Building Teams value the versatility of precast concrete exterior wall construction, but, like any cladding approach, it has its drawbacks. Conventionally used, precast panels form the weather barrier system, with the vapor barrier and insulation located on the interior face. This primary barrier system can become compromised over time for a number of reasons, such as the short effective life of sealants.
To solve this weather barrier breakdown issue, three architects from Sasaki Associates—Brad Prestbo, AIA, Senior Associate; Gerard Gutierrez, AIA, CDT, Director of Technical Resource Group; and Jeff Benea, Associate—developed a simple yet novel anchor detail that maintains air/water/vapor barrier integrity and continuous insulation, similar to cavity wall construction, while still harnessing the versatility of precast panels.
The detail uses back-to-back angles. The interior set of angles is attached to the superstructure—once in place, the air/water/vapor barrier can be applied. The exterior set of angles can then be installed, sandwiching the air/water/vapor barrier.
Panels can be hung or gravity loaded onto the structural frame. Depending on panel layout, anchor access can be made from panel jambs or head.
Since developing the system, Sasaki has deployed it in several hundred thousand square feet of cladding.
Illustration: Sasaki Architects
Related Stories
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Reclaimed wood paneling adds color to retail and hospitality projects
Colorburst panels are available in four stock options—Robin Egg Blue, Viridian Green, Haute Pink, and Cascade White—as well as custom colors.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Biophilic pods beat the shade when it comes to outdoor cooling
The Xylem concept by CallisonRTKL regulates outdoor thermal comfort through shading, air movement, water circulation, and a vegetated roof.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Mini-grant R&D program pays off in a big way for AE firm
Created through funding from Little’s LaceUp program, the Center for Building Performance has helped the design firm win 14 new jobs since its inception.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
At Beyer Blinder Belle everyone’s seeing RED
The firm’s R&D initiative inspires its designers to develop ideas that could positively disrupt the practice.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Virtual care facility serves remote patients, may reduce readmissions
Mercy’s new high-tech medical center equips its medical professionals to deliver care at the bedside of patients anywhere.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
11 great solutions for the commercial construction market
A roll-up emergency department, next-gen telemedicine center, and biophilic cooling pods are among the AEC industry’s clever ideas and novel innovations for 2016.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
13 great solutions for commercial construction
As these 13 innovations for the AEC marketplace demonstrate, sometimes a problem can be a good thing.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
Digitally fabricated concrete formwork pushes the limits of what can be cost-effectively constructed in concrete
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger and CW Keller use 3D modeling and CNC machining to advance concrete construction.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
Porcelanosa’s solid-surface product, Krion, used to create an elegant retractable ceiling for NY showroom
Typically used for countertops, vanities, and furniture, Krion was used to make 39 panels covering 1,300 sf of ceiling space above the showroom.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
Skanska’s new app helps construction teams monitor and meet environmental quality standards while renovating hospitals
App allows users to track noise, differential pressure levels, vibration, and dust
