What is a brick veneer?

Masonry veneer is a building material used on the outer walls of households and commercial buildings. It consists of thin pieces of brick or stone and gives the appearance of a solid masonry without associated weight and cost. Veneer masonry is connected to the structure of the building, but is independently supported and does not stop any additional loads on the structural components of the building. Because it is primarily used for its appearance and it is a bearing, the walls of the masonry are often referred to as the "walls of curtains".

There are two basic methods of wall construction using masonry veneer. The first is known as an anchored system and relies on brick links and angular holders that anchor the veneer wall to structural framing the building. The second type of wall construction is the adhesive system. Using this technique, the veneer is connected to the structure using a thin layer of mortar, without the need for bricks. Many local building regulations where each of these systems can be used, based on the design of the building and the risk of high wind or other factors related toby the weather.

The farthest layer of these walls is made of masonry veneer and mortar. Depending on the type of veneer used, the stone can be installed against a plate supported from dense foam or plywood. In the case of brick veneer, the masonry exterior can be simply self -sufficient, without the necessary plate support. A air cavity is usually maintained behind the veneer and is used for drainage. In the innermost layer of the wall is a structural system of a building that can consist of brick blocks or traditional steel or wood framing.

Veneer masonry offers a number of advantages over other types of construction. The air cavity in these walls allows effective drainage that keeps water or moisture before damage to the home. The water is able to travel to the base of the air cavity, where it is exhausted to the outer part through small holes in the pipe called "cry holes". The air cavity also provides space for insulation, which canthat help to improve the heat resistance of walls.

Walls built with veneer can be built faster and affordable than traditional masonry walls. The cost of veneer is usually lower than that of bricks or stone, and the lightweight weight of the veneer allows more efficient installation that can reduce labor costs. The relatively low weight of veneer also means that the building's endowment system can be less and less complex. Finally, because the walls of veneer are non -compatible, they can be installed on the walls and roof of the building, which provides great flexibility for builders.