SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1988
STP26377S

Some Field Problems with Thin Veneer Building Stones

Source

The authors, in examining experiences with over 40 stone veneer buildings over the past decade, describe typical problems that have arisen in the use of limestone, travertine, marble, and granite.

The modern trend to thinner ornamental dimensional stone has resulted in the use of thicknesses down to 2 to 3 cm (7/8 to 1 3/16 in.)—a significant reduction from 5.08 to 7.62 cm (2 to 3 in.) that was regarded as a lower practical limit less than ten years ago. The authors examine the consequences of such thin stone veneer in terms of strength, durability, and architectural engineering performance. Material geology, quarrying and fabrication limitations, and environmental factors are considered.

Specific field problems encountered have included a variety of structural, architectural, petrographic, and erection problems. Structural problems have included torsional twisting or thin deep beam participation at spandrel beam locations. Architectural problems have embraced differential movement or water permeability issues that affect expansion joints of internal drainage systems. Petrographic work has examined the bowing of thin marble or the weathering of travertine. Erection has involved workmanship issues (including plant fabrication considerations) or field material handling and attachment techniques.

The authors conclude with a recommended list of design criteria to avoid future problems of the kind they have encountered.

Author Information

Bortz, SA
Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc., Northbrook, IL
Erlin, B
Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc., Northbrook, IL
Monk, CB
Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc., Northbrook, IL
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Details
Developed by Committee: C18
Pages: 11–31
DOI: 10.1520/STP26377S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-5065-2
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-1164-6