Masonry Magazine April 2004 Page. 19
Specifications & Moisture Penetration in Masonry Construction
Specifications outline the conditions associated with actual projects. From material to manufacturer, specifications are critical in designing a structure, and blue printing important decisions in masonry construction. Once the groundwork has been planned, and the requirements associated with the project summarized, the project can proceed without further complication. For this reason, specifications are the most important phase of any projects preparation. That being said, all too often specifications are altered to accommodate project costs, budgets or schedules. It is an unfortunate circumstance, but a fact that remains very true, especially in masonry construction today.
Substitutions for thru-wall flashing and other masonry accessories are incorporated at the drop of a dime, and what was once considered a well planned process, in the end consists of bad decisions and excessive financial loss for the customer.
Material selection has always been fundamental in the specification process. Upholding specifications, as well as the listed manufacturer, and their products, is vital to a projects prolonged existence.
Masonry products may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but price is still a direct influence in the decision making process. The materials ability to perform properly under adverse conditions should be, by far, the greatest consideration when putting recommendations in writing. Unfortunately this is not always the case, and in the end, more often than not, a price conscious decision winds up costing the client more money, and ultimately jeopardizes the Architectural firm's name, and reputation. Costs associated with restoration alone, often exceed the initial expense of the proposed plan, causing a multitude of endless problems. Unsightly efflorescence and sick building syndrome are prime examples of improper material selection in a project.
Choosing waterproofing products and a manufacturer that you can trust are single-handedly the two most important decisions an Architectural firm can make these days. Primarily, manufacturer's that warrant their masonry products to be free from defects and offer significant guarantees, should have first preference in the submittal process.
Having manufactured quality moisture protection products for over 70 years, Sandell® Manufacturing Co., Inc. knows that protecting a masonry structure from water damage is essential to the buildings prolonged existence. In particular, cavity wall construction is quite defenseless against the harsh effects of the environment, if a proper flashing and drainage system has not been implemented correctly.
In this industry, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, unless of course restoration is the long term plan. Cutting corners is no longer an option, and with the numerous flashing products on the market today, the choices can become very confusing.
Sandell's Copper Laminated Thru-Wall Flashings and Stainless Steel Pre-Formed Metal Flashings are by far, the best choice for moisture protection in cavity wall construction today. Being composed from durable metal, they stand up to the elements with unfailing performance, and are warranted for the life of the structure.
Most manufacturers will not guarantee their products for such an extensive period of time. Sandell knows quality, and most importantly we believe in our products.
We realize that when you put your recommendation in a spec and your name on a building, your reputation is on the line! We stand behind all of our products, as well as beside the Architects that endorse our products in the specification process.
Safeguard your clients for the life of their structure by selecting Sandell Manufacturing Co., Inc., the name within the industry you can trust.
Reference Material:
Sweets-Section 07620, 04082
Master Spec-Section 4810 Unit Masonry Assembly, 4860 Stone Veneer Assembly, 7620 Sheet Metal, 7920 Joint Sealants.
Arcat: Section 04050
For more information on Sandel's complete product line, please contact our office directly.
SANDELL MANUFACTURING CO., INC.
Corporate Office:
310 Wayto Road
Schenectady, NY 12303
Tel: (518) 357-9757
Toll Free: (800) 283-3888
Fax: (518) 357-9636
Branch Office:
1700 Vanderbilt Road
Birmingham, AL 35234
Tel: (205) 263-1030
Toll Free: (877) SANDELL
Fax: (205) 263-1033
E-mail: moreinfo@sandellmfg.com
Website: www.sandellmfg.com