Masonry veneer is a popular method for constructing walls in homes. It provides many advantages over traditional brick construction. It also increases energy efficiency in a home.
While brick veneer has less structural requirements than solid masonry, it must be designed with specific considerations in mind. These include crack control, deflection of the backup wall and horizontal supports, and differential movement between the veneer and the backing.
Cost-Effective
Masonry veneer can save builders money by reducing the amount of mortar used to construct a home. It is also less labor-intensive and less costly than solid brick masonry, which makes it an attractive option for new construction and remodeling. Additionally, it provides insulation and reduces heating and cooling costs.
While brick veneer may require less skill than traditional masonry, it is important to hire a contractor with experience for this type of project. Having an experienced contractor will ensure that the wrap and mat and lathe are applied correctly to prevent problems years down the road. They will also be able to properly set angles and corners, which is vital with masonry.
Masonry veneer walls are designed to anticipate moisture penetration and consists of multiple components that act together to provide structural integrity combined with rapid drainage and drying. Traditional adhered masonry veneer walls rely on double layers of WRB and self-furring metal lath to facilitate drying and drainage and batt, foam or rigid insulation between the studs for insulation.
Adhered masonry veneer walls on wood framing or steel framing must be backed with a continuous, moisture-resistant back-up wall. Backing material can be masonry, concrete, steel lath or portland cement plaster. In addition, the backing must be capable of supporting the imposed loads of the adhered veneer and resist deflection at its perimeter. Differential movement between the veneer and the backing can be accommodated by using control joints, horizontal joint reinforcement or adjustable anchors.
Lightweight
Masonry veneer is lightweight, making it easy to transport and install on a construction site. It also adds an architectural element to the structure and allows for a wider range of design options that other types of wall construction cannot provide. Masonry veneer also offers excellent durability, with the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions such as high winds or rain and resists pests and fire.
When used as an exterior facing, masonry veneer is typically attached to wood framing using a sheathing that meets required deflection limits. It is typically adhered to this sheathing with an adhesive, preferably portland cement plaster. Prior to adhering, the sheathing surface should be clean of materials that affect bond such as dirt, grease, oils, or paint.
Alternatively, masonry veneer can be anchored to the structural backing with adjustable anchors. This system can be installed on wood or steel backing. In either case, sheathing must be ship-lapped a minimum of 6 in. at seams and must be protected with a waterproof barrier such as building paper or a water-resistant coating. Anchored masonry veneer systems must be designed to transfer out-of-plane loads through the anchors to the backing system.
Sto offers a complete line of code-compliant, fully engineered masonry veneer systems that can be paired with thin brick, natural stone, ceramic tile, or manufactured stone to deliver excellent air and water tightness, thermal performance, and durability. Our systems are easily installed and incorporate continuous exterior insulation to meet today’s stringent energy codes.
Versatile
Masonry veneer provides builders with flexibility to customize their project by combining aesthetics and regional preferences. Veneer stone comes in a wide range of textures, shapes and colors to satisfy almost any interior design layout. The lightweight material is also a cost-effective way to add insulation to the building envelope, saving on energy costs and improving comfort.
In contrast to solid masonry, brick veneer walls typically consist of one wythe (a single structural layer of masonry), leaving an open cavity behind the backing wall where moisture and mortar droppings can collect. To reduce water penetration into the building, a continuous air space behind the brick must be detailed with flashing and weeps to collect moisture and direct it to the exterior of the structure.
Moreover, a brick veneer system allows construction of the backup wall to proceed simultaneously with the erection of the outer brick layer. This allows the rest of the building structure to be framed and insulated prior to completing the façade, thereby speeding up construction time and reducing costs.
Although the primary consideration in a masonry veneer design is to prevent moisture penetration into the building, it can provide a significant improvement in a wall’s R-value. On average, brick veneer has a higher R-value than vinyl, fiber cement or wood siding. Achieving this increase in R-value requires quality materials, proper detailing and a high standard of installation. Several systems are available to aid in the application of adhered veneer, including galvanized metal support panels that mechanically anchor the masonry veneer and sheathing to stud framing members. These panels can provide a waterproof surface and may also provide drainage or ventilation channels.
Insulation
Masonry veneer adds extra insulation to the wall, which can save energy costs and improve comfort. It can also be used to upgrade the look of your home or business, adding curb appeal and increasing value. There are several types of masonry veneer systems, including brick, natural stone, ceramic tile and concrete. These products are available in a variety of colors and sizes to match any design preference. These materials can be stained with Permatint, which combines natural minerals and inorganic pigments to lighten, darken or change the color of the masonry.
Many builders opt for brick masonry veneer rather than solid brick construction in new buildings. This is because it is more cost-efficient and provides more flexibility with design. Masonry veneer is a thin layer that sits on a structural backing, which can be concrete, steel or wood. It is not a load-bearing wall, but can add strength to the structure.
Most masonry veneer walls require a tieback system to ensure that they are adequately supported by the building framing. These ties, which are usually corrugated metal straps nailed or screwed to the structural framing members, prevent the masonry veneer from moving under wind or earthquake loads.
There are a number of proprietary systems that help with this process. These products take the place of lath and plaster in adhered veneer applications and include support tabs and other features to facilitate the application of masonry veneer and aid in the transfer of loads.