Greetings!
Welcome to the initial issue of Masonry Solutions for 2012. One would surmise that our building exteriors would be in good shape following our unusually calm winter. However, don't let the good weather fool you. Time will always take its toll, and Spring is the best time to inspect your building for potential masonry problems.
In this issue, our Case Study article describes Abbot's restoration to the brick facade of the Hegarty Pump Station in Wellesley, MA. Our Masonry 101 article is describe the importance of moisture management in masonry wall systems.
We trust that you will benefit from the information provided in this publication. If you have any comments or questions, or would like an estimate on a masonry repair project, we can be reached at
617-445-0274 or at www.abbotbuilding.com.
Sincerely,
Michael Norman, President
Abbot Building Restoration Company, Inc.
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Abbot Restores Town of Wellesley Water Pump Station Brick Facade
 Abbot recently completed a masonry restoration project at the Hegarty Pump Station, a one-story brick building operated by the Town of Wellesley Water Department in Wellesley, MA, whose façade was in need of significant repair.
Abbot was contacted by the Town of Wellesley to evaluate the brick and mortar deterioration, and provide remedial action. Abbot's solution was to first power wash the entire building to remove the atmospheric dirt and moss, and then repoint the brick where needed. Abbot then rebuilt the badly deteriorated brick on the column to the left of the main entranceway. To complete the project, Abbot applied a water repellent industrial coating to the entire façade to provide a durable weather resistant protective barrier.
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Moisture Management of Masonry Walls
Sustainable masonry building is not possible without moisture management. When uncontrolled, moisture can weaken the building structure, cause growth of mold and other biological contaminants, reduce the thermal resistance of insulation materials, and more.
While tighter building codes mandate the design and implementation of waterproofing methods, absolute protection from the elements is unrealistic. Moisture can enter from the outside via wind driven rain or snow and through cracks in the veneer. Moisture can also enter from the inside in the form of condensation.
Weep Holes and Air Vents
One of the most important aspects of a properly constructed building wall is a well designed drainage system. A key component of the drainage system is the "rainscreen drainage plane". This is the space between the backside of the rainscreen and the front surface of a moisture resistant coating or material. Utilizing a series of weep holes, water is removed from the rainscreen drainage plane at transition details (e.g, brick to stucco), projection details (e.g., windows at top and bottom), and wall terminations (e.g., bottom and top of wall). To be effective, weep holes must be frequently placed at the lowest point in the masonry wall (the bed joint of mortar). Of course, as part of an effective rainscreen design, proper installation of flashings is critical.
 A well designed drainage system also helps maintain air pressure equalization through a series of vents. This reduces the chances that high pressure air laden with moisture will move deeper into the building envelope. With venting at both the top and bottom of the wall, the resulting air flow may also assist in drying out the building envelope.
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Abbot Building Restoration Company, Inc.
28 Allerton Street, Boston, MA 02119
Tel: 617-445-0274 · Fax: 617-445-0277
estimating@abbotbuilding.com · www.abbotbuilding.com
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Featured Articles
Case Study
Abbot recently restored the brick facade at the Hegarty Pump Station in Wellesley, MA.
See full article below
Masonry 101
Moisture management is a critical element of any masonry wall system design.
See full article below
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Abbot Announces Organizational Changes
With the retirement of our long-time President, Angelo Diodati, Michael Norman moves from Vice President to President, with day-to-day responsibility in the areas of contract work and client negotiations.
Steven Diodati takes over as Vice President and Director of Operations, where is responsible for maintaining the efficiency of the firm's project operations, including construction scheduling and production. In addition, he is responsible for quality assurance and the integrity of craftsmanship and materials provided for each project.
Michael Diodati, Director of Field Operations, is primarily responsible for coordinating day-to-day operations for Abbot's Large Project Division, including managing multiple crews and maintaining the construction schedule.
Michael Norman represents the second generation and the Diodati brothers represent the third generation of hands-on leadership for the firm. Since all three are descendants of the founding principals, they take pride in their family-oriented management approach.
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