URM Seismic Resilience Symposium: Assessing the Impact of Insulating History Masonry Structures

Unreinforced Masonry (URM) buildings present a challenge for earthquake-prone communities. This three-day AIA Oregon event will include lectures focusing on concerns related to URM buildings, including earthquake background, seismic upgrades, building codes and historic preservation requirements. It will take place July 18-20 at Portland State University in Portland, Oregon.

More information here.

Session Overview: Assessing the Impact of Insulating History Masonry Structures

When rehabilitating historic masonry walls, the question of insulating them is often raised. Whether to reduce energy consumption or to improve occupant comfort, insulating masonry is often perceived as beneficial yet it comes with potential pitfalls in terms of the long-term durability of the masonry. A quick review of 3D thermal analysis will provide better understanding of the real impact insulating masonry wall has on overall thermal performance of the building envelope. Hygrothermal and freeze-thaw potential analysis will provide insight of the factors to be considered when assessing the potential impact of insulating the masonry in terms of material durability. Case studies of mass and transitional (masonry encasing the steel structure) masonry buildings, undergoing building envelope retrofit are presented.

Stéphane Hoffman, Principal / Vice President, and Ivan Lee, Building Science Consultant, will co-present this session on Thursday, July 18.