Tag Archives: Exterior Walls

Improving resilience with fiber-cement siding

Fiber cement can increase the resilience of homes and other structures in the face of environmental threats posed by the sun, precipitation, wind, and fire. In order to maximize the performance of fiber cement against the elements and to successfully install them, owners and builders must be aware of clearances, flashing, placement of joints, proper installation tools, and other requirements provided by manufacturers.

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Masonry cavities

The conversation about the cavity in masonry wall systems, to say the least, is ongoing. There is a general agreement on the need for separation between the backside of the veneer and the exterior face of the structural backup wall. However, there is some discussion about the functions this cavity performs and their prioritization.

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A starting point for precast concrete finishes

The theme of transportation was dominant when architecture firm Leo A. Daly designed a five-building distribution center for Dollar General in Bessemer, Alabama. Rather than opting for a conventional finish on the warehouse’s precast exterior walls, the Omaha-based design firm sought a visual way to bring the theme to life.

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Managing moisture without sacrificing breathability

In the building industry’s ever increasing pursuit of tighter and more waterproof structures, is there a point at which a wall is built too tight? While a watertight assembly is vitally important for wall controlling issues such as mold growth and protecting IAQ, some building practices may be inadvertently making it easier for moisture-related issues to fester.

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