Assembly joints: A review of scientific literature, standards and terminology

This review article evaluates the existing scientific literature, regulations, and terminology on assembly joints, their sealing, and material characteristics. The main objective is to systematize the fundamentals terms and definitions related to assembly joints and, based on the analysis, formulate arguments for classifying construction joints as «building products» or «building structures. Methodology: The review utilized a general scientific method of synthesizing, analyzing, and classifying information. Scopus and eLibrary scientific databases were used to identify and collect the most relevant studies. Results: An analysis of scientific research and regulatory documentation revealed a lack of empirical and theoretical data in the design of assembly joints for window unit junctions to wall structures. The reviewed publications emphasize the importance of the assembly joint for the performance of enclosing structures. Inconsistencies and contradictions in regulatory requirements (Russian State Standard GOST 30 971−2012) for the design and selection of materials for assembly connections were noted. The standard's concept fails to take into account the characteristics of enclosing structures and climatic operating conditions, which contradicts scientific data. The required vapor permeability resistance values for the layers of the assembly joint lack sufficient justification. Conclusion: Based on the analysis conducted, an interpretation of the assembly unit as a set of functionally complementary layers (vapor barrier, thermal insulation and waterproofing) for insulating and sealing the gap between structures is proposed. The identified lack of scientific data and the lack of validity of regulatory documents indicate the need for further research to develop a methodology for selecting materials for assembly joint, taking into account the humidity regime and climate.

***ARTICLE IN PRESS***