Product Review

Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures contains two standards and their commentaries: Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures (ACI 530-13) and Specification for Masonry Structures (ACI 530.1-13). These standards are produced through the joint efforts of The Masonry Society (TMS), the American Concrete Institute (ACI), and the Structural Engineering Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers (SEI/ASCE) through the Masonry Standards Joint Committee (MSJC). The Code covers the design and construction of masonry structures while the Specification is concerned with minimum construction requirements for masonry in structures. Some of the topics covered in the Code are: definitions, contract documents; quality assurance; materials; placement of embedded items; analysis and design; strength and serviceability; flexural and axial loads; shear; details and development of reinforcement; walls; columns; pilasters; beams and lintels; seismic design requirements; glass unit masonry; veneers; and autoclaved aerated concrete masonry. An empirical design method and a prescriptive method applicable to buildings meeting specific location and construction criteria are also included. The Specification covers subjects such as quality assurance requirements for materials; the placing, bonding and anchoring of masonry; and the placement of grout and of reinforcement. This Specification is meant to be modified and referenced in the Project Manual. The Code is written as a legal document and the Specification as a master specification required by the Code. The commentaries present background details, committee considerations, and research data used to develop the Code and Specification.