Making the Open-Plan Office a Better Place to Work
This Update provides guidance on the design of open-plan offices to ensure a more satisfactory workplace environment. It is based on the results of a major consortium research project. Full story
Construction Technology Updates
Repairs to Restore Serviceability in Concrete Structures
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
Effects of Improved Spacer Bar Design on Window Performance
Insulating glass units that employ metal spacer bars are more susceptible to heat loss and condensation, both of which are detrimental to window performance. This Update reports results of research conducted on state-of-the-art spacer bars that can help improve performance. Full story
Fire Resistance and Sound Insulation of Load-Bearing Stud Wall Assemblies
This Update discusses the importance of various factors in achieving the required fire resistance and sound control for load-bearing steel-stud wall assemblies with gypsum board faces. Full story
Slipline Rehabilitation of Watermains with High-Density Polyethylene Pipe
Sliplining is a trenchless pipe rehabilitation technology that offers many advantages compared with traditional open-cut and cover methods. This Update presents information on sliplining installation, performance and cost, based on recent work at NRC’s Institute for Research in Construction. Full story
Dynamic Wind Testing of Commercial Roofing Systems
Single-ply roofs (SPRs) behave differently than built-up roofs and a simple test method is needed to ensure that they perform well under dynamic wind conditions. This Update describes a new test protocol developed by an industry-supported consortium project led by NRC’s Institute for Research in Construction. Full story
Best Practices for Concrete Sidewalk Construction
Concrete sidewalks often fail prematurely. This Update describes practices that will help ensure good long-term performance, safety and comfort. Full story
Behaviour and Performance of Concrete Sidewalks
Sidewalks are key elements of urban infrastructure, have a high replacement cost and often fail prematurely. This Update reviews current construction practices and the types of deformation and damage that reduce service life. Full story
Low-Permeance Materials in Building Envelopes
This Update provides guidance on the use of low-permeance materials towards the outside of walls, for the range of climatic conditions found throughout Canada. By following these recommendations, which are reflected in the 1995 National Building Code, one should reduce the potential for the condensation of moisture in walls. Full story
Preventing Concrete Deterioration Due to Alkali-Aggregate Reaction
Alkali-aggregate reaction is a common cause of concrete cracking that results in significant damage to concrete structures worldwide. This Update explains the mechanisms of alkali-aggregate reaction, its effects on concrete and methods for preventing deterioration from this cause in new construction. Full story
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