Failures: Rules of (gasket) engagement

Wedge gasket profile (prior to installation) with integral locking barb intended to engage into recessed raceway within the joint.Photos courtesy Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates (WJE). Preformed gaskets are commonly used to secure glazing and reduce water penetration—and in some instances air flow—through joints in exterior wall assemblies due to their relative consistency, ease of installation, […]

Growing older, growing taller – Construction Specifier

Figure 1: Cumulative clay brick expansion over the height of this mid-rise apartment building resulted in substantial misalignment of bed joints at an upper floor level. Photo courtesy Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates (WJE) Unlike natural stone, concrete masonry, or calcium-silica brick (see “Failures” October 2024), clay masonry units will experience irreversible expansion over time as […]