Brick Veneer

 

Brick Veneer

Masonry veneer walls consist of a single non-structural external layer of masonry work, typically brick, backed by an air space. The innermost element is usually structural, and may consist of wood or metal framing or masonry. Walls constructed in this manner have several advantages over solid masonry, some of which are shared with the Cavity wall (where inner and outer layers are both structural) while others are distinct to masonry veneer walls: The cavity can include insulation, which is typically in the form of rigid foam, increasing the thermal performance of the wall. The structural framing or masonry backup can be erected first to allow the rest of the building structure to be completed concurrently with the outer veneer, rather than waiting for the entire wall structure to be completed before proceeding with the roof and upper floors.
A masonry veneer wall can be completed in a shorter time with less labor than a solid masonry wall thus saving in cost. The weight of a veneer wall can be significantly less than solid masonry, resulting in economies in foundations and structural support. Brick veneer is non-structural. Masonry veneers can be made of any concrete, manufactured clay, artificial stone or natural stone product. Typically, masonry refers to individual units that are placed in a mortar bed, making a distinction with panelized products. If a masonry veneer is used over a framed wall, sheathing and a moisture barrier are required to assure the weather tightness of the assembly. Buildings with masonry veneer walls can be better at cooling down during extended periods of hot weather than framed and sided buildings – making conditions more comfortable at night during summer. Reverse masonry veneer walls have the brickwork inside and lightweight frame and cladding outside. This has the advantage of providing the thermal mass on the inside of a building.