Frequently Asked Questions

Select a Topic below to expand a list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Will a concrete masonry veneer require horizontal joint reinforcement?

Are steel shelf angles required to support masonry veneer with block backup?

What are the industry recommendations on recesses in masonry veneer?

What are the industry recommendations for banding dissimilar masonry veneer materials?

Horizontal Joint Reinforcement

Will a concrete masonry veneer require horizontal joint reinforcement?

When should ladder-type joint reinforcement be used and when should truss-type joint reinforcement be used?

Are there Code requirements for joint reinforcement in masonry laid in stack bond?

Are there Code requirements, in addition to horizontal reinforcement, for masonry laid in stack bond?

Can heavy-duty 3/16-inch joint reinforcement be specified and used in a standard 3/8-inch thick mortar joint?

Can horizontal joint reinforcement be field fabricated to create 90 degree corners?

Are there Code requirements for joint reinforcement in masonry laid in stack bond?

Are there Code requirements, in addition to horizontal reinforcement, for masonry laid in stack bond?

Intersecting Walls

When are rigid steel connectors (strap anchors) required for anchoring intersecting masonry walls?

How should intersecting masonry walls be connected?

In accordance with TMS 602-11, cleanouts are not required for grout pours less than or equal to 5 ft-4 in. For grout pours exceeding 5 ft 4 in., can cleanouts be eliminated through a grout demonstration panel?

For an interior “clean room” utilizing glazed masonry unit walls, how should mortar joints be specified to facilitate cleaning?

How is mortar for masonry construction specified?

How do I determine what mortar Type to specify?

When should mortar cube testing be performed?

Is the compressive strength of mortar important?

Fire

How does one determine the fire resistance rating of an existing, single wythe, hollow concrete masonry wall?

Can the fire resistance rating of an existing, single wythe concrete masonry wall be improved by adding wall finishes?

Can the fire resistance rating of an existing, single wythe, hollow concrete masonry wall be improved by filling the cells?

How does one determine the fire resistance rating of a single wythe concrete masonry wall when only some of the cells are grouted?

In commercial construction, how should the horizontal leg of flashing at the base of the wall be terminated when the masonry veneer extends below grade?

Movement Control

What are masonry movement joints?

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