PHRC Events
HBAs Hosted Fundamentals of Exterior Plaster & Thin Stone Veneer Assemblies Workshop by PHRC
Date: 12/13/2017
On December 13, 2017, the
Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties and the Home
Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties hosted the Fundamentals
of Exterior Plaster & Thin Stone Veneer Assemblies Workshop presented by the
Pennsylvania Housing Research Center (PHRC). With speakers, Brian Wolfgang,
associate director of the PHRC, and Steve Long, president of E.R. Long
Associates, the workshop drew a full crowd with over thirty participants. The
diverse audience included contractors, inspectors, and design professionals,
who participated in a lively discussion during the workshop.
"The stucco failure
capital of the United States" is how Joseph Lstiburek, internationally
renowned building scientist, referred to eastern Pennsylvania in his article,
The Perfect Storm. Improper installation of exterior plaster finish systems,
like hardcoat stucco and adhered stone veneer, can lead to severe moisture
problems and cracking. This workshop explored relevant exterior plaster code
requirements, reviewed proper flashing techniques, lath requirements, and
treatment of joints between dissimilar materials. Rainscreen systems and
products were also discussed including their potential benefit to the exterior
wall system.
By the end of the workshop,
participants understood the code requirements that relate to the construction
of exterior plaster and thin stone veneer assemblies and related the effects of
improper construction technique to occupant risk and building failure. Also,
they could detail appropriate flashing components in order to provide cost
effective and durable construction solutions. All of this allowed them to
comprehend the impact that evolving construction materials and progressive
energy requirements will have on the resiliency of residential buildings. This
informative workshop also provided continuing education credits to all
participants.
As a reminder, all HBA members receive
discounts to various PHRC events and trainings like our upcoming 26th
Annual PHRC Housing Conference on February 28 and March 1, 2018 in State
College, Pennsylvania. Also, please let us know if your group would be interested in hosting a workshop; view available topics here.