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BEST PRACTICES for WATER-RESISTANT BRICK VENEER

Water penetration is responsible for many of the problems encountered in masonry walls today. The successful performance of a masonry wall depends on limiting water penetration and controlling any water that does enter the wall system. Water penetration resistance and control in brick veneer is the focus of this presentation. The concept behind the ‘brick veneer drainage wall’ is discussed in detail, as well as the proper materials to specify in order to maximize a wall's water penetration resistance. Once the ‘concept’ is explained, discussion continues with various wall conditions, including base flashing, shelf angle conditions, wall openings, and parapets. Discussion includes which details work to keep moisture out of the wall--and which do not, which mortar type is best for specific applications, how to keep efflorescence to a minimum, and where flashing and weepholes should be placed to be most effective.

Learning Objectives

1.Discuss primary factors affecting the durability and water penetration resistance of clay brick veneer.

2.Review recommended workmanship practices for drainage wall system construction.

3.Select wall systems that avoid water penetration. Understand how a drainage wall system functions.

4.Design clay brick veneers to include all code required elements of the drainage system (air spaces, throughwall flashings, weeps, etc.)

Credit: 1 AIA LU/HSW