More information to come as we get closer to the event!
2024 Westcon Symposium
2023 Westcon Symposium
Thursday, November 9, 2023
San Ramon Marriott
2600 Bishop Dr, San Ramon, CA
The 13th Annual Westcon Symposium is a day-long seminar presented by a highly qualified panel of experts in an interactive learning environment.
On Thursday, November 9th, at the San Ramon Marriott attendees will gain a thorough knowledge of window systems into existing building systems.
Learning Objectives:
- New construction AAMA testing requirements
- Case study of window and door leaks in new construction
- Weather barrier construction for openings
- Forensic investigation of fenestration problems
- Case study of window leak problems in an existing HOA
- Insurance issues and responsibility for repairs
The Symposium panels of experts will include attorneys, insurance experts, contractors, architects, engineers, and finance representatives.
$275 Member Early Price
*Increases to $375 after October 26th!
6:30 a.m. - 7:00 a.m.
Vendor Setup
7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.
Registration & Breakfast
8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
President's Welcome Address & Sponsor Recognition
Westcon Vice President, Wendy Miller
8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Chris Nelson, Salas O'Brien
Supercomputer leaks: one thing led to another. A failure of sealant, fire resistance, curtain wall weeps, and expansion joints
Description of Program:
Leakage due to a lack of backer rod behind sealant, led to discoveries of blocked weeps for the curtain wall, roof to curtain wall expansion joint with minimal expansion capacity, no floor-to-floor fire resistance of the fire blanket in the expansion joint, and premature aging of the roof base flashing. Curious investigation, major renovation and collaborative design efforts plus litigation and significant money, were needed to fix this.
Learning objectives:
- Understanding the basics of sealant design and application.
- The need for collaborative interdisciplinary design.
- The need to understand the whole problem before making repairs.
9:30 - 10:00 a.m.
Break – Networking with Exhibitors and Sponsors
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Christine Diosdado, P.E., Associate Principal, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger
Stucco Buckets: A Common (and Concealed) Cause of Wood Decay in Stucco-Clad Construction
Recent collapses of exterior elevated elements (EEEs) like balconies, walkways, and stairs have caused injuries and fatalities, leading to increased scrutiny of these features. Stucco-clad EEEs on weather-exposed elevations are particularly susceptible to structural damage and catastrophic failure. These features often include so-called “stucco buckets”—structural members encased in stucco with no provision to drain or vent—which pose the greatest risk since they tend to collect and hold water against the surface of the structural member for prolonged periods after a rain event. These stucco buckets can also conceal severely decayed and structurally compromised framing members, often with no visible signs of distress. In this presentation, Christine will explain how and why to avoid stucco buckets when designing EEE elements, discuss current code requirements for weeping and venting stucco-clad assemblies, and share best practices for designing and repairing these features.
11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Break – Networking with Exhibitors and Sponsors
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Joe Pinon, RDH Building Science & Julie Anderson, RDH Building Science
“Have You Ever Seen the Drain? Hold Credence in Clearing Water from Your Walls"
Description / Abstract
This presentation delves into the complex world of wall assemblies, ranging from efficient rainscreen systems to concealed barrier constructions. It explores the concept of drainage planes associated with various assembly types, identifying their performance characteristics and inherent risks. With a focus on the essential code requirements for wall drainage, this session addresses upcoming changes in the California Building Code. These changes mandate the inclusion of drainage cavities in specific climate zones across the state. Additionally, the presentation discusses challenges of integrating wall drainage while maintaining NFPA 285 compliance and providing practical solutions.
AIA Learning Objectives
After attending this program, participants will be able to:
- Identify types of Wall Assemblies (from rainscreen to concealed barrier) and the performance & risks associated with each type.
- Understand upcoming California Building Code changes that will require drainage “cavities” in certain climate zones.
- Understand challenges caused by adding drain mats with other combustible layers and complying with NFPA 285.
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Lunch
1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Rodney Calkum, Aquatech Consultancy, Inc.
Consequences of Building Enclosure Failures
Presentation will review examples and consequences of building enclosure failures at various types of wall penetrations, with a discussion of failure modes and causes in workmanship and documentation which may have contributed as well as process suggestions for avoiding similar failures. While the logic and practices discussed are applicable for a variety of cladding types, this presentation will focus largely on penetrations in portland cement plaster systems.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop awareness of causes and consequences of water intrusion at wall penetrations.
- Identify typical wall penetration conditions
- Understand common failure modes and mechanisms
- Identify areas of concern for designers, specifiers and installers.
- Recognize how enclosure installations work to either reduce or increase risk of water penetration.
- Recognize components of key penetration construction details.
2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon Break – Networking with Exhibitors and Sponsors
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Blake Schatz, Schatz Structures & Waterproofing, Inc.
Avoiding Disasters with Water Testing
Water-related construction disasters can wreak havoc on the integrity, safety, and longevity of a building. To avoid these disasters, it is essential to implement an adequate quality assurance program. As part of any building envelope quality assurance program, consultants and contractors should include robust water testing protocols.
This presentation will discuss various performance water testing procedures and the best practices to implement an adequate quality assurance water testing program. With a focus on exterior walls, windows, and deck assemblies, this presentation will examine appropriate ways to minimize the likelihood of water intrusion disasters.
4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
CLOSING REMARKS & Sponsor Recognition
Companies must book sponsorship no later than 10 business days prior to this event in order to guarantee signage at the event.
(One of each sponsorship available unless noted otherwise.)
Table Sponsor (1/4 Available) $1500
Includes one (1) attendee; more may be purchased at attendee price. Early Bird Special Until October 9th - $1500 Standard Pricing $1795
Badges Sponsor $1000
Logo on all attendee badges with WESTCON logo
Lanyard Sponsor
Lunch Sponsor $1,000 (3/4 Available)
Signage on buffet, includes two (2) attendees
Program Sponsor $1000 (1 Available)
Includes one (1) attendee ticket. Sponsor a specific session of symposium! Company representative introduces speakers and self (1 minute hello).
Breakfast Sponsor $750 (3/4 Available)
Signage on buffet
Centerpiece Sponsor $750 (Four Available)
Westcon will supply centerpiece. Company logo on/near centerpiece.
Internet Sponsor $750
Everyone loves having Wifi - supply that need.
Swag Bag Sponsor
Swag Sponsor $75
Sponsor supplies 120 swag items for attendee bag
Break Sponsor $750
Coffee helps people learn! Sponsor a coffee break. Company logo on coffee station.
Parking Sponsor $500
Parking at a reduced cost for event - help attendees park! Signage on Registration table.
CLICK HERE to REGISTER!
*Only credits will be given after purchase of symposium sponsorship/ticket. Cancellation for credit through October 26th