Contemporary masonry veneer construction consists of a single wythe of masonry, such as brick or stone, mechanically anchored to a backup structure, typically either wood or light-gauge steel framing or concrete masonry units (CMUs).

Retrofitting building components with high-performance insulation to maintain stable thermal temperatures can increase the energy efficiency of a building. Going one step further, roof replacements are one of the most common and effective envelope...


Some manufacturers are using fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) technology to create curtain wall components, reinforcements, and pressure plates that can be incorporated into the hollow chambers of aluminum frames to significantly bolster the system’s overall...

What is not as well-known is how fire-rated floor doors play an essential role in passive fire protection. Building codes classify two types of doors for fire-rated openings in horizontal assemblies: fire-rated floor doors...



A TCP is a document typically prepared by an experienced licensed engineer who is knowledgeable on the thermal behaviour of concrete. A TCP provides a foundation to ensure high thermal stresses and cracking of...

When it comes to specifying fenestration products, the most important consideration is to ensure consistency between requirements for products from Other Fenestration Assemblies, those in the scope of NAFS, and those in related divisions...

As an alternative to removing and replacing the original masonry, project teams and architects are encouraged to design an insulated facade layer with vapour barrier, creating a new enclosure that is watertight and energy...