Masonry Magazine October 2009 Page. 20
Flashing and Drainage
It HAS BECOME INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT TO CUT THROUGH THE CLUTTER when choosing products for flashing and drainage systems in cavity wall construction. Manufacturers now are trying constantly to reinvent the wheel with new and improved materials, driven by the notion of holding the only acceptable product in a specification. It is no longer function or development that drives new products to the marketplace, but the race to beat one's competition to the idea.
Performance, warranties and even aesthetics need to play an integral role in the products we choose. While mostly tucked away behind the face of the wall, your flashing system is the first line of defense against problems associated with moisture penetration. Mold, efflorescence, cracking due to freeze/thaw cycles, and general degradation are all effects of inferior flashing materials, systems or installations.
Synthetic flashings, while considered cost effective, typically offer
Rubberized asphalt can become thin and seep out of the joint from underneath.
Components in Cavity
Wall Construction
BY JEREMY DOUGLAS