Existing Masonry Series:
Assessment, Maintenance, and Repair of Transitional Masonry Structures: 1880 to 1945
The Existing Masonry Series discusses common issues in assessing, maintaining, and where needed, repairing masonry cladding systems constructed in North America between the 1880 and 1945. The series begins with a review of common masonry materials and masonry systems then discusses important aspects of developing a building investigation program. Later sessions discuss approaches for testing, rehabilitating and maintaining existing masonry building.
or purchase sessions individually at the links below
| Session 1 – Review of Common Masonry Materials Presented by Edward Gerns & Rachel Will, Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc |
| Session 2 – Masonry Systems Presented by Tom Elliott & Brian Trimble, International Masonry Institute |
| Session 3 – Planning and Conducting a Transitional Masonry Building Investigation Presented by Peter Babaian, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, Inc. |
| Session 4 – Testing and Analysis Presented by Michael Schuller, Atkinson-Noland & Associates |
| Session 5 – Rehabilitation Options for Transitional Masonry Presented by Matthew Farmer, Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. |
| Session 6 – Implementation of a Rehabilitation Project for Transitional Masonry Presented by Edward Gerns, Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc |
| Session 7 – Developing a Maintenance Plan for Existing Masonry* Presented by Casey Williams, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, Inc. |
| Continuing Education Credit: 1 PDH / 0.10 CEU / 1 AIA LU per session* *Does not qualify for AIA LUs |
Course Descriptions
Session 1 – Review of Common Masonry Materials
This session of the existing masonry series reviews masonry materials commonly used in cladding systems between the 1880 and 1945 in North America, including brick, terra cotta, concrete masonry, cast stone, natural stone, and mortar. Common material properties, uses, and deterioration mechanisms will be presented. It is recommended that attendees watch Masonry 101 – Introduction to Masonry Units before watching this webinar in order to become familiar with the terminology used. Purchasing this course also provides free access to that course.
Session 2 – Masonry Systems
This session of the existing masonry series discusses the typical masonry exterior wall systems, commonly referred to as transitional masonry wall systems and how to identify them. These wall systems combine aspects of both load-bearing masonry and modern curtain wall systems having structural frames. The unique features of such construction are examined along with how these systems work structurally, how they deteriorate, and how they manage water, temperature, air, and vapor transmission. Knowing how these wall systems behave will assist in determining what repair methods and procedures to use.
Session 3 – Planning and Conducting a Transitional Masonry Building Investigation
This session of the existing masonry series focuses on the important aspects of developing an investigation program for a transitional masonry building, including information to gather, areas for inspection, ongoing monitoring, the potential for investigative openings and laboratory testing to inform potential structural analyses to consider. Examples of different deterioration mechanisms and manifestations will be highlighted.
Session 4 – Testing and Analysis
Building on concepts presented during prior sessions, this session discusses approaches for obtaining information on material properties and how to use that information to understand structural capacity following applicable codes and guidelines. Several in situ methods are available for determining masonry mechanical properties including compression and shear strength. Laboratory tests are also used for determining material strength in addition to material characteristics such as mortar composition, masonry pore structure, and moisture content. The process of evaluating structural and nonstructural component compliance will be discussed in the context of guidelines and building codes, concentrating on transitional masonry building typologies.
Session 5 – Rehabilitation Options for Transitional Masonry
Once the assessment is complete and the deterioration mechanisms are known, rehabilitation options can be considered. This session introduces rehabilitation options for the transitional masonry wall system to be considered based on deterioration mechanisms, including those related to structural concerns and water management. The session discusses the potential influence of the Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties in rehabilitation options as they apply to these buildings.
Session 6 – Implementation of a Rehabilitation Project for Transitional Masonry
Once an assessment is complete and a rehabilitation approach has been selected, implementing the rehabilitation work is the next milestone. Bid documents for rehabilitation projects of traditional masonry wall systems should address two fundamental issues. First, all existing conditions, particularly concealed conditions, are not known and can’t be known until the work begins. Further, these conditions are progressively revealed as the work progresses. Second, the as-built geometry of the concealed portions of assembly may differ from what was revealed during the investigation or what was shown on the drawings. These geometries and concealed conditions could require modifications of the assumed repair details and potentially the scope and extent of repairs. Once the repair work begins, interaction and communication between the contractor, designer and owner are critical to the success of the project and controlling project costs. This session introduces the basic approaches for implementation of the rehabilitation including document preparation and field implementation of the repairs.
Session 7 – Developing a Maintenance Plan for Existing Masonry
While masonry is extraordinarily durable, maintenance is required from time to time. Based on inspection and assessments performed, issues may be found that require regular monitoring. Learn about common maintenance for masonry to ensure it continues to serve as intended. Techniques to routinely monitor the condition of masonry, cracks and more will also be discussed.