Page 23 - Green Builder Magazine Jan-Feb 2018 Issue

Frame failure. If fasteners are
inadequate, sliding glass doors
can be blown completely out of
their jambs.

CREDIT: FEMA

Structural design that did LAZINGS IN LARGER WINDOWS have been known to blow
3 completely out of their frames, even if the glazing is laminated
not account for unprotected or otherwise protected. This negates the advantages of impact
glass or applied impact window films. However, the solution
glazing, leading to structural G may be simple: Increase the number of fasteners holding the
failures due to increased frame in place. It’s too easy to cut corners and apply fewer fasteners than
recommended by the manufacturer.
internal pressures.

4 Corrosion of anchors or connectors that attach the building to the
foundations or tie structural elements together resulted in structural

collapse in some instances.

GAIN, THIS IS a relatively easy issue to address. Assume
the worst, when it comes to corrosion. Keep in mind that
most concrete at the top of a concrete slab or foundation Made to last. Stainless concrete anchors like this one from Simpson
wall can only dry to about the same level of moisture Strong-Tie mitigate the problem of corrosion at a home’s base.
A as the ambient air. So in the Southeast, it will remain Danger zone. Rusty anchor
wetter than out west. Also, if the concrete was installed without bolts of mild steel are
vapor barriers underneath it, its moisture level will follow the ups almost inevitable in damp
and downs of the adjacent soil. Metal fasteners will be constantly soils, and frequently fail
exposed. under stress.
Fortunately, corrosion-resistant versions of foundation anchors are
now widely available. For example, Simpson sells 25 stainless steel,
half-inch concrete anchors (5-1/2-inch length) for about $70. That’s
about twice the cost of galvanized versions, but your clients will
probably understand why it’s important. Be sure to have an engineer
recommend the best size/thickness.

www.greenbuildermedia.com January/February 2018 GREEN BUILDER 21

18-25 GB 0118 NR-Next Big One.indd 21 12/14/17 4:10 PM