Specification For Masonry Structures: TEK 1-2C
Specification For Masonry Structures: TEK 1-2C
Specification For Masonry Structures: TEK 1-2C
INTRODUCTION
Specification for Masonry Structures (MSJC Specifi- ing, as well as provisions for quality assurance, testing
cation) (ref. 1) is a national consensus standard intended to and inspection. Construction includes requirements for
be incorporated by reference into the contract documents masonry placement, bonding and anchorage, and the
of masonry construction projects. Compliance with this placement of grout, reinforcement and prestressing ten-
Specification is mandatory for structures designed in ac- dons. The document is formatted to allow the designer
cordance with Building Code Requirements for Masonry to modify those provisions which include a choice of
Structures (MSJC Code) (ref. 2). alternatives. Thus, the MSJC Specification may be tailored
The masonry design and construction provisions in to meet the specific needs of a project. Modifications
Chapter 21 of the International Building Code (IBC) (ref. are considered to be a supplemental specification to the
3) are based primarily on the MSJC Code and Specifica- MSJC Specification.
tion. When adopting the MSJC Code and Specification, The advantages of a standard specification include
the IBC typically amends or modifies some provisions. consistency, coordination and understanding among all
Because significant changes can be introduced into parties involved. A Commentary, which accompanies the
subsequent editions of both the MSJC and the IBC, the MSJC Specification, explains the mandatory requirements
edition referenced by the local building code can be an and further clarifies the Specification's intent.
important consideration when determining the specific The document is written in the three-part section
requirements to be met. Note that building officials will format of the Construction Specifications Institute. Each
often accept design and construction standards which are of the three parts (General, Products and Execution) is
more current than those referenced in the applicable code, described in the following sections.
as they represent more state-of-the art requirements for In addition to these three parts, checklists are included
the specific material or system. at the end of the MSJC Specification to help the designer
This TEK provides a broad overview of the MSJC prepare the contract documents. The checklists identify
Specification's content, references other NCMA TEK the decisions that must be made when preparing any
which describe the various provisions in greater detail, supplemental specifications. They are not a mandatory
outlines updates incorporated into the 2008 edition of part of the Specification.
the MSJC Specification, and notes differences between Several articles of the MSJC Specification are prefaced
the 2008 MSJC Specification and the 2009 IBC. with the phrase "when required..." These articles do not
become a part of the contract documents unless action is
THE MSJC SPECIFICATION taken by the designer to include a requirement in the supple-
mental specifications. Other articles are prefaced with the
The MSJC Specification covers material requirements, phrase "unless otherwise required..." These articles are a
storage and handling of materials, construction, and clean- part of the contract documents unless the designer takes
NCMA and the companies disseminating this technical information disclaim any and all responsibility and liability for the
accuracy and the application of the information contained in this publication.
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