Tn 18A web-nov06. indd

Figure 10

Flexible Anchorage to Beams and Columns

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Brick Industry Association

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TN

 

18A

 

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Accommodating Expansion of Brickwork 

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Page 9 of 11

detailed appropriately for the differential movement and the moisture drainage system is designed and constructed 

properly. In these buildings, differential movement is accommodated by the anchor or tie system, window details, 

detailing at top of the wall and where other building components pass through the brickwork. These details must 

provide independent vertical movement between the brickwork and the backing. Building components that extend 

into or through the brick veneer (e.g., windows, doors, vents, etc.) also must be detailed to allow independent 

vertical movement of the brick veneer and the component. The structural frame or backing provides the brick 

veneer with lateral support and carries all other vertical loads. The veneer is anchored by flexible connectors or 

adjustable anchors that permit differential movement. Allowance for differential movement between the exterior 

brickwork and the adjacent components should be provided at all openings and at the tops of walls. Vertical 

expansion joints also must be incorporated, as discussed in previous sections of this Technical Note.

Connectors, anchors or ties that transfer load from the brick wythe to a structural frame or backing that 

provides lateral support should resist movement perpendicular to the plane of the wall (tension and 

compression) but allow movement parallel to the wall without becoming disengaged. This flexible anchorage 

permits differential movements between the structure and the brickwork. 

Figure 10

 shows typical methods 

for anchoring masonry walls to columns and beams. Technical Note 44B provides detailed information about 

masonry ties and anchors.

The size and spacing of anchors and ties are based on tensile and compressive loads induced by lateral loads 

on the walls or on prescriptive anchor and tie spacing requirements in building codes. Technical Note 44B lists 

recommended tie spacing based on application.

There must be sufficient clearance among the masonry elements and the beams and columns of the structural 

frame to permit the expected differential movement. The masonry walls may be more rigid than the structural 

frame. This clearance provides isolation between the brickwork and frame, allowing independent movement.