Technically Speaking - A Building Podcast

Discussion Points:[2:26] Underlying issues of cracks in reinforced concrete.[4:13] Not all concrete cracks are created equal.[9:15] How elemental factors affect exposed concrete.[13:06] Tendon failures in prestressed and post-tensioned concrete.[16:48] Evaluating concrete cracks for repair.[20:11] Delaminated steel affects concrete strength and requires complete repair. Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

When installed correctly and with recommended maintenance, pavement can retain its durability for more than 25 years. However, a successful pavement project depends on numerous factors, including having a clear scope of work, a competent contractor, and a thorough bidding process. To discuss all facets of a pavement project, Host Joe Shuffleton speaks with expert Ron Brookman. Ron has more than 47 years of experience in the Washington-Baltimore area in pavement installation, reconstruction, rehabilitation, repair, and evaluation project management. During the discussion, Ron shares best practices from beginning the bidding process, characteristics of a qualified pavement contractor, and important closeout procedures.Discussion Points:[1:01] Best practices for finding a reputable pavement contractor.[4:27] Want quality bids? Have a clear scope of work.[8:09] Tips for a smooth bid process.[13:50] Take care to clarify contractor terminology.[17:46] Legal due diligence and contingency payments.[22:49] What to do at project closeout.Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:23] Trey describes the process of becoming certified by the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry.[2:47] Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) has been known by many other names in the past.[3:42] Trey explains the process of installing wall cladding, providing each step in detail.[6:45] In Trey’s experience, he sees vertical trowel lanes used for drainage in EIFS.[7:57] Do finishing top coats provide a weather-tight configuration?[9:29] The three main types of joints associated with EIFS.[12:39] The difference between stucco and EIFS.[14:25] Trey describes the history of EIFS in the United States, issues found in early installations, and why it is still a preferred wall cladding.[18:32] Building codes, common practices, and how to recognize possible issues with EIFS.[21:48] Repair or maintenance of EIFS wall cladding requires a qualified contractor with EIFS experience.Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points: [1:35] Resurfacing a balcony with carpeting, or other material can break building codes and become unsafe. [8:15] Surface coatings such as aggregate, can protect concrete balconies as well as provide comfort. [9:30] General rules for creating a safe and conscious garden on a balcony. [12:52] Seal coating pavement with cracks is not a sustainable repair solution. [14:30] Brick buildings are beautiful but do not let destructive ivy grow on them. [18:00] Painting brick causes more water intrusion problems than it solves.  Resources: ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:10] Nick describes what constitutes structural soundness and the conditions that may lead to structural damage.[3:05] Initial design and maintenance are key factors in reducing occurrences of slab overload.[7:16] Long-term neglect raises the likelihood of building collapse.[8:18] Unsafe conditions and deferred repairs or maintenance can cause serious damage and injury.[10:40] Tell-tale signs of a lack of structural integrity in buildings.[15:55] Reserve inspections, generally, do not provide information about a building’s structural integrity.[19:03] A qualified structural engineer will holistically assess a building’s past repairs and current complaints to identify potential integrity issues. Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:35] Resurfacing a balcony with carpeting, or other material can break building codes and become unsafe.[8:15] Surface coatings such as aggregate, can protect concrete balconies as well as provide comfort.[9:30] General rules for creating a safe and conscious garden on a balcony.[12:52] Seal coating pavement with cracks is not a sustainable repair solution.[14:30] Brick buildings are beautiful but do not let destructive ivy grow on them.[18:00] Painting brick causes more water intrusion problems than it solves. Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:35] Bobby describes some root causes for cracks in masonry walls.[3:12] Control joints and/or wall ties are necessary for masonry walls due to the possible expansion and corrosion of brick material.[5:20] Drainage problems and water damage to brick will cause bulges and cracks in walls.[7:55] Causes for cracks in masonry walls can differ by geographical area.[9:16] Possible outcomes if cracks in brick masonry walls are not properly fixed.[14:16] Evaluating cracks in masonry walls requires a visual inspection, sampling of the wall, or other non-intrusive testing.[17:10] A General Rule of Thumb for simple or complicated repairs in masonry wall cracks.Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:34] Information on properly qualifying contractors.[5:25] Smaller tasks help vet contractors before hiring them for larger projects.[6:47] Payment and performance bonds are part of a contractor’s fiduciary responsibility.[8:45] Investigating a problem for a tenant and evaluating a contractor’s proposal.[13:44] Every county is different, are permits required?Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:09] The three types of shrinkage cracks and how to determine if a crack in concrete is structural or cosmetic.[3:06] How chlorides and other contaminants cause corrosion in a structure’s steel frame.[4:43] A crack in concrete is akin to an open wound in the structure.[6:41] Understanding freeze-thaw cracks, restraint cracks, and other common causes of concrete cracks.[12:06] Examining the possible hazards if cracks in concrete are left unrepaired.[14:04] Evaluating cracks in concrete structures.[17:32] Repair options, maintenance cycles, and subsequent protection for concrete cracks.Resources:ETC WebsiteAmerican Concrete InstituteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:34] How long a retaining wall will last depends on whether it is built with timber, concrete or masonry, or segmental block.[7:46] Recommended maintenance for retaining walls.[10:26] Typical cost associated with installing or replacing retaining walls.[13:00] Top three considerations when choosing a retaining wall replacement.[18:01] Geotechnical reports and permits are common requirements before installation or replacement of a retaining wall.[20:39] Changed Use and Fall protection guidelines for retaining walls.Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:13] Before removing a stain, find the origin.[3:20] Take care when pressure washing common white calcium stains.[5:33] Advice for removing graffiti from high-traffic areas.[7:46] Painting a brick building is inadvisable and costly to reverse.[12:03] Tips for reducing the cost of external building maintenance.[16:01] Rules-of-thumb for repointing a masonry wall.[21:28] Flashings can reduce water intrusion around tops of walls and coping stones.Resources:ETC WebsiteListen to more Behind the Masonry Wall  Podcast Episodes

Discussion Points:[1:09] Simple upgrades that do not require a permit or approval to increase the eye appeal of a building or units.[3:04] Tips for upgrading kitchens and storage areas to increase rental income.[8:00] Puck lighting creates an attractive ambiance under kitchen cabinets.[9:21] Bumper stops and hinges can refine cabinets and doors.[11:51] Prospective renters notice enhanced fixtures in kitchens and baths.[14:02] Corridor and common area considerations for apartment buildings.[21:56] A hefty investment is no longer needed to offer desirable amenities.[25:28] Recommendations for beautifying bedrooms.

Discussion Points: [1:01] The structural failure possibilities of water infiltration due to inadequate installation of control joints.[3:38] How to fix cracks due to the lack of control joints.[7:28] Cracks in parapet walls and the Brick Industry Association recommendations for control joints.[8:17] The importance of the binding of brick to mortar, and wall ties.[13:06] Antiquated header courses increase the structural failure rate.[15:45] Common problems with corrugated wall ties.[16:30] Ninety percent of water intrusion issues are due to flashings and lack of end dams.[22:01] Benefits and concerns about mortar nets.

Engineering and Technical Consultants (ETC) is a team of engineers, architects and building professionals helping property managers & owners identify and correct building problems. We share practical information, along with industry tips-and-tricks from the challenging construction world. There's no hidden agenda - we're just here to serve as your trusted advisors. @etc-web.com