| One fact of masonry
construction is that masonry walls are subject to conditions that cause
movement. A great deal of research has been done on this subject. Even
simple circumstances such as temperature variations in the summer can
create dimensional changes of up to one half inch in a one hundred foot
masonry wall. If these conditions are compensated for, the wall will
endure and perform as intended.
Early terra cotta construction used steel reinforcement and anchoring,
however none of the steel was prepared to deal with moisture. Many of
these structures failed years later due to corrosion of the steel.
Today's design practices and available materials for anchoring and
reinforcement recognize the potential for moisture and movement.
Today's standard anchoring materials range from epoxy coated and
galvanized to stainless steel and high tech resins. There are several
anchor manufacturers who employ engineers that can help select and/or
design the best system and materials for the application.
We have included a link to anchor manufacturers that we feel are very
competent and will provide you with superior products and services. (Click
on the "Links" menu at left.)
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