by ken » Tue Feb 19, 2008 6:30 pm

www.cement.org/masonry

Sixth Edition of Concrete Masonry Handbook Debuts at WOC/WOM

In 1951, PCA published the first edition of the Concrete Masonry Handbook for Architects, Engineers, Builders. In January 2008, PCA introduced the sixth edition of the this comprehensive engineering bulletin at the World of Concrete/World of Masonry. While the information has been updated and expanded upon, as always, it reflects state-of-the-practice for concrete masonry construction. The latest version is presented in a brand new layout style, adding color photographs—more than 200—for the first time. In-depth technical information in the form of tables and graphs further explains and depicts design and construction of concrete masonry. More.

TMS Annotated Guide to Masonry Specifications

The Masonry Society’s Architectural Practices Committee has developed the second edition of its Annotated Guide to Masonry Specifications. In plain terms, specifications are directions to builders to help convert plans on paper into actual buildings. The Annotated Guide serves as a template for architects and other specifiers in selecting provisions that are applicable to a project.

The two-column format contains a specification section and a commentary section that provides additional explanation and other important notes to the user. The 60-page guide is based on the 2003 IBC and follows the previous MasterSpec system of numbering: 04810 for unit masonry assemblies—now renumbered as 04 2000 for unit masonry. Published by TMS in 2007. $35. (0610-07), www.masonrysociety.org

New Masonry Today Newsletter from PCA

PCA’s masonry newsletter completes its 16th year with a look at construction inspection, specifically, special inspection in masonry construction. It discusses why construction is inspected, what the role of the inspector is, what should be inspected, how often inspection should occur, and the role of building codes.

This topic is especially timely because evolving codes and design requirements place greater demands on masonry systems, which can lead to more robust (reinforced) masonry construction or more intricate assemblies. Builders are focused on placing walls; inspectors assure that the contractor builds what the designer intended. For both life safety and quality of construction, inspectors fill a critical, and increasingly important role. Click here for a free download or to purchase printed copies.

.. TECHNICAL TIP

Structural Characteristics of Masonry Walls

Reinforced masonry (RM) walls contain reinforcing steel embedded in grout. Not only does this help support compressive loads on a wall, it also offers the main resistance to lateral loads, such as from wind and earthquakes. Unreinforced masonry (URM), on the other hand, either does not contain reinforcement or if reinforcement is present, its effects are neglected. URM is used where lateral loads are anticipated to be minimal.

Though traditional unreinforced masonry is strong in compression, reinforced masonry walls provide superior tensile strength and ductility, allowing for the construction of taller, thinner walls. While grouted reinforced masonry continues to grow in popularity because it offers expanded structural possibilities in masonry design, URM remains a common method of construction for certain applications because it is a cost effective solution that is well suited to supporting compressive loads. More.

.. HELPFUL RESOURCES

NCMA’s TEKs Provide Detailed Information on Concrete Masonry Topics

The National Concrete Masonry Association publishes a series of technical articles referred to as TEKs. Each of these items addresses a single topic on concrete masonry design or construction. The sheets are intended to provide technical expertise to designers, specifiers, builders, and others.

Numbered TEKs are listed under 19 main categories, beginning with “Building Codes & Specifications.” Periodically updated to keep current with related codes and standards, the TEKs are sponsored by local block producers and are accessible online at www.ncma.org. A handy search function allows for fast identification of the desired topic.

...STUCCO FAQ

Q: What is the installed weight of portland cement plaster?

A: This question comes up in both new and repair construction. Designers need to know how much weight the stucco adds to the wall so that they can be sure the structural system provides adequate support.

In new construction, the structural system usually has more than enough strength to support installed plaster. In buildings that are being updated or retrofitted, however, stucco may be placed over existing construction. Especially in this case, designers should verify that the added weight of the new stucco will not exceed the structure’s ability to support it along with whatever other materials remain in place. More.

.. TMS UPCOMING EVENTS

The Masonry Society Heads East and South for Spring 2008

TMS presents its annual University Professors Masonry Workshop at Drexel University this year, where expert researchers in masonry have several ongoing projects. It will be held March 27–29 in Philadelphia, Pa.

Six weeks later, the spring meetings of TMS will be held in Cancun, Mexico from May 13–18. As usual, these committee meetings take place over one and a half days and are followed by meetings of the Masonry Standards Joint Committee (MSJC). This is an exciting time in the MSJC as it marks only the second meeting of the 2011 cycle. After introductory meetings in Pittsburgh, work now begins in earnest. Some committees have already voted on their first ballot.

Cancun isn’t just a pretty destination, though. It was selected partly as an outreach to Central and South America. MitA, or Masonry in the Americas, will follow directly after TMS and MSJC. This event last took place in San Diego, and its aim is to share information from different countries about their masonry practices, including current building techniques and design methods.

For more information about all of the above, visit: www.masonrysociety.org

...WOC/WOM RECAP

When Worlds Collide: Concrete and Masonry

Hanley-Wood has had excellent success with the World of Concrete (WOC), growing the show each year to what it is today, attendees usually numbering 80,000 to 90,000. Hanley-Wood continues to support the growth of the World of Masonry (WOM), a sister show collocated with WOC. With Las Vegas as host, high-energy events like the Bricklayer 500 and the Fastest Trowel on the Block fit right in. Vegas is a showplace, and these contests are attention grabbers.

But the World of Masonry is about more than fast-paced, showy competitions. It’s about bringing together a vibrant industry to learn about the latest and best technology. Each year, booth after booth on the show floor offers first-rate knowledge on products, equipment, labor supply, training, and educational materials. And the on-site education program has a track on masonry topics as well, presented by experts from around the country.

Although the 2008 show just ended, it is not too early to start thinking about next year. For 2009, as in past years, PCA will offer free registration for WOC/WOM via a Web link. Information will follow in this electronic newsletter later in the year.