A L A BAMA CO NCR E TE I NDUSTRIES ASSOC IATION M AGAZ IN E | FA L L 2017
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
23
16
ConcreteWorks is a publication of the Alabama Concrete Industries Association and features articles and photographs pertaining to product applications, educational opportunities, as well as innovative construction techniques impacting the industry. Please email rlindsay@alconcrete.org with any comments regarding featured articles in ConcreteWorks or to suggest a story idea for a future edition.
Rebecca Lindsay, Art Director & Editor John Sorrell, Editor
7
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
WWW.ALCONCRETE.ORG WWW.MYSAFEROOM.ORG
2
2017 Truck Rodeo ACIA’s annual Truck Driver Championship, otherwise known as the Truck Rodeo, was held in April and sponsored by Thompson Tractor Company. Forty-three drivers participated this year, and it was another successful event. Enjoy the photos!
7
The Heat is On Build with Strength is the authoritative voice of the concrete industry in low to mid-rise construction across the country, and has concentrated its focus this summer on how concrete performs in intense temperatures, including the alarming number of multi-family fires that have burned across the U.S. Read how this initiative continues to fight fires with facts.
11
OOOOOOOWWWWWAAAAAA!
The Poarch Band of Creek
Indians’ OWA development in Foley opened late-July, and is already a booming tourist attraction. This brand new amusement park and hotel relied heavily on concrete, and thousands of people have already visited. (On the Cover )
16
Where Eagles Soar Rick Wendling was just 19-years-old when he started in the world of architecture, and has worked his way up for the last few decades. From educational institutions to storefronts, his portfolio and use of concrete is quite impressive.
23 Future Past
The Powell Avenue Steam Plant was built in 1895, and has
become a historic destination in the heart of 21st Century Birmingham. Read about its history, and recent move to redevelop the city’s celebrated central core.
26 Technical Review
The 2015 IBC Will Impact Your Masonry Business.
Here’s Why…
31
2017 Spring Calendar
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
2 0 1 7 T R U C K R O D E O On Saturday, April 8th, 43 drivers from across
the
Southeast
gathered
at
Thompson Tractor Company to compete in the 2017 Truck Driver Championship, held each year to thank these men and women for all the hard work they do for our industry. Thank you to Thompson for hosting once again! It was a great event enjoyed by the drivers and their family and friends.
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS! Bayou Concrete Beck Industries McNeilus Thompson Tractor Truckworx
FALL 2017 3
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
Individual Winners Written Test – Jeremy Johnson – Ready Mix USA | Front Stop – Ashley Gassaway – Ready Mix USA | Tightest Turn – David Meeks – Ready Mix USA | Rear Stop – Addison Nelson – Bama Concrete | Parallel Park – Buddy Batson – Sherman Industries
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
Congratulation to our winners! A complete photo gallery can be found on our Facebook page! Overall 1st Place – Jeff Hall – Shelby Concrete 2nd Place – Tony Peoples – Sherman Industries | 3rd Place – Gaylon Lovelace – Ready Mix USA | 4th Place – Issac Johnson – Gulf States Ready Mix | 5th Place – Anthony Farler – Shelby Concrete *Team Competition – Shelby Concrete
Front End Loader Competition 1st Place – Rob Charsha – Sherman Industries | 2nd Place – Johnny Curtis – Kirkpatrick Concrete | 3rd Place – Issac Johnson – Gulf States Ready Mix | 4th Place – David Meeks – Ready Mix USA
FALL 2017 5
TOPIC SPOTLIGHT
the
heat is on
TOPIC SPOTLIGHT
o
n June 28th, another
“Build With Strength continues to
these seven arguments are still
massive fire destroyed
stay active on this front--fighting fires
valid, as there's a perpetual myth
a
completed
with facts,” says Brett Ruffing, senior
about the benefits of lightweight
lightweight wood-framed multi-family
nearly
director of communications and
combustible construction:
building just outside Boston. Tenants
public affairs, NRMCA. “The coalition
were set to move in on July 15th. This
continues to monitor these fires, and
Concrete does NOT burn during
blaze marked the third major regional
updates the America is Burning map.
construction.
fire featuring lightweight, combustible
Build With Strength will also continue
at
construction in the region in June- the
to provide press releases after such
while
others occurring in Lowell, MA, and
events, and if necessary become
temperatures over 1000 degrees.
Lawrence, MA. These fires are on top
active in these regions.”
of the numerous other fires that have occurred around the country.
375
concrete
Wood-framed As these events continue to occur,
Wood
degrees can
combusts Fahrenheit, withstand
structures
are
susceptible to fire even after fire
FALL 2017 7
TOPIC SPOTLIGHT
safety measures are installed per code. There
and allows a structure to be constructed
and has been commissioned to evaluate a
are plenty of examples of occupied structures
faster and more efficiently.
realistic side-by-side comparison of the two
with all passive and active fire suppression measures in place that have burned.
wall assembly types in one single study. These buildings were built to code. Building codes are the minimum requirements to
The
Wood-framed construction is not cheaper
legally build a structure. Codes focus on life-
revealing:
to build in terms of first costs. Concrete
safety, not structural integrity and occupant
structures,
possessions. We can build better, above
-The tested ICF wall assembly provided
code, at no extra cost.
58% better effective R-value than the tested
competitive,
especially if
not
ICFs, lower,
are on
cost
upfront
construction costs. Then, when you take into account lifecycle costs for maintenance
ummer
officially
arrived
were
overwhelmingly
on
s
structures are far less expensive.
dog days. While resiliency and fire safety
property, and finally a return-on-investment
results
2" x 6" wall assembly.
if the building is to be sold, concrete
and operations, including insuring the
test
June 21st, and air-conditioning
-The tested ICF wall assembly generated
continues to run full-throttle
up to 60% energy savings compared to the
even as we are nearing the end of these
tested 2" x 6" wall assembly.
continue to be a dominant focus this month
-The measurable contributions of the ICF
Have rents gone down? Local markets
for Build With Strength, the authoritative
wall assembly’s thermal mass and the
dictate rent rates, not material costs.
voice of the concrete industry in low- to
interior and exterior layers of continuous
Rents
mid-rise construction across the United
insulation.
are
determined
based
upon
nearby properties with similar amenities,
States,
highlighting
energy
efficiency
numbers of rooms, square footage, etc. A
during the summer months will also be a
For consumers, this study proves invaluable
developer can decide to charge a certain
priority. The entire country has dealt with
when considering the two wall assemblies
amount, but if people in that community
extreme heat waves, like every summer,
for homes. Considering two traditional
aren't willing to pay it, then the property
and concrete buildings provide the best
homes, each with 2,000 sq.ft. of wall
will go unoccupied.
thermal comfort during times of intense
area, according to the ICFMA, "when
temperature.
incorporating the average kWH value for all
Some have argued that concrete just
North America, the study indicates that in
costs too much to build, to the point that
Recently, the Insulating Concrete Forms
many climate zones that during the most
they couldn't build affordably with it--
Manufacturers
(ICFMA)
extreme cold conditions an ICF wall can
again this is INCORRECT. If this is posited
commissioned research to conduct a series
save between $140 and $190 per month
to you, ask the following question: "How
of accredited whole wall thermal studies.
in equivalent electrical consumption when
much do structural materials cost in the
The first installment compared a traditional
compared to a traditionally constructed
overall construction cost?" Also, "How
2" x 6" insulated wood frame cavity wall
wood frame wall." This can then be
do material costs get calculated into
to a 6" core ICF wall. The study confirmed
correlated to extreme heat as well. ICF walls
the market rent rate?" This argument is
the superior energy-efficiency performance
will save energy even in the extreme heat of
more about profit to the developer than
and an overall better R-value of the ICF wall
the summer.
increased rent rates.
assembly.
Association
“As more and more extreme weather events Wood is not quicker to build than concrete,
The concrete and cement industries have
occur, resiliency and energy-efficiency of
especially ICFs. ICFs can be constructed
performed many studies over the years
America's building stock will be instrumental
through any season, even the dead of winter.
that were either based on limited field
to limiting man's contributions to global
ICFs also offer a quicker build because they
comparisons or thermographic computer
warming and to limiting the negative affects
include the wall system in one--which wood
modeling. This is the first study conducted
these events bring,” says John Loyer, vice
frame cannot. Having six wall elements in
by a SCC and ISO Accredited, and
president of state and local governmental
one product eliminates costly building steps
internationally recognized, testing facility
affairs, NRMCA. “Concrete building systems,
TOPIC SPOTLIGHT
concrete building systems will be vital
in reducing energy consumption and increasing resiliency
FALL 2017 9
TOPIC SPOTLIGHT
Fires of combustible materials are reducing apartment buildings to ashes and putting lives at risk. The recent spate of fires in low- and mid-rise structures throughout the country is raising questions and concerns about the safety of wood-built buildings. It’s clear that codes and inspections are failing to keep residents and communities safe. It’s time for builders, contractors, developers, first responders and residents to come together to create new solutions that embrace non-combustible materials like steel and concrete.
NORTHAMPTON, MA | 8.8.16
SANDY RIVER PLANTATION, ME | 2.7.17
LYNNWOOD, WA | 1.25.17 DETROIT, MI | 3.8.17
LAURENS, NY | 1.19.17
WATERBURY, CT | 5.17.17 & 6.16.17
BOTHELL, WA | 7.22.16 PORTLAND, OR | 8.8.13 MANISTEE, MI | 4.17.17
LOWELL, MA | 6.5.17
BUFFALO, NY | 6.19.17
CAMBRIDGE, MA | 12.4.16
LAWRENCE, MA | 6.11.17
EDGEWATER, NJ | 1.21.15
MADISON, WI | 8.4.14 LAS VEGAS, NV | 3.27.17
BIDDEFORD, ME | 4.17.17
OCEAN GROVE, NJ | 3.3.17
MAPLEWOOD, NJ | 2.4.17
MIDVALE, UT | 7.7.17 CONSHOHOCKEN, PA | 8.16
BRANSON, MO | 12.4.16 CINCINNATI, OH | 8.22.15
LOS ANGELES, CA | 6.12.17
KANE, PA | 1.3.17 UPPER CHICHESTER, PA | 4.17.17
LOS ANGELES, CA | 12.8.14 BROKEN ARROW, OK | 1.20.16 OAKLAND, CA | 3.27.17
BALTIMORE, MD | 1.12.17
OAKLAND, CA | 12.3.16
LANHAM, MD | 4.1.14 & 1.1.17
OAKLAND, CA | 7.7.17
ROCKVILLE, MD | 4.1.14
DALLAS, TX | 4.4.17
MESA, AZ | 8.2.16 GILBERT, AZ | 4.23.16
COLLEGE PARK, MD | 4.24.17 PHOENIX, AZ | 3.18.17
UNIONPORT, NY | 6.22.17
SILVER SPRING, MD | 8.19.16 ARLINGTON, VA | 5.8.17
ANCHORAGE, AK | 2.16.17
ST PETERSBURG, FL | 5.12.17
LAS COLINAS, TX | 2.6.16 HOLLYGROVE, LA | 4.12.17
HOUSTON, TX | 3.26.17
OVERLAND PARK, KS | 3.20.17
TAMPA, FL | 4.28.17 CHATTANOOGA, TN | 4.13.15
NORFOLK, VA | 2.13.16 RALEIGH, NC | 3.16.17 EVANS, GA | 6.2.15
To learn more, please contact Kevin Lawlor of Build with Strength at klawlor@buildwithstrength.com or 202-253-6402 or visit BuildwithStrength.com.
like ICFs, will be vital in reducing energy
to invest upfront on initial construction, so
consumption and increasing resiliency.”
that it will pay for itself over the building's lifetime, incorporating anticipated damage
Utilizing the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub
due to disasters. This shows that using
research on buildings, Build With Strength
resilient
will continue to promote, engage developers
durable materials like concrete, is an
and decision makers and continue to
important step in mitigating the effects of
advocate with policymakers for changes in
disasters before they occur.
codes and ordinances for more durable and resilient buildings. In conjunction with energy efficiency during the extreme heat, Build With Strength will continue to promote resiliency as well, utilizing the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub's research on resilience and the Break Even Mitigation Percent (BEMP) Modelto help calculate the expected loss ratio due to hazard damage. This model allows designers to demonstrate the right amount
construction
techniques,
with
F E AT U R E
OOOOOOO WWWWW AAAAAA! Located along the gulf coast in southwest
and relied heavily on concrete in both the
with the flavor of the themed area of the
Alabama, Baldwin County has always been
construction of the park itself and in the
entire OWA park development. The hotel is
a popular tourist destination, and now with
design of Marriott’s Towneplace Suites.
situated in the Warehouse District, therefore
the addition of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians’ OWA development in Foley, the
WHERE TO STAY
area’s tourism industry will continue to flourish in a big way.
the exterior façade exhibits a certain look, from the brick selected to opening sizes, to exposed structures.
Goodwyn Mills & Cawood was selected to design the 150-room hotel, and the owner
The main public space was designed to
The new 14-acre amusement park and
expressed his desire to capture a certain
capture the warehouse feeling as well, and
entertainment complex opened in late July,
‘feeling’ for the building that was in keeping
includes some exposed concrete columns,
FALL 2017 11
F E AT U R E
ABOUT OWA OWA is a joint venture with the City of Foley and its Foley Sports Complex. In 2012, the City approached the Poarch Band of Creek Indians about a partnership to bring an entertainment destination venue to Baldwin County. The Tribe is the sole owner and developer of what is now known as OWA. The City of Foley retains ownership of the sports complex. In conjunction with the integration of the sports fields and event center planned by the City of Foley, the Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority’s (CIEDA) concept for the project is to create a family-friendly retail, dining and
entertainment
individuals of all ages.
destination
for
F E AT U R E
concrete ceilings and exposed ductwork. The interior furnishings even take on that character in the selected finish textures and color palette, including metals and woods in coordination with the exposed concrete. “After
considering
several
structural
schemes, a concrete system was selected with concrete columns, load bearing walls, beams and one way slabs,” explains Carrie Day, architect with Goodwyn Mills & Cawood. “This system was determined to be the most efficient considering cost, construction
schedule
and
contractor
familiarity. The finish also worked well with our themed focus for the building.” The concrete structural system allowed the
contractor
to
begin
construction
almost immediately and meet the project’s fast-track schedule.
The concrete walls
around the stairs and elevators provided the building’s lateral resisting system.
In
FALL 2017 13
F E AT U R E
addition, the 6” concrete walls between
“big water” in the Creek Indian language.
guestrooms met the owner’s stringent
The STOA team provided master planning
acoustic requirements.
and architectural design for 154,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment
“The entire sequence through the public
space, 14-acre lake, 1.5-acre island, and
space is exciting, but I think the exterior look
14-acre amusement park.
that we ended up with provides the unique look of a warehouse that blends in a few
The entire OWA build-out represents a 520-
modern components,” says Day.
acre resort and a $500 million investment by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians,
WHAT TO DO
according to information from OWA. The first two phases of the project represent a
In late 2015 STOA Architects out of
$240 million investment, with total buildout
Pensacola began designing a new family-
scheduled over the next five years.
friendly entertainment destination for the city of Foley and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Fast forward to late 2016, and OWA was officially born. The amusement park consists of 21 rides, and a variety of
shopping
and
dining
experiences
surrounding a picturesque lake. The lake is what inspired the name OWA, which means
F E AT U R E
THRILL RIDES 1 - Rollin' Thunder 2 - Freedom Flyer 3 - Air Racer 4 - Alabama Wham'a 5 - Crazy Mouse 6 - Twister 7 - Wave Rider
KIDDIE RIDES 8 - Swingin' Fun 9 - Leap Frog 10 - Gully Washer 11 - Flying Aces 12 - Happy Haulers 13 - Zip Zap Race
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RIDES 14 - Southern Express 15 - Flying Tigers 16 - Flying Carousel 17 - AeroZoom 18 - Rockin' Raft 19 - Tea Time 20 - Sky Balloons 21 - Flutter By
PROPERTY FACILITIES & INFORMATION 22 - Parkside Gift Shop 23 - Veranda Restaurant 24 - Shady Arbor Restaurant 25 - Games 26 - Strollers
FOOD CARTS 27 - Hot Dog Cart 28 - Ice Cream Cart 29 - Snack Cart 30 - Dippin' Dots Cart 31 - Popcorn Cart 32 - Shaved Ice Cart 33 - Taco Cart
FALL 2017 15
ARCHITECT SPOTLIGHT
Eagles
WHERE SOAR Rick Wendling was a 19-year-old newlywed
Narrows, Brown and Parsons, Barganier
with a child on the way when he started
Mckee and Sims, Sherlock Smith and
as an errand boy for Blondheim, Williams
Adams and finally Tiller Butner and Rosa.
and Chancey. He knew he had a little bit of natural talent when he realized at a young
“Sam Butner became my mentor and there
age that he was quite good at the weekly
has not been a better man to mimic,” he
drawing contest in the TV Guide, so his
says. “I was fortunate to be eligible to enroll
journey into architecture was somewhat
in the IDP program under the now defunct
natural.
Grandfather Clause. This was offered to those without college if you already had at
“Pat Williams was the first example of what
least 10 years’ experience working with an
and how an architect should be,” says Rick.
architect.”
“He was a wonderful role model, and while I worked for him I slowly started filling in the
Rick completed the IDP program as also
dots of finish schedules then started taking
required of architectural graduates and, like
on more and more drafting chores.”
them, was allowed to start sitting for the exam. After 10 years of studying at night, he
Eventually, he made the rounds with
finally passed.
ARCHITECT SPOTLIGHT
FALL 2017 17
ARCHITECT SPOTLIGHT
" I do
a lot of retail, and this type of
BUILDING
lends itself to load bearing
CMU " WALLS.
ARCHITECT SPOTLIGHT
Get to Know Rick What's the last book you read? “Killing of the Rising Sun” by Bill O’Reilly. If you’ve seen the movie “Hacksaw Ridge”, which by the way is one of the best movies I’ve seen in a very long time, the book is the actual events of this battle and the other campaigns leading up to the bombing of Hiroshima. What is an interesting fact that most people don't know about you? I’m a self-taught piano player – I’m sure very disputable amongst real pianist. I also have a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Where did you grow up? Originally from Ohio, but lived in Montgomery most of my life. Attended Capital Heights, Goodwyn and Lee High School. “I truly admire the architects who have
University has made those campus projects
Are any other members of your
college degrees, and will readily admit there
some of his favorites. He’s designed various
family architects? No architects
are many times I do not feel worthy to be
types of buildings, from education buildings
but my father was a steel detailer.
considered an equal,” states Rick.
– Jones Law School addition, to athletic
Again back in the pencil days, he
buildings – Football Stadium and Field
would bring a set of drawings home
An avid golfer, he tries to play as much
Houses, Men and Women Residence Halls
he was working on and would let
as possible, and finds that the beautiful
and even a Dinner Theatre.
his very young apprentice color in
landscaping of a well-maintained course
the dots that represented the bolt
can be a great stress reliever, which helps
“The Dinner Theatre was one of my top
to easily forget some of those pending
favorites because it was so different than
deadlines.
anything I’d ever done,” Rick says. “It has
What is the one tool you can't live
an 8’ deep orchestra pit in front of the stage,
without? Without a doubt a roll of
and I remember opening night, Phantom of
sketch paper!
Rick’s 11 year relationship with Faulkner
locations.
FALL 2017 19
ARCHITECT SPOTLIGHT
the Opera, and sitting there at the front table
visit the Sears Tower every year. But without
watching those actors dancing around on
this foundation, there would be no tower to
the edge of that pit I thought I was going to
visit.
have a heart attack. The next day I went to the president of Faulkner and told him ‘We
Rick states that the use of concrete in his
HAVE to order a safety net’!! And we did,
own projects is largely due to its durability,
and the many shows I attended afterwards
but also because its aesthetically appealing.
were less stressful.” “There are so many different ways to use Or course, Rick has some favorite pieces of
concrete these days, and I do a lot of retail,
architecture that use concrete, one being
and this type of building lends itself to load
the Sears Tower in Chicago. He explains
bearing CMU walls, split-face block facades
that the construction above ground is not
and bases,” he says. “The developers like
concrete but rather bundles of steel tubes.
it because there is very little maintenance
However, the structure would not have held
required.”
the title of the world’s tallest building for 25 years (until 2014) without a solid foundation.
Now, 45 years later and a merger of Infinity
The massive cement structure, designed by
Architecture with Goodwyn Mills & Cawood,
Fazlur Rahman Kahn of Skidmore, Owings
Rick finds himself in awe that next year
& Merrill, is 100 feet deep. In addition, the
he will be president of the Montgomery
foundation is surrounded by 200 circular
Chapter AIA.
caissons, which are huge cement-filled cylinders bored an additional 100 feet
“My career has certainly gone full circle,”
below and set in bedrock. These caissons
he says. “It’s been quite a ride and I do not
add stability to the building no matter what
regret one second of it.”
happens above ground. This foundation is completely invisible to the thousands who
ARCHITECT SPOTLIGHT
certainly gone
" My Career
has
FULL CIRCLE...
i do not regret one
SECEOND of it. "
FALL 2017 21
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
P FUTURE
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
USING TECHNOLOGIES OF THE FUTURE TO PROTECT THE PAST
PAST
Lightweight
aggregate
from
Trinity
Lightweight is being used to protect and preserve the north wall of a Birmingham, Alabama landmark. The Powell Avenue Steam Plant, built in 1895, is being redeveloped by Alabama Power to become a historic destination in the heart of 21st century Birmingham. Forged in a fire of iron and steel, Birmingham, Alabama grew to become the industrial center of the South. The city developed so rapidly some people called it
FALL 2017 23
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
O T E V O M K A N I S ’ H T E E R R E TH LOP AND TORIC E S I V E H D S ’ RE Y T I E C R O E TH CENTRAL C
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
“The Magic City”. Now, 145 years later,
Hoar Construction, based in Birmingham,
plant,
Birmingham is known worldwide for its
is a national general contractor with
lightweight material make it ideal for such
medical research facilities, banking
offices in Orlando, Nashville, Houston and
a sensitive project. Lightweight aggregate
and high tech manufacturing.
Washington, D.C. One key component of
can reduce the density of such compacted
their restoration work targets the north side
geotechnical fills by up to one-half. This
of the 120-year old building.
advantage, coupled with its predictable high
Today, there’s a move to redevelop and rethink the city’s historic central
the
unique
properties
of
the
internal friction angle, can also significantly
core. Signs of the rebirth can be found
“One of the challenges we have is how
all across the city. New properties are
do we water proof the back wall on the
going up, while old landmarks are
north side of the building,” says McKinnon.
Many of the brick walls around the perimeter
being refreshed for another century of
“In the 1930’s, the railroad was elevated
of the former steam plant are up to 18-inches
service.
through downtown Birmingham so that the
thick. “At the end of the day, lightweight
north side of the building was backfilled up
aggregate has reduced the stresses on
One of those historic properties literally
against like a basement would be. When we
that wall by about a half so it should last for
helped power the city’s rapid growth.
realized we needed to excavate back there
another 100 years,” McKinnon says.
The Powell Avenue Steam Plant was
to install the water proofing we realized
built to supply electricity to the young
there were probably some stresses on the
Hoar Construction continues to prepare the
city’s bustling downtown district and
wall we could help alleviate.”
old landmark for its new future: a unique
keep a busy streetcar system on track.
reduce lateral forces.
historic destination in the heart of the 21st options,
century Birmingham. “I think the idea is to
Clayton McKinnon, Project Manager
After
geotechnical engineers chose lightweight
feature the historic look of the building,”
for
Hoar
Construction,
says
the
considering
several
aggregate from Trinity to protect the
says McKinnon. “All of the structure and the
Alabama Power facility was built
timeworn,
“The
brick and all the steel; Birmingham was an
in 1895. “It was the original power
geotechnical
Bhate
industrial town so they want to maintain that
plant for downtown Birmingham,”
Geosciences as well as LBYD Civil and
he notes. “We started down here
Structural Engineers presented lightweight
decommissioning the plant once in
as one of the options, so we investigated to
Follow
closed in 2013. A lot of our work has
see what the properties were and if it was
powellsteamplant.com.
focused on a structural restoration,
going to work for us and it sounded like a
learn more about lightweight aggregate
getting the building rehabbed, and
good option,” says McKinnon.
for
but
well-built engineers
wall. at
doing a lot of demolition to get the space usable for future use.”
look for sure.” the
building’s
geotechnical
progress You
can
applications
at also at
trinitylightweight.com Manufactured at the Livingston, Alabama
FALL 2017 25
TECHNICAL REVIEW
The 2015 IBC Will Impact Your Masonry Business Building codes are a strange combination of perceived confliction. In one respect they
are
constantly
changing,
forcing
the collective construction industry to re-educate themselves under the new provisions every three years. This process is expensive and frustrating, leading to descriptors such as ‘change for change sake’. Yet they are concurrently perceived as being slow to react and resistant to the adoption of new technologies – and when
those
‘significant’
changes
are
implemented, they are generally met with near hostility as designers, contractors, and owners alike struggle to understand why ‘the way things were’ no longer work. I’m generally not a fan of change. Change implies that something is now different; an action not beholden to ‘making a difference’. I am, however, a fan of innovation and evolution…and the potential for constructive changes embodied therein. Moreover, I acutely appreciate just how directly innovation (and by association, industry health) can be supported – and stifled – by building codes. A topic I covered in detail in the May, 2016 edition of Masonry Magazine by outlining my 5 rules of building codes: Rule 1: No one knows everything in the building code – but you should understand your core area of responsibility.
TECHNICAL REVIEW
Rule 2: Building codes and standards are complicated, but not all encompassing.
Net area compressive strength of concrete masonry, psi (MPa)
Rule 3: Building codes define minimum…
Net area compressive strength of concrete masonry units, psi (MPa) Type M or S mortar
Type N mortar
and concurrently maximum…requirements. Rule 4: Building codes are biased. Rule 5: Building codes don’t just impact your markets; they define your market’s existence.
1,700 (11.72)
...
1,900 (13.10)
1,900 (13.10)
1,900 (13.10)
2,350 (14.82)
2,000 (13.79)
2,000 (13.79)
2,650 (18.27)
2,250 (15.51)
2,600 (17.93)
3,400 (23.44)
2,500 (17.24)
3,250 (22.41)
4,350 (28.96)
2,750 (18.96)
3,900 (26.89)
...
3,000 (20.69)
4,500 (31.03
...
1
The May 2016 article was a broad reflection
For units of less than 4 in. (102 mm) nominal height, use 85 percent of the values listed
Table 1 – TMS 602 Unit Strength/Assembly Strength Correlation Table for Concrete Masonry
of the impact and importance of building codes. The following focuses much more specifically on tangible changes given that
concrete masonry design. (Those interested
not only in savings for reinforcement
many states and jurisdictions around the
in a detailed review of these revisions can
and grout, but increases in productivity,
U.S. have, or are in the process of adopting
read more in TMS Responds, Volume 10,
reduced congestion, shorter lap splice
and implementing the 2015 edition of the
Number 1 and Volume 11, Number 1.)
lengths, and so on.
International Building Code (IBC). So yes, things are changing…in a meaningful,
The simplest means of illustrating the impact
positive direction. Here’s several reasons
of the unit strength table recalibration –
wasn’t adopted until the 2015 IBC
to embrace these changes whether you
coupled with the numerous other updates
(e.g.,
produce concrete masonry, design with
and revisions reflected in the design
acknowledging that while this was a
concrete
provisions of TMS 402 – is shown in Table
significant change, there were many
2. These results summarize the vertical
other revisions reflected in the 2012
reinforcement requirements for an 18 foot
and 2015 IBC that contribute to the
tall, 8 inch CMU wall designed to carry a
design efficiency of concrete masonry
25 lb/ft2 (allowable) and 40 lb/ft2 (strength)
construction.
masonry,
or
install
concrete
masonry.
Structural Efficiency
•
The recalibrated unit strength table the
2013
TMS
402/602);
Much has been reported about the new unit
wind pressure and a 3,000 lb/ft applied
strength table (Table 1) incorporated into the
axial dead load using the strength design
While the above analysis focuses on
2013 edition of TMS 602. No question this
provisions of TMS 402.
increasing the spacing of the reinforcement,
was a huge change; essentially increasing
an alternative approve can focus on
the baseline concrete masonry compressive
Certainly each project has its own unique
decreasing the nominal thickness of the
strength by 33% over historical values.
set of design conditions that could increase
assembly where product conditions warrant.
or decrease reinforcement spacing from
For example, concrete masonry assemblies
This change alone would increase the
that shown in Table 2. Nevertheless, there
that have historically been 12 in. CMU
design efficiency of many concrete masonry
are a couple key takeaways from this simple
may now be 10 in. (or possibly 8 in.) while
structures. Despite the significance of this
example:
maintaining similar reinforcement spacing
change, it is only one of many revisions incorporated into TMS 402/602, Building
required by past codes. This option may •
The amount of reinforcement required
be more beneficial in regions where solid
Code Requirements and Specification for
to
is
grouting/closely spaced reinforcement is a
Masonry Structures, over the past several
decreasing; sometimes moderately,
common practice. Again, these examples
years that directly influences the efficiency of
sometimes significantly. This translates
illustrate possible scenarios as opposed to
safely
resist
design
loads
FALL 2017 27
TECHNICAL REVIEW
Code Edition1
Reinforcement Size
Reinforcement Spacing
2009 IBC2
No. 5
40 inches
2012 IBC2
No. 5
48 inches
2015 IBC3
No. 5
56 inches
1
believe that continuous insulation is a requirement for complying with current energy codes. It is not. •
Internally as an industry evolving to
The 2009, 2012, and 2015 editions of the IBC adopt the 2008, 2011, and 2013 editions of TMS 402/602, respectively. 2f’m = 1,500 psi 3f’m = 2,000 psi
meet these market changes and
Table 2 – Design Impact of TMS 402/602 Revisions
worked in the 1990s may not work
owner expectations. Solutions that today. This isn’t a shortcoming of
given rules, but certainly a reflection of the
Maintaining
of
masonry as a construction material,
degree to which cost, material, and time
loadbearing masonry construction rests
rather an opportunity for the industry to
savings can be realized.
largely on the ability of single wythe
engage with designers and implement
construction to comply with current energy
masonry solutions.
Thermal Efficiency
the
economic
viability
codes – regardless of climate zone. These solutions do exist. If masonry projects
Structural Bed Joint Reinforcement
The thermal design of concrete masonry
in Fairbanks, Alaska can come up with
assemblies has followed a simple model
solutions to comply with current energy
for several decades: heat flows through the
codes using off-the-shelf concrete masonry
Bed joint reinforcement has been an integral
webs and grouted cells of the assembly
technologies, I‘m confident more southern
part of concrete masonry construction
(Figure 1). Therefore, reducing the number
locations can as well.
for decades, whether for tying wythes of
of grouted cells (structural efficiency) and reducing the number or size of the webs,
composite masonry assemblies together, as Anecdotally, one of the largest challenges
part of a masonry veneer, or simply for crack
R-value increases of 30%, 80%, or even 200% can be easily achieved with single wythe construction; depending on the insulation type and location, unit density, and grout spacing. Increasing the thermal efficiency of CMU construction was the primary driver behind the revisions to ASTM C90 implemented in 2011 that permit alternative CMU configurations such as single or double
Figure 1 – Heat Flow Across CMU
open-ended units, thinner webs, and reduced height webs. Consider the interior of a concrete masonry assembly constructed
I see in the market related to energy code
control. Whether bed joint reinforcement
using three web units (Figure 2) versus the
compliance isn’t implementing solutions
can replace structural rebar, however, has
same assembly constructed using two
to comply with energy codes, rather, our
remained a point of debate within code
web concrete masonry units (Figure 3).
primary challenges include:
circles. Following much research and
Not only as the number of thermal bridges (webs) reduced considerably, but the cells
debate, this question has been (partially) •
Educating designers and decision
answered – yes, bed joint reinforcement
of the two web units greatly facilitate the
makers on the available masonry
can be used as structural reinforcement
placement of grout or foam insulation.
technologies that facilitate energy
(with conditions).
code compliance. Unfortunately, many
TECHNICAL REVIEW
The importance of this change draws from
Table 2, the CMU assembly designed to the
2022…and subsequently adopted into the
a separate design criteria for reinforced
2015 IBC required No. 5 bars at 56 inches.
2024 IBC. This affords considerable time
masonry
that
If 9 gage bed joint reinforcement was also
to acclimate to the changes of the 2015
the effective spacing of reinforcement
incorporated into this assembly at 16
IBC; and lots of time to put the next wave
cannot exceed 6 times the nominal wall
inches on center, the spacing of the vertical
of changes, tools, and resources in place to
thickness, nor 72 inches. This requirement
reinforcement increases to 96 inches.
continue the momentum. Stay tuned for the
is why, for example, the spacing of vertical
By comparison back to the 2009 IBC,
next evolution.
reinforcement in an 8 inch wall is rarely
the spacing of the vertical reinforcement
spaced further apart than 48 inches (6 x 8 =
has more than doubled by simply taking
Jason Thompson is Vice President of
48 inches). The reason for this requirement
advantage of the bed joint reinforcement as
Engineering
construction:
specifically
at
the
National
Concrete
Masonry Association (NCMA) and Chair of the Masonry Alliance for Codes and Standards (MACS) whose mission is to advance and protect the masonry industry within the building codes arena. Jason can be reached at jthompson@ncma.org.
Figure 2 – Internal Cut-Away of Three-Web CMU Assembly
Figure 3 – Internal Cut-Away of Two-Web CMU Assembly
is to prevent vertical reinforcement from
a structural component of the assembly.
being spaced too far apart, effectively
Summary
creating sections of unreinforced masonry between reinforced sections.
Fully realized, the efficiencies afforded by By allowing bed joint reinforcement to be
the 2015 edition of the IBC can significantly
part of ‘primary’ reinforcement used to resist
reduce the cost, increase productivity,
Code Edition1
Reinforcement Size
Reinforcement Spacing
2009 IBC
2
No. 5
40 inches
2015 IBC
3
No. 5
96 inches
1 2
Refer to Table 2 for design assumptions.
Incorporating 9 gage bed joint reinforcement at 16 inches. Table 3 – Design Impact of TMS 402/602 Revisions1
design loads, the vertical reinforcement can
enhance thermal performance, and improve
be spaced much further apart as the load is
the viability of concrete masonry construction
shared between the bed joint reinforcement
across multiple markets. The next edition of
and the vertical rebar. Referring back to
the TMS 402/602 won’t be published until
FALL 2017 29
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ACI Field Testing - B'ham/Ready Mix USA Day of Concrete Knowledge - Mobile Day of Concrete Knowledge - B'ham Day of Concrete Knowledge - Huntsville
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ACI Field Testing - Montgomery ACI Field Testing - Mobile Butch Wyatt Concrete Cup - Inverness Country Club
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ACI Field Testing - B'ham ACI Field Testing - Montgomery
FALL 2017 31
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A Day Of
CONCRETE knowledge A Day of Concrete Knowledge is designed to provide valuable education programs on concrete topics. This full-day seminar provides 8 hours of AIA approved HSW & PDH credits. Certificates will be issued to both architects and engineers. There is a fee of $30 to attend. All proceeds will go to your choice of the AIA Foundation or the Alabama Concrete Industries Foundation (ACIF). The ACIF yearly awards two $8,000 scholarships to students enrolled in architecture, engineering or building science at one of the state’s universities. Payments can me made online or the day of class.
dates and registration TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2017 MOBILE, AL RENAISSANCE RIVERVIEW PLAZA 65 S. WATER STREET WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 BIRMINGHAM, AL AGC HEADQUARTERS 500 GRANTSWOOD ROAD THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2017 HUNTSVILLE , AL EMBASSY SUITES 800 MONROE STREET
To register, please visit www.alconcrete.org. For questions or more information please call 334.265.0501 *Program will last from 8am - 4pm. All day attendance is not required. However, attendees will only receive credit for the hours attended. Certificates will be issued following the end of each program.
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
MONTGOMERY, AL PERMIT NO. 456
1745 Platt Place Montgomery, AL 36117 www.alconcrete.org 334.265.0501
ACIA 7t h Annual Butch Wyatt Concrete Cup Invitational Monday, October 30, 2017 Inverness Country Club 1 Country Club Drive Birmingham, AL
11am Registration & Lunch 12pm Tee off 4:30pm Prizes, Drinks and Hors D’oeuvres Please RSVP your name, company, handicap and shirt size to John (jsorrell@alconcrete.org). *Limited to first 72 registrants