VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION
VA REGIONAL OFFICE TECHNICAL CRITERIA
♦
Masonry and Glass System: This window wall shall consist of brick masonry veneer and concrete
masonry framed backupappropriate with precast concrete, cast stone or limestone feature strips and
sills, and precast concrete or limestone copings and cornice pieces. Bituminous damp proofing on
Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) backing with a minimum 2 inch rigid insulation (R-14) shall be applied
at the exterior face of the CMU structure. The insulation shall provide a flame spread of 25 or less
and exposure protection. Provide a minimum of two inches of free air space between the brick and the
outside face of insulation. All exterior joints shall be sealed with silicone sealant/backer rod and
incorporate weep holes, 24 inches on center, at grade and through wall flashing.
♦
Precast Concrete and Glass System: This window wall shall consist of architecturally articulated
precast concrete with varying finishes, textures, and colors. Thermal insulation shall provide a
minimum R-14 value. Tilt-up concrete panels are not acceptable. Provide all required reinforcing,
inserts, hardware, weld points, lifting mechanisms and miscellaneous items as required. Each precast
concrete panel shall be attached to the structure in such a manner as to accommodate for building and
window wall movement. All exterior joints shall be sealed with silicone and backer rod.
In both systems the glass shall comply with ASHRAE/IESNA. Energy conservation, comfort of the
occupant and aesthetics of the building will control the design and glazing options. The color of the
glass, its reflectance, UV transmittance, optimum range of U-Value and solar heat gain are
important criteria that should be considered in conjunction with heating and cooling requirements.
An adequate condensation resistance factor (CRF) of 60 to 65 and continuous thermal breaks in the
window frames are essential to prevent condensation from forming on window surfaces.
Opaque Walls and Louver Areas
Opaque walls shall be either brick masonry or precast concrete. Metal louvers incorporated in the
wall for air intake orof exhaust shall be extruded aluminum, sight proof and weather proof,
approximately 50 percent efficient and backed with insulated and sealed blank-off panels where not
active. Louvers shall be manufacturer standard finish to match exterior window wall system and
shall have birdinsect screens at all active areas. The VA shall approve the colors.
Penthouse/Equipment Screens
Locate penthouses and roof top equipment so they are not visible from grade. Metal panels and
stucco may be used to aid in hiding penthouses and rooftop equipment from view.
Exterior Soffits
Exterior soffits shall be suspended, insulated and painted exterior type gypsum board with a
textured finish, stucco or synthetic stucco.
ARCHITECTURAL CRITERIA
5
Previous Page
