Masonry Magazine October 1980 Page. 20
Complete filling of all mortar joints, keeping the airspace clean, proper tooling techniques, and proper protection of materials and construction are all of extreme importance. More information can be found on this subject in Technical Notes 7B.
Caulking and Sealants. Too frequently, caulking is considered a means of correcting or hiding poor workmanship rather than as an integral part of construction. It should be detailed and installed with the same care as the other elements of construction.
Joints at masonry openings for door and window frames, expansion joints, and other locations where caulking may be required, are susceptible to rain penetration. These areas should be given extra attention during detailing and construction. Also, maintenance programs should be provided for inspection and replacement of sealant or caulking which may have deteriorated. In all cases, the use of a good grade, polysulfide, butyl or silicone rubber sealant is recommended. Oil-based caulks should not be used. Regardless of the type used, proper priming and backing rope are a must. Further information on caulking and sealants can be found in Technical Notes 28 Revised.
Clear Coatings. The general recommendation of the Brick Institute of America, based on many years of experience and study, is not to use silicones or other clear penetrating solutions. If they must be used, they should be used only in specifically controlled and selected sets of circumstances and conditions, as outlined in Technical Notes 7E.
SUMMARY
This Technical Notes is the third in a Series on brick veneer construction. It is concerned primarily with the application of brick veneer over metal stud backup systems used as panel and curtain walls in buildings over three stories in height. Other Technical Notes in this Series address the subject of brick veneer applied to low-rise new and existing construction.
The information and suggestions contained in this Technical Notes are based on the available data and the experience of the technical staff of the Brick Institute of America. The information and recommendations contained herein, if followed with the use of good technical judgment, will avoid many of the problems discussed. Final decisions on the use of details and materials as discussed are not within the purview of the Brick Institute of America and must rest with the project designer, owner, or both.
R4M-9/80