Hot & Cold Weather Masonry Construction

Foreword

This document was developed as a reference for the construction of masonry structures during above-normal and below-normal temperature conditions. The practices presented herein are based on criteria presented in Specification for Masonry Structures, ACI 530.1-98/ASCE 5-98/TMS 402-98, prepared by the Masonry Standards Joint Committee (MSJC).

When masonry construction is conducted under either of these conditions, it is important to have an understanding of the effects of temperature (both ambient and mean daily) and wind, as well as an understanding of the influence these environmental factors have on masonry and mortar properties, construction practices, and economics.

A knowledge of these factors provides an important tool to the designer and contractor during the early planning stages. From this knowledge, judgments may be made regarding the type and amount of protection, if any, that may be required at all stages of the construction. This also provides a sound basis for the development of construction scheduling and cost estimates. Just as importantly, this knowledge is also useful in providing guidelines to the mason contractor during the daily construction sequence to assure that the completed masonry performs to the satisfaction of the architect, designer, and owner.

The Masonry Industry Council believes that the methods and procedures recommended in this publication are important in assuring the quality and performance of masonry constructed in all types of weather.

The recommendations contained herein are the consensus of the Masonry Industry Council.