Masonry Magazine March 2011 Page. 34
MOISTURE MANAGEMENT
top surface of the collection device, reducing the ability of moisture to exit through the weeps as well as block the weeps from allowing air movement within the cavity. One manufacturer adds an extra benefit to its product with an insect barrier thermally attached to its mortar collection device. In many of our areas, insects are a nuisance that must be controlled by chemicals. With this insect barrier attached to a commonly used product, it can become a convenience as well as a money saver for the occupant of the building. The addition of the insect barrier has been a positive effort in the rebirth of an industry standard.
Flashings are the most important component of the cavity wall system with the exception of the exterior veneer. Many products exist and many products claim to be the best, however every product has initial cost as well as hidden costs that often are not estimated or tracked within a project. Site fabrication, picking up materials at the supplier, and installing components of varied lengths can become cumbersome as well as produce waste greater than estimated.
When designing flashing systems it is important that the membrane extend to the front face of the wall (with the exception of an asphalt-based membrane). If this condition is not met, then the flashing can allow the moisture that is draining to the exterior of the building to fall short and enter the cores or cells of the veneer. Water that enters
Shown are corner boots and end dams
the interior of the veneer is slow to evaporate, especially during the cooler months of the year.
Drip edges manufactured with plastic, stainless steel, copper or a Kynar finish are essential to the overall performance of the flashing system and membrane, because it allows the cavity moisture an avenue to escape beyond the face of the veneer. Use of the exposed drip edge is recommended for overall flashing performance as well as a tool showing owners and architects visual proof that the system is designed as intended.
SANDELL CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS
System Reliability Built In
Flashing & Drainage Systems
Sandell's Copper Fabric Flashing
Its high corrosion resistance, minimum maintenance requirements and good economy make Sandell's copper laminate flashing ideal for your commercial flashing needs. After working extensively with copper for over 70 years, Sandell knows that copper, with its unfailing characteristics, is the best flashing choice - offering cost-effective, reliable protection for the life of the structure.
Sandell's Drainage System
Sandell's renowned Drainage Solutions can help masons focus on what they do best-laying brick-instead of worrying about subsequent moisture damage. Our easily installed, economical products virtually eliminate callbacks by allowing moisture to easily migrate out of the masonry cavity wall. Many of our environmentally friendly products are made entirely of recycled materials.
* Sandell's Mortar Web
* Sandell's Round & Rectangular Weeps
* Sandell's Cell Vents
View our Sandell & Diedrich lines, technical data & other helpful resources online:
www.sandellmfg.com | www.diedrichtechnologies.com
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