Masonry veneer to supporting wall anchors in non-seismic locales should be spaced at up to how many inches on center horizontally?

Masonry veneer to supporting wall anchors in non-seismic locales should be spaced at up to how many inches on center horizontally?

• A. 12 inches
• B. 24 inches
• C. 36 inches
• D. 48 inches

Answer: (B)

Reducing movement and transferring lateral loads from the veneer to the structural wall is the main purpose of masonry veneer anchors. In non-seismic areas, the code allows these anchors to be spaced up to 24 inches apart measured on center horizontally. This two-foot spacing provides enough restraint to keep the veneer tied to the backing under wind and other loads without excessive hardware. Choosing a spacing larger than 24 inches would weaken the connection and could lead to veneer cracking, buckling, or detachment, especially as wind pressure or settlement occurs. Spacings smaller than 24 inches are acceptable, but the key point is that 24 inches is the maximum allowable horizontally. In regions with seismic concerns, the spacing is typically governed by more stringent requirements, but for non-seismic locales, the up-to-24-inch rule is the standard.

Reducing movement and transferring lateral loads from the veneer to the structural wall is the main purpose of masonry veneer anchors. In non-seismic areas, the code allows these anchors to be spaced up to 24 inches apart measured on center horizontally. This two-foot spacing provides enough restraint to keep the veneer tied to the backing under wind and other loads without excessive hardware.

Choosing a spacing larger than 24 inches would weaken the connection and could lead to veneer cracking, buckling, or detachment, especially as wind pressure or settlement occurs. Spacings smaller than 24 inches are acceptable, but the key point is that 24 inches is the maximum allowable horizontally.

In regions with seismic concerns, the spacing is typically governed by more stringent requirements, but for non-seismic locales, the up-to-24-inch rule is the standard.