An effective and durable window installation demands good airtightness and proper water management. This Update explains how the degree of airtightness and the location of the plane of airtightness of the wall-window interface affect water entry. It is the second in a series of Updates presenting results from studies of window installation details. Full story
Satisfactory window performance demands a good product and proper installation. This Update presents results from a recent study of sill installation details for the effective drainage of inadvertent water entry at the wall-window interface. Full story
This Update reviews NRC-IRC research on the fire resistance of externally bonded, fibre-reinforced polymer (FRPs) systems used for repairing concrete building members. The research showed that FRP systems that include specially designed insulation can enable repaired or strengthened concrete members to exceed the 4-hour fire resistance requirements of building codes. Full story
This Update discusses the results of a research project that examined the impacts of two types of high-performance window glazing (low solar heat gain and high solar heat gain) on energy consumption in residential applications. Full story
Selection of proper materials is essential to the construction of basements that will provide liveable and comfortable indoor space. This Update discusses some of the key materials issues in basement construction and reviews the options regarding available materials and methods, including recent developments that enhance performance and efficiency. Full story
Proper site grading and foundation drainage strategies are required in order to prevent water damage to basements and their contents. This Update reviews current construction practices used for basements, discusses some of the key issues and deficiencies that lead to problems, and provides practical suggestions for improving drainage and construction. Full story
Permanent damage to older masonry walls and premature failure of repointing work can result from improper selection and application of repointing mortars. This Update describes key design elements for achieving successful repointing of masonry walls to provide a longer service life for both the masonry units and the mortar. Full story
This Update presents information critical to the successful application of repointing mortars for the conservation of older masonry buildings . Full story
There is increasing interest in the garden roof system as a sustainable building design option in North America today. This Update reports the results of a field study to evaluate the thermal performance of this technology, as well as its potential to retain storm water runoff. Full story
Lasting repairs of deteriorated concrete structures depend on careful selection of materials and methods suitable for the service and application conditions. This Update describes the factors that facility managers and designers need to consider to ensure durable repairs. The factors discussed address the restoration of serviceability and the correction of cosmetic defects and are not applicable to failures resulting from overloading. Full story
