SEMINAR SERIES

Protective Treatments for Masonry
Protective treatments for masonry aim to prevent water damage and enhance durability by creating a barrier against moisture penetration. These treatments can be broadly categorized into water repellents (like silicones, silanes, and siloxanes), sealers, and coatings. Each type offers varying degrees of protection and breathability, with options suitable for different types of masonry and specific needs like graffiti control. This seminar provides an overview of the effects of water on masonry and the types of masonry water repellents are compared and contrasted. Proper application methods are discussed. The program ends with a look at treatments for protecting masonry against non-water threats such as oil and graffiti.

Designing for Durability: Thermal Efficiency and Water Resistance in Masonry Wall Assemblies
Thermal efficiency and water resistance are critical for long-term performance of a masonry wall assembly. In this seminar we discuss how to specify masonry accessories to support the design intent and project requirements. This includes how to specify the appropriate veneer tie as well as their spacing. Thermal bridging will be addressed and how tie selection can minimize thermal loss. In a similar fashion, steel shelf angles will be discussed with the newer offset angles used to minimize thermal bridging.

Hands-on Masonry
The SpecMix Bricklayer 500 event is an opportunity for attendees to observe and practice brick and block laying techniques. Local BAC craftworkers will showcase how to lay masonry units and experienced instructors will guide the spreading of mortar, applying mortar to the units, and installing the units into a wall. You'll get the opportunity to install both brick and block units and understand the differences in techniques needed for each.