Targeting a construction industry staple of more than a century’s standing since the first concrete block was formed over 125 years ago two revised masonry
Targeting a construction industry staple of more than a century’s standing Û since the first concrete block was formed over 125 years ago Û two revised masonry publications recently have been released. Portland Cement Association (PCA) offers the sixth edition of its Concrete Masonry Handbook for Architects, Engineers, Builders; and, National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) and International Code Council (ICC) have completed the third edition of Inspection and Testing of Concrete Masonry Construction.
Concrete masonry advancements highlighted in the newest edition of PCA’s Concrete Masonry Handbook facilitate the design and construction of state-of-the-art residential, commercial, and industrial structures. The manual discusses common practices for concrete masonry construction, detailing items ranging from the latest ASTM reference standards to materials and method innovations. Major emphasis is placed on provisions of relevant codes, including the 2006 International Building Code and the 2005 Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures, published by the Masonry Standards Joint Committee.
Additionally, the Concrete Masonry Handbook provides comprehensive coverage of materials, addressing units, mortar, and grout. Relevant research and technical publications, including the National Concrete Masonry Association TEK series, are extensively referenced to provide both a thorough understanding of topics at hand and a key resource for deeper study.
An appendix offers 40-plus details of masonry sections; and, a new glossary constitutes a useful reference for masonry design and construction professionals. More than 200 color photos illustrate masonry design principles and building techniques. The 300-plus-page Sixth Edition can be ordered via the PCA Bookstore at www.cement.org/bookstore, or by calling 800/868-6733.
Released by NCMA and ICC in February, the third edition of Inspection and Testing of Concrete Masonry Construction was updated to reference both 2003 and 2006 editions of the International Building Code. Moreover, the publication cites requirements of 2005 Building Code for Masonry Structures (ACI 530/ASCE 5/TMS 402) and Specifications for Masonry Structures (ACI 530.1/ASCE 6/TMC 602). Accordingly, the manual provides an in-depth look at masonry inspections, aided by photos, graphics and checklists. Also included is new placement and testing guidance for self-consolidating grout, as well as provisions for continuous and periodic special inspections.
Here in one volume are the 2003 and 2006 International Building Code requirements for inspection and testing of masonry structures and materials, notes NCMA Director of Technical Publications Dennis Graber. Inspection and Testing of Concrete Masonry Construction is a terrific resource not only for field inspection and laboratory technicians, but also for designers, as it contains a lot of background information regarding code requirements.
Adds Mark Johnson, ICC senior vice president of business and product development, This publication is a great tool for conducting consistent, high-quality inspections. It offers the best information on how to inspect masonry at various stages of construction Û a must-have tool for masonry designers and inspectors.
Inspection and Testing of Concrete Masonry Construction, third edition, can be purchased online at www.ncma.org, or by phone at 703/713-1900.