SYSTEMS/MASONRY
Construction Requirements
There are several key requirements for building a masonry wall with good thermal and airtightness
performance and with the ability to control water leakage. The following construction requirements
are from the CMHC Seminar on brick veneer wall systems:
Mortar joints must be completely filled and tooled on the exterior face to be resistant
l
to rain penetration.
Mortar joints on the backup wall must also be filled and properly tooled since it also
l
Mortar droppings within the cavity must be minimized and weepholes must be kept
l
open.
Securely anchor undamaged flashing to backup wall with properly lapped joints and
l
extend sufficiently to clear the exterior face of veneer.
Shelf angles must not tilt backwards. Sealant and backer rod must be installed
l
below shelf angles to prevent water from entering the top of the veneer and cavity.
Ties must not provide a path to carry water to the backup wall. Seal perforations of
l
exterior components of backup wall caused by ties.
Ensure that cavity insulation is fastened tightly to the backup wall.
l
Avoid gaps between insulation units and gaps between wall insulation and insulation
l
in other wall components.
Maintain continuity in the insulation and air barrier systems, including intersections
l
with other building components.
Follow manufacturer's instructions for specified sealants
l
Do not substitute any materials without approval of designer.
l
Protect work in progress from damage due to weather and construction activities by
l
other trades.
PAGE 4.2-16