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U.S. Cement Manufacturers Realizing Progress in Carbon Neutrality
U.S. Cement Manufacturers Launch Microsite to Showcase Early Progress in Realizing Carbon Neutrality. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, PCA America’s Cement Manufacturers, 3-29-23
A Healthy Attachment
Keeping stucco and EIFS secured to surfaces. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Albert Carillo, 3-29-23
Stucco: So Controversial. Why?
Stucco is simple: sand, cement and lime. How can something so simple have so much controversy? Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Mark Fowler 2-9-23
Decarbonization Strategy for Existing Commercial Buildings
The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act includes financial incentives for commercial and multi-family building owners to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Tom Harris, 2-15-23
Stucco and Drainage Planes
The intent of this article, prepared by members of an AWCI subcommittee on lath and plaster, is to provide information on model code language specific to the requirement of a drainage system or drainage material behind exterior cement plaster cladding. Construction Dimensions, December 2022
EIFS in NYC
New York City is set to initiate a major code change that will affect the design and installation of certain types of exterior wall assemblies. Construction Dimensions, Robert Grupe December 2022
Decorative and Functional Plasters
Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Rob Knight, December 12, 2022
BSI-133: Covert Covid Thoughts…
My Spidey sense is tingling. Note that this is an “opinion column. Work with me on this: In response to COVID, the CDC and others are now recommending a room air change rate of 4 to 6 air changes per hour. Building Science Insights, Joe Lstiburek, July 15, 2022
Construction Input Prices Are Up 21% from a Year Ago
Construction input prices rose 2.3% in May compared to the previous month, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Producer Price Index data released June 14. Nonresidential construction input prices also increased 2.3% for the month. Construction Dimensions Magazine, August 2022
In Memoriam: Frank Morsilli
Francesco (Frank) P. Morsilli, the founder of Dryvit Systems, Inc., died May 28 at his retirement home in Naples, Fla. Morsilli introduced exterior insulation and finish systems to North America in 1969. Construction Dimensions Magazine, August 2022
Low-tech skills architects need to keep in a high-tech world
As architects continue to lean into learning and mastering the latest technologies, let us not forget the foundational, fundamental skills that are still expected by clients. Building Design + Construction, RS&H National Design Director Philip Robbie April 26, 2022
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Product Focus on WRBs/ Waterproofing
Air and WRB, Waterproofing Membrane, Drainable Wraps, Barrier Systems, Continuous Insulation, Self-Adhering Waterproof Membrane, Water Proofing & Ventilation Mats. Walls and Ceilings Magazine July 27, 2022
Five Plaster Binders
An outline of the five mineral binders used in plasters/ mortars. Walls and Ceilings, Patrick Webb July 27. 2022
EXCELLENT ARTICLE!
What is a Perm?
A perm is simply a unit of measure for the amount of water vapor that will pass through a given area of a
material over a period of time…Laverne Dalgleish, ABAA
Sealant Performance and Compatibility: The Great Disconnect
Sealant compatibility with air barriers, moisture-resistive barriers and self-adhered modified bitumen wraps and flashings is most important to long-term adhesion. Chamberlin Roofing and Waterproofing, Ben T. Hixon CCA CCS Hixon Consultants, July 23, 2020
The Growth of Prefabricated Exterior Walls
Prefabricated exterior walls are changing the game in construction by providing customized constructability solutions. Building Enclosure, Richard Martens, 1-12-22
Sto Panel Technology Drives Innovation with Cutting-Edge Technology
Sto Corp. is empowering architects and designers with unprecedented creative freedom through recent advancements in its Sto Panel Technology® business. Building Enclosure 2-4-22
4 Ways to Prevent Common Building Envelope Failures
Builder shares a few helpful steps on how to create an envelope that will stand the test of time. Builder Magazine, Emily Newton October 21 2021
The Growth of Prefabricated Exterior Walls
Prefabricated exterior walls are changing the game in construction by providing customized constructability solutions. Building Enclosure, Richard Martens January 12, 2022
EPS Insulation Supports Energy-Efficient Buildings
Global Sustainability Initiatives Gain Momentum. Building Enclosure Magazine. Tom Savoy 9-8-21.
Thermal Short Circuits
A conversation regarding compromised fireproofing during an inherent stage of application. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Tim Vellrath, June 4, 2021
Air Barrier Association of America 2021 3rd Quarter Newsletter
We just stumbled upon this – Good Stuff. Credit AABA 2021
Air Barrier Association of America Quality Assurance Program
What is the Site Quality Assurance Program? Air Barrier Association of America
Reducing Carbon Dioxide from Cement Production
Finland – Based Company Develops Technique to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions From Cement Production, Builder Magazine, Mary Salmonsen, October 15, 2021
Stucco in Residential Construction Update
My how time flies! The last time we addressed our handbook on Stucco in Residential Construction (3rd edition) was an errata in 2019. Well we have some news to share: We have been working on an update based on drainage requirements that will likely be implemented in the next code cycle. Stay tuned!
Four Reasons to Consider Panelized EIFS
If you’re looking for a speedy construction process, quality control, design flexibility and cost-efficient option, panelized EIFS may be the right call for your next project. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Rick Bunting, July 23, 2021
New E-Screen from Clark Dietrich Brings Effective Moisture Management
Clark Dietrich is adding a new solution to help contractors and builders address moisture management and drainage in exterior wall assemblies with the introduction of E-Screen, a polypropylene entangled mesh rain screen drainage mat. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, August 3, 2021
The Importance of Weather-Resistant Barriers
Weather-resistant barriers can both protect a structure’s walls from air and water infiltration and keep moisture from accumulating in the wall systems. Building Enclosure, Michael Smalley, July 7 2021.
The 10 Keys to a Quality Stucco Job
Want a stucco job done right? Follow these ten steps. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Bruce Bell, June 9, 2021
Commercial construction contractors upbeat on outlook despite worsening material shortages, worker shortages
88% indicate difficulty in finding skilled workers; of those, 35% have turned down work because of it. Building Design and Construction. MARKET DATA |JUNE 17, 2021 |U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Is it an Air Barrier, WRB, Vapor Barrier or Coating of Peanut Butter?
Takeaways from the Air Barrier Symposium held at the Center for Architecture and Design, Philadelphia 2020. Bernardon, John Rock AIA, 2-10-20
Understanding Walls
Wall assemblies should be designed and constructed for specific hygro-thermal regions, Building Science Corp., Joe Lstiburek, December 15, 2020
Climate Action
SIGNIFICANT POTENTIAL EXISTS IN THE ENERGY RETROFIT OF NORTH AMERICA’S BUILDINGS
IBC Changes Regarding Exterior Cement Plaster
Q: Can you explain the recent changes in the International Building Code regarding exterior cement plaster? Construction Dimensions, Robert Grupe, March 2021
Improving Stucco Performance
The Better the understanding of stucco, the better the stucco installation. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, William Spilchen P.E., March 17, 2021
Weather barriers, water-resistive barriers, air barriers, and vapor retarders – Are they not all the same?
Control layers are not materials. Each control layer provides a different function in a building enclosure. Air Barrier Association of America, Laverne Dalgleish/ Brian Stroik, March 2021
Capillarity Sucks
One moisture transport mechanism that is often overlooked in building construction is capillarity or capillary suction. Building Science Corp., Joe Lstiburek, March 15, 2021
The Climate of Change
An Overview of how the Energy Crisis of the 70’s Helped Birth a Stronger Initiative Toward the Energy Efficient Building Movement. Walls and Ceilings, Scott Robinson, January 15, 2021
Why Wall Flashing Installation Errors Are So Common
SBC Magazine. Originally published by the Journal of Light Construction. Christine Williamson, August 27, 2020
Zero Energy Buildings growth driven by government policy, stringent codes, technologies
Restraints include high upfront cost, and lack of universal definition and approaches. Building Design + Construction. Codes and Standards, Peter Fabris, January 11, 2021
2021 Construction Forecast
Non-Residential Building Spending will drop 5.7%, Bounce Back in 2022. Building Design +Construction, Market Data, January 19, 2021
Moroccan Aesthetics
A Break-down of Moroccan-Like Plaster Tailored for the U.S. Market. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Patrick Webb 12-7-2020
Cement Stucco: What Contractors Need to Know
Webinar by Walls and Ceilings Magazine. John Wyatt Editor for W&C/ Mark Fowler Stucco Manufacturers Association. 2020
States Adopt New Energy-Saving Rules but COVID-19 Slows Overall Progress
Minnesota (#9), the Midwest’s leader, continues to report strong results from utility-run programs that help customers save energy. Building Enclosure 12-16-20
Fans come first at Allianz Field
The new home of the Minnesota United soccer club wins a Silver Award in BD+C’s 2020 Building Team Awards. Building Design and Construction, Building Team Awards, David Malone, November 2020
Overcladding Strategies for Institutional Buildings
Overcladding is one method that can be implemented to renew or upgrade the exterior façade while allowing the building to remain in full operation. Building Enclosure, Michael Chafetz and Douglas Pac, August 2020
Two Wrongs
Academics Don’t Always Understand That The Country Needs Skilled Labor—And That A Computer Won’t Fill That Gap. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Mark Fowler October 2020
Stucco Most Common Siding on New Homes
Although the most popular siding in each region varies, stucco was used the most on new builds last year. BUILDER October 2020
Stucco Manufacturers Assoc. Online Video Training Now Available
SMA will offer online video training and certification to stucco installers. Take a glimpse at our introduction to the upcoming 7-part training modules. Stucco Manufacturers Association 9-2020
How to Consider Costs and Benefits for High-Performance Residential Buildings
Investing in high-performance construction strategies may come at a premium as you learn the specifics of green design, but many of the costs can be recouped. NAHB Best in America Living, 8-2020
Setting Straight the Cladding Conundrum: EIFS vs Metal Panels
Why choose EIFS over metal cladding options? Insulation, installation, drainage and durability. EIFS Industry Members Association
Setting Straight a Cladding Conundrum: EIFS vs. Brick
From performance to overall environmental impact, EIFS continues to provide cladding qualities that competitors just can’t match. EIFS Industry members Association
Setting Straight a Cladding Conundrum: EIFS vs. Stucco
EIFS and stucco couldn’t be more different, starting from the most basic level to the final, completed building system. EIFS Industry Members Association
AGC: CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY RETURNING TO PRE-COVID-19 LEVELS IN SOME AREAS OF THE COUNTRY
Despite a recovery in construction activity, firms are still reporting a high rate of project cancellations and delays related to supply chain issues and labor shortages. Vincent Salandro, Builder June 2020
Air Leakage Testing
Q: What is air leakage testing on exterior walls?? Robert Grupe, Construction Dimensions Magazine, July 2020
Moroccan Tadelakt: History & Manufacturer
Tadelakt Is The Plaster Of Marrakech And In Recent Years Its Moroccan Aesthetic Has Fascinated The Western Design World. Patrick Webb, Walls and Ceilings Magazine June 2020
Continuous Insulation Cladding
It should be pondered that EIFS is not the natural “Go-To” preference to meet the new code requirements, as a continuous insulation exterior cladding, Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Albert Carillo, April 2020
2021 I-Codes: Stucco WRB Enhancements
The 2021 ICC family of codes (energy and building codes) will see significant changes made to the Portland Cement Stucco water-resistive barrier (WRB) provisions. SBC Magazine/ Jay Crandell P.E./ March 2020
New Report Reveals Dramatic Energy Efficiency Impacts
Gains in lighting and space heating efficiency have decreased energy intensity in commercial buildings, but demand in other areas is driving increased commercial energy use overall.
Smart Coatings Bring High-Performance Enclosures to the Next Level
What could be better than a high-performance coating for a building enclosure? How about a finish or coating system that delivers responsiveness and functionality for exterior surfaces over the life of the building? Building Enclosure/ Karine Galla/ March 2020
U.S. Hotel Construction pipeline continued to expand year-over-year despite COVID-19
Many open or temporarily closed hotels have already begun or are in the planning stages of renovating and repositioning their assets while occupancy is low or non-existent. Building Design and Construction/ Market Data/ April 30, 2020
Permeability and Performance in Water-Resistive Barriers
Identifying the Proper Choice for Applications, Building Enclosure, Jason Peace, November 2019
EIMA Makes Push for Construction Industry
Amid the Covid-19 pandemic the EIFS Industry Members Association has sent a letter to the Governors of Maryland and New York requesting their action to label businesses in the construction industry as “essential businesses.” EIMA Blog, March 31, 2020
Chart: 85% of Builders Expect Labor Problems to Persist in 2020
Cost and availability of labor topped the list of problems builders faced in 2019, and is expected to return to the number one spot in 2020. NAHB/ SBC Magazine, February 7, 2020
Lightweight Prefabricated Insulation Panels
StoPanel Delivers Improved Comfort with Minimal Disruption in Six-Story Office Building Restoration Project. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Michael Reese, 2-21-20.
Fibrous Plaster
This Type of Plaster Will Open Up Beautiful Design Opportunities While Supporting Contractors In Fulfilling A Fiduciary Responsibility Within Budget. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Patrick Webb, 2-21-20.
Stucco Applications on CI Systems
Stucco Opportunities Within the International Energy Conservation Code. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Chris Little, 2-21-20
Market Value of Air Barriers Beyond USD $15 Billion in 2020
With green building technology entering the mainstream and eco-home concepts spreading their roots faster than ever, the need for designing high-performance building envelopes is repeatedly highlighted. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Arijit Chakraborty, January 9, 2020
Nonresidential Building Spending to Grow Through 2020
Nonresidential construction spending on buildings is projected to grow by just 1.5 percent through 2020. Building Enclosure January 28, 2020
Sto Corp. Names New CEO
Sto Corp., the innovative world leader in full system facades, prefabrication, air barriers, coatings, and restoration solutions, announced today that Jose R. Berlingeri has been named President and Chief Executive Officer, Sto Americas. Building Enclosure, January 28, 2020
IIBEC Releases New Manual of Practice
The 2020 IIBEC Manual of Practice: Roofing, Waterproofing, and Exterior Wall Consulting and Quality Observation. Building Enclosure, February 3, 2020
Let’s Admit Building Science Is Complicated, Here’s Why
MNLPB provided this article in it’s newsletter several years ago…It might be time to revisit. Originally published by: Betzwood Associates, May 1, 2012. Re-posted by SBC Magazine December 2019
Video: Continuous Insulation Important for Net Zero
From affordable student housing to high-infill offices, a rapidly accelerating building trend is the proliferation of zero energy buildings. US Department of Energy, Better Building December 3, 2019. Posted by SBC Magazine
Take the Stucco Quiz
How much do you know about stucco? Test your knowledge with this quiz from Walls & Ceilings. Posted 12-4-19
EIFS Industry Releases Advocacy Guide
EIMA has developed a great educational package of information on (E)xterior (I)nsulation (F)inish (S)ystems. If you are new to EIFS, or simply want to brush up on the facts about the BEST Continuous Insulation system known, start here. EIMA Blog, September 2019
Using Polyiso Insulation as a WRB
How Polyiso Provides more Benefits than Just Continuous Insulation. Building Enclosure, Tom Robertson November 8, 2019
The Complicated Role of a Water-Resistive Barrier
Choose the right product and install it well, because if you’re not keeping water out, nothing else matters. Fine Home Building, Brian Pontolilo, September 2019
Mineral Wool EIFS System
Sto Corp. introduces StoTherm® ci Mineral, the only U.S. decorative and protective high-performance exterior wall system with the unique advantages of mineral wool. AWCI E-Media, September 2019
The Importance of NFPA 285
NFPA 285 and its impact on the modern wall. Walls and Ceiling Magazine, Mike Griffin and Jeffrey Quill. September 2, 2019
Stucco in Residential Construction: Errata 2019
This Errata brings Stucco in Residential Construction 2007 up to date with references in accordance with the current 2015 Minnesota Residential Code. To access go to our reference library and click on the “stucco” folder in the banner heading. Posted 8-19-19
Finding Harmony Between Waterproofing and Breathability
With as many ways as there are to construct a wall system, there are an equal number of ways to try to keep that wall dry. Building Enclosure, Bijan Mansouri. Posted 8-16-19
The International Code Council goes to court over free access to building codes
The International Code Council goes to court over free access to building codes. The Architect’s Newspaper, Bill Millard, July 9, 2019. Posted here on 7-30-19
Modern construction methods may not always be the best
I’ve been wanting to write this column for years. The topic has been a burr under my saddle, but I needed to base the column on proof, not speculation. Ask the Builder, The Spokesman-Review, Tim Carter, July 20, 2019. Posted 7-30-19
Stucco Manufacturers Association to Begin Online Training Program
Coming in Fall 2019, the SMA will offer online video training and certification to stucco installers. Take a glimpse at our introduction to the upcoming 7-part training modules:
Posted 7-30-19
Gypsum Association Announces the Redesign of Their Website
The Gypsum Association (GA) is pleased to announce the complete redesign of its website. Posted 7-12-19
Crack Mitigation Specification Plug-In
Crack resistance of portland cement plaster (stucco) can be improved by adding a cementitious mesh reinforced base coat over the brown coat. This document provides language that can be added to your stucco specification and can be found in our reference library by clicking on the “stucco” folder. Posted 7-12-19
Impact Resistant EIFS: Tough and Tested
New guide from the EIFS Industry Members Association extolling the benefits of EIFS and how simple modification can improve it’s impact resistance dramatically. Posted 6-22-19
Texas Governor Signs House Bill 2439
H.B. 2439 restricts local governments from mandating the use of only specific products, and it would allow the use of products and materials currently permitted in current building codes. Posted 6-21-19
Suggested Guide Spec: Portland Cement Plaster (Stucco) Over Continuous Insulation
CLICK ON THE “CONTINUOUS INSULATION OR STUCCO” FOLDER IN OUR REFERENCE LIBRARY TO ACCESS. Posted 6-21-19
The 2019 U.S. Stucco Market Report
NATIONAL OVERVIEW: The single-family home market is only one market for stucco cladding, but an important and dominant one. Posted 5-27-19
Amid Labor Shortage, EIFS Sees Growth in Use of Pre-Fabricated Panels
Pre-fabrication is Growing. Posted 5/27/19
Double Play
So does the air control layer go on the outside or the inside?… You’ve got to ask yourself one question: Do I feel lucky? Well, do you, punk?
Construction’s Seven Deadly Sins
These construction pitfalls lead to callbacks and long-term problems. Here’s how to avoid building defects on the jobsite.
BUILDER, Don Neff, February 2019. Posted April 2019.
Suggested Guide Specification for Portland Cement Plaster over Conventionally Framed and Sheathed Walls (2019 Update)
UPDATED FOR 2019!! Posted April 20. Go to our reference library and click on “stucco.” Title will show up in the publication titles displayed.
EIFS: When the Goal is Resiliency
An underestimated cladding system that’s begging for the limelight. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Scott Robinson, March 2019
ASTM C1063 – 2019
ASTM C1063 is the Standard Specification for Installation of Lathing and Furring to Receive Interior and Exterior Portland Cement-Based Plaster. Currently the Minnesota Building Code recognizes ASTM C1063 – 08, so this new version does not apply, it doesn’t however mean you shouldn’t be aware of changes.
Updated EIFS with Drainage Spec
Our model EIFS with Drainage Specification has been updated for 2019! Find it by going to our library and clicking on the “EIFS” tab.
Take the Stucco Off: Exterior Stucco and EIFS Claddings The problem with the “take it all off” mentality
Take it off, take it all off. These words are typically not heard on a construction site, but increasingly, we hear this phrase coming out of the mouths of our industry experts. Walls and Ceilings magazine, Albert Carillo 2-1-19
Avoiding Stucco Buckets
Changes of plane and intersections present moisture-management challenges. Journal of Light Construction, Tyler LeClear Vachta, John Koester, November 2018
Stucco Resource Guide – 4th Edition (2016)
Need details? This is the place to find them. Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau Publication
Just for Kicks
“If you aren’t expecting it, Allianz Field looks like an alien mother ship strategically landed at an area known as ‘Midway’ between Minneapolis and St. Paul.” – Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Steve Pedracine, MN Lath & Plaster Bureau, October 2018
Fireproof homes could be the answer to massive wildfires across the West
If it’s possible to build a fireproof house, Robert Balzebre is convinced his stunning three-story personal sanctuary perched in the Hollywood Hills would qualify. USA Today, Chris Woodyard, August 2018
Are We Sealing The Right Walls In Buildings?
“Everyone is running around sealing the outside of buildings and the term “air barrier” has gone from obscurity to buzz word in less than a decade. But if you look at the physics we are sealing the wrong walls…” Building Science Corp., Joe Lstiburek, December 18, 2018
Wood-Based Sheathing for Stucco Cladding
“Stucco doesn’t crack; breaking is a common misconception about a well-used coating.” – Walls and Ceilings Magazine, January 6, 2019
AC Hotel by Marriott at Westshore Tampa
“Westshore Tampa is an ever-growing business district which includes Tampa International Airport”… EIMA Blog, December 27, 2018
How to Specify: Stucco
“Stucco can take any color and adapt to any shape, from flat boxes to doubly curved fantasias” – Architizer, December 2018
Capitol Improvements
Daunting challenges necessitate a mix of old and new plastering methods to bring back “The Star of the North”
DEFS Spec
Direct (applied) Exterior Finish System. Go to the Reference Library and look under “Specialty.”
Punched Openings
Windows and doors are “holes” in the “sheet-like walls” of buildings. Hence the term “punched openings”.
New “Guide to EIFS with Drainage Detailing”
EIFS Industry Members Association has published a new “Guide to EIFS with Drainage Detailing” .
2018 AWCI’s Excellence in Construction Quality Award
Mulcahy Nickolaus receives the AWCI Excellence in Construction Quality Award for their plaster repair work on the Minnesota State Capitol.
Joints and Corners and Penetrations
The battle to control water entry is won at building joints and corners.
Steven Pedracine wins Mike Sweeney Press Award
Steven Pedracine receives award from EIFS Industry Members Association.
Plaster and the California Missions
The California Missions are not only state history made corporeal, but also one of the major reasons stucco is so common in the Southwest.