2939 Dorr Ave. Façade Repairs

The brick veneer throughout the 2939 Dorr Avenue building was exhibiting extensive freeze-thaw deterioration of the brick masonry units and mortar joints. A façade condition assessment was conducted in 2022, which included sampling and testing of brick masonry and mortar materials. After the materials testing, which included moisture absorption and petrographic analysis, it was determined that very dense, hollow brick masonry and mortar joints, coupled with poor flashings and cavity drainage, were causing the observed freeze-thaw damage. Recommendations were made to have the entire brick veneer removed and replaced, along with through-wall flashing repairs, replacement of existing sealants, and replacement of deteriorated dry cast stone elements.

Upon the initial removal of the brick masonry during phase 1 of the repair program, it was discovered that the CMU masonry backup wall was in poor condition with inadequately placed mortar joints and discontinuous/damaged CMU masonry units. Given the poor conditions of the backup wall and the intent to install a fluid-applied air/water barrier (AWB) before the installation of the new brick veneer, it was determined that an FRCM system would help to restore the structural integrity of the CMU masonry backup (without having to cut and install vertical reinforcement plus extensive re-pointing) and provide a suitable substrate for the application of the fluid-applied AWB.