Plymouth South Middle School
Evaluation and Design of Exterior Masonry Wall
Plymouth, Massachusetts
The east wing of the Plymouth South Middle School underwent numerous exterior masonry wall repairs over the past decade due to severe water and moisture infiltration caused by poor construction methods and improper waterproofing details. The louver vents were oversized for the interior classroom unit ventilators and were not sealed properly allowing air and wind-driven rain to easily enter the building. Improper throughwall flashings at the floor slab relieving angles and window heads did not allow water and moisture to escape the wall cavity. Gale provided the following services to solve these issues:
- Evaluated the exterior masonry walls, windows, louvers, roofs and performed various masonry test cuts for investigation
- Prepared a report including an in-depth evaluation of the existing conditions, various design solutions, recommendations and cost estimates
- Met with Building Department to present the masonry replacement options and rain screen options
- Prepared specifications and detail drawings for the removal and replacement of the entire exterior masonry facade with the addition of waterproofing and insulation within the wall cavity
- Reviewed and commented on contractor submittals, shop drawings, and mock-ups
- Provided construction administration phase services