Masonry Magazine September 2004 Page. 39
ADVERTISEMENT
SPECIAL REPORT
Mortar Net Eliminates Straight Strip Product
Testing reveals an inherent product limitation that may cause wall failure in masonry construction.
Due to it's unwavering commitment to supply the very best products to the masonry industry, Mortar Net USA, Ltd. has discontinued one product and redesigned another after reviewing extensive testing on both.
Mortar Mitt, the company's straight strip product used in cavity wall drainage for the past eight years, will no longer be available to distributors. Independent tests conducted in April 2004 at Architectural Testing. Inc.. York, PA revealed a limitation in straight strip product functioning that could lead to wall failure. This investigation shows that straight strip products collect mortar droppings on one plane, creating a dam which severely inhibits air flow in and moisture flow out of the weep holes, leading to the potential for future moisture damage.
Director of Sales Patrick Lee, Jr. said that straight strip products have been a popular choice for cavity wall drainage but, even under optimal conditions, they fail to provide reliable drainage protection. "We're discontinuing the manufacture and distribution of the straight strip product because the results of the testing were so dramatic."
"We set out to prove that Mortar Net's dovetail design was considerably more effective than straight strip. What we actually discovered was that the straight strip product's performance was far worse than expected. We now realize that Mortar Net is so superior that straight strip should not be used in any circumstance where optimal cavity wall function is desired. To promote, or recommend this type of product, would contradict Mortar Net USA, Ltd. 's commitment to quality and integrity."
Mortar Net, the company's patented mortar dropping collection device, features a dovetail shape designed to break up the mortar on two distinct levels, thereby ensuring a clear path for water to migrate around the droppings, through the weep holes and out to the exterior of the wall. It also allows for proper air movement in and out of the cavity. This eliminates pressure differentials that force moisture into the cavity and promotes excellent air flow to aid in rapid drying of the wall.
According to Lee, drainage analysis combined with new air flow/ventilation testing prompted the company's decision to discontinue Mortar Mitt.
"Though we knew Mortar Net was unrivaled, we acknowledged there was a market for a less expensive product, which took the form of straight strip. However, we now recognize that straight strip doesn't work in an air flow or ventilation application," he said. "With Mortar Net's dovetail shape we can virtually guarantee that you won't have to worry about mortar droppings, which are an inevitable occurrence during masonry construction."
Chris Bupp, Sales Manager, Northwestern States, explained that ventilation testing also inspired Mortar Net USA Ltd.'s decision to redesign their popular Weep Vent product. Weep Vents fit into the weep holes blocking insects and debris while promoting air flow and allowing moisture to escape.
This product was tested at three different wind speeds and consistently outperformed against the competition at each level. "We redesigned Weep Vents and got a substantial improvement in cubic feet per minute," Bupp said.
He added that the redesigned product looks very similar to the old product and had no effect on the price. "We've been the leader in cavity wall drainage systems from the beginning," Bupp said. "With the rise of air flow concerns, we decided we wanted to take this product to a new level and be far superior to the competition not just better."
"One of the things about Mortar Net USA, Ltd. that I'm especially proud of is that we are a very forward-looking company," Bupp stated. "We continually look ahead to see how we can improve our products and services in the future."
Lee agreed. "Mortar Net USA, Ltd.'s goal is not simply to provide a piece of material that may or may not help with drainage. Our goal is to provide a product that will absolutely assist with drainage and maximize the functionality of the cavity wall structure."
When all aspects of a cavity wall's function and potential are taken into account, a straight strip product is not a reasonable option.
Lee further states that one of Mortar Net USA, Ltd.'s commitments to the masonry industry is that they will not manufacture or sell a product that does not meet the highest standards for quality or pass the most rigourous testing for functionality.
"Mortar Net USA, Ltd.'s goal is not simply to provide a piece of material that may or may not help with drainage. Our goal is to provide a product that will absolutely assist with drainage and maximize the functionality of the cavity wall structure.
Patrick Lee, Jr., Director of Sales
FOR COMPLETE TESTING INFORMATION AND RESULTS, VISIT WWW.MORTARNET.COM/MM
CIRCLE 138 ON READER SERVICE CARD