Applications and Benefits of Engineered Masonry Veneer

For several decades, anchored masonry veneer was designed using prescriptive requirements based upon “tried and true” results. However, in order to use the prescriptive requirements, several limitations must be met, or the designer was required to use the “Alternative Design” method. This rational design method was rooted in the principles of mechanics of transferring load through the veneer into veneer ties, then into the backing, and finally into the structure; however, the explicit procedure was not specified. With the adoption of the 2024 International Building Code and its referenced masonry code (TMS 402-22), there is a new defined engineered method for designing anchored masonry veneer, the Tributary Area Method, in addition to the Modeling Analysis Method, formerly known as Alternative Design. 

The Tributary Area Method can be used to design anchored dimension stone veneer, anchored veneer in high wind or seismic areas, anchored veneer units not compliant with the prescriptive limitations, or anchored veneer ties not compliant with the prescriptive limitations. In addition to these new applications for anchored masonry veneer, the Tributary Area Method can also be used to optimize veneer design beyond prescriptive requirements through decreasing veneer tie quantities and lowering installation labor. The optimization savings can be applied to reduce construction cost or reinvested into improved materials such as stainless-steel tie components over galvanized steel. We will briefly discuss the new engineered masonry veneer code requirements, review the applications for anchored masonry veneer, and explore the benefits to owner, designer, contractor, and manufacturer when utilizing the engineered design requirements; this paper will contribute to expanding knowledge within the masonry industry and look ahead to future opportunities for industry advancement.