Abstract
Masonry walls are common in Europe, including Scandinavian countries where wood buildings have a strong tradition. Even these walls are known for their durability in climates with moderate driving rain exposure, masonry defects remain a challenge for the construction industry. This study performs an archival analysis to explore the physical causes of masonry defects in Norway and how their patterns have evolved over the past 40 years. The statistical analysis utilizes the SINTEF building defect archive, a comprehensive and high-quality private database documenting building defects in Norway. In total 994 process induced masonry defect assignments over the period from 1983 to 2022 were analysed with purpose to gain insight into pathological changes over the last four decades. Findings from the period 1983 to 2002, which has previously been published in 2009, are now compared with the situations for the period 2003 to 2022. Cracking due to shrinkage and thermal movement was the most prominent masonry damage in Norway from 1983 to 2002. The introduction of a new rendering system for Light Expanded Clay Aggregate masonry in 2002 successfully eliminated such cracking in the later period. The study also reveals the ongoing vulnerability of masonry to weather conditions, particularly driving rain. Deficient flashing and rain barriers are major contributors to defects. Furthermore, a wetter climate, with more heavy rainfall, has increased issues with moisture absorption and biological growth on façades. The prevalence of masonry defects in Norway indicates that it’s not just extreme weather events that require attention. Many of the masonry defects could have been prevented with more detailed engineering and better application of existing design guidelines. Additionally, the analysis highlights the need for design guidelines that account for local climate adaptation and the impacts of climate change to enhance resilience.