge of a drip edge or a weep vent, but doing it correctly usually determines whether or not the job is profitable for everyone involved. As with all things, flashing masonry has a few standard rules.
Montréal-based firm ARCHITEM Wolff Shapiro Kuskowski architects has unveiled the Mitchell Family House, an innovative residence for young students in Sherbrooke, Qué., which reinvents a century-old campus.
Advancements in masonry and manufacturing technologies have combined with other materials to create ‘green,’ easy-to-install systems. They also meet evolving codes, such as the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB) 2017, a transition to achieving net-zero emission targets by 2030.
The four-storey North Bay Courthouse building in Ontario was retrofitted with a new lateral force-resisting system (LFRS). The interior steel framing and slab connections were structurally strengthened to transfer seismic loading to 13 full-height, reinforced precast concrete shear walls around the building perimeter. Further, cracked masonry joints were repointed, damaged masonry units were replaced, and an elastomeric coating was applied over the entire wall surface.
The tile industry has experienced efflorescence for a long time. It occurs when mineral salt deposits that have leached or migrated from cement and masonry materials are carried to the surface. Although poor installation methods can cause it, building design and product selection also contribute to the problem in both interior and exterior applications.
A historic landmark in Hamilton, Westinghouse HQ, is set to become an energetic hub for commercial and cultural activities, and a blueprint for urban neighbourhood revival.
The long-term performance of brick masonry enclosures requires technically sound design and quality construction practices supported by diligent maintenance procedures throughout the life of the structure.
