CSI East Bay
Construction Disasters (and how to avoid them)
Waterproofing for Success- Principles to Reduce System Failures
David Field, AIA, Richard Avelar & Associates, will discuss various strategies the design professional can use to ensure a successful installation of waterproofing systems. Based on David’s experience performing many peer reviews, David will illustrate situations where if the designer would have taken a different path the project would have been successful.
Stucco Buckets- A Common Cause of Wood Decay in Stucco Construction
Christine Diosdado, P.E., Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, will speak on stucco construction, the lack of adequate weeping provisions at soffit returns, window heads and beams that often times result in water accumulation within the stucco assembly. The wetting of stucco clad wood components over prolonged periods may cause deterioration of the underlying water-resistant barrier (WRB), wood decay and an ultimate reduction in the structural integrity of the wood components. This presentation will define this problematic condition and describes the current code requirements for weeping and venting of stucco-clad assemblies. Ms. Diosdado will outline best practices for design and repair.
Plaza Deck Waterproofing Disasters- Learning effective design and application from waterproofing disasters
Chris Nelson, Technical Roof Services, will focus on pros and cons of different membranes; selecting the appropriate membrane, base flashing heights and door thresholds; drains not draining the waterproofing; and the importance of water testing.
Vinyl and Aluminum Window Performance
Karim Allana, Allana Buick & Bers, will contrast the differences in installation and operation costs, thermal performance, structural integrity, product warranties and design aesthetic between Vinyl and Aluminum, and how they affect system selection and performance. Vinyl and Aluminum fin style Windows are the two most prevalent window assemblies, predominately used in Multifamily residential construction. Participants will gain an understanding of failure issues in relation to how both window assemblies are manufactured and sealed; how their drainage paths work; and how they are integrated into the exterior wall systems. We will explore the impact of performance class on window selection and how elements like building height, temperature and UV exposure, proper maintenance, and conscientious design decisions can impact lifecycle performance. We will review forensic analyses of both vinyl and aluminum windows and provide insight into mitigating performance issues and optimizing operational costs.