Masonry Magazine February 2004 Page. 12
Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor,
I read with interest your article "Through Thick and Thin" in the November 2003 issue. American Limestone Company has developed a limestone veneer system, the ALC Solution, which incorporates all of the advantages of traditional thin stone veneer and addresses many of the disadvantages cited in the article.
The ALC Solution is a package comprising a framework of metal anchors and standardized limestone architectural elements and one to two-inch thick panels. The anchors are attached to the building's structure enabling the stone elements to slide onto either continuous or individual anchors. The stone elements are then sealed together using traditional mortar or silicone.
The engineering of the metal skeleton allows the stone to rest clear of the wall, making it suitable for use nationwide, including areas subject to freeze-thaw cycles and earthquake prone locations. It also distributes the weight of the stone onto the structure of the building, making brick ledges and relief angles unnecessary. At under 15lbs/sq.ft., the system complies with ACI 530 restrictions.
As for the limitations of thin versus full stone veneer, the ALC Solution includes all architectural elements such as moldings, balustrades, door and window surrounds, return corners and quoins. Should the builder, architect or homeowner require the appearance of a full veneer for example, to combine both brick and stone the Solution's extended anchors may be used to bring the stone surface further out from the wall and flush with the brick.
As Mr. Leonard rightfully states in the article, "We have to figure out better ways of keeping masonry materials on the skin of these buildings."
The ALC Solution presents a way of keeping both the use of limestone and the masonry trade relevant and competitive.
Yours Sincerely,
Rebecca Eldredge
American Limestone Company,
Marketing
Dallas, Texas
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BENNU
EXTENSION
Wings are alternatively reversed and kept upright and direct connect to the front or back of a P.U. or another wing.
BEARING
Bearing wings form a bridge Isid over the ends or along the platform, either parallel or forming an angle with the P.U.
CANTILEVER
Cantilever wings are direct mounted to the Power Unit using smart bars.
CROSS WING
Wings are assembled lengthwise.
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10 Masonry February 2004
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