Storefront tie-in
As discussed in Part 1, one of the most challenging transitions is between a storefront system and foundation waterproofing. This transition is often difficult due to site conditions and damage that occurs during typical construction activities. If a curb is not installed, the eventual tie-in will be significantly more difficult, given foundation waterproofing will be covered up at the time the storefront is installed.
If there is no curb, some removal of fill may be required to install a transition membrane between the storefront system and foundation waterproofing. Foundation waterproofing that is damaged during construction needs to be repaired prior to the storefront installation (whether at curb or at grade). In addition, if the transition is at grade, care needs to be taken to protect all repairs. To avoid damage to the foundation waterproofing, temporary protection should be installed to protect the waterproofing until the storefront tie-in can be done and the storefront system is installed, and then backfilling can take place.
Conclusion
All the effort put into the design means nothing if it is not built properly. How unforeseen circumstances are handled during construction can make or break a project’s success—whether this is a part of the sill flashing details or the testing procedures. Fenestration systems and their associated installations remain a hotly contested item for new buildings and require a healthy mix of field experience, testing knowledge, and sometimes creative detailing to accommodate changes that occur that stray away from the original design, in order to still achieve the desired aesthetic and performance.
Authors
Bradford J. Antes, PE, is a consulting engineer within the building technology division in the Simpson, Gumpertz & Heger Inc. (SGH) New York office. He is experienced in the design and investigation of new and existing building enclosure systems. He regularly collaborates with owners, architects, and contractors during design and construction of the building enclosure systems. He can be reached at bjantes@sgh.com.
Erin E. Regan, PE, is a senior consulting engineer within the building technology division in the Simpson, Gumpertz & Heger Inc. (SGH) New York office. She focuses on building energy analysis, finite element analysis, roof design, window and curtain wall systems, and below-grade waterproofing. Regan has experience in design, investigation, rehabilitation, commissioning, and construction administration of historic and contemporary buildings. She can be reached at eeregan@sgh.com.
