IMI Webinar Series - Reaching New Heights: Tall Veneers with Masonry
In contemporary mid-rise and low-rise multifamily construction, brick masonry veneer continues to be a sought-after design choice for its durability, timeless appearance, and performance. However, as building heights increase, whether through multiple stories of wood framing over a concrete podium, cold-formed metal structures, or other hybrid systems, the challenges of supporting and detailing masonry veneer become more complex.
This presentation reviews key structural considerations for designing and supporting brick masonry veneer, including code-based height limitations, movement accommodation between the veneer and backup wall, and coordination of attachment methods across framing types. Emphasis will be placed on preventing cracking, displacement, and water intrusion through proper detailing and integration of structural and building envelope systems to maintain design intent and long-term performance.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify code-based height limitations for brick masonry veneer over wood, cold-formed metal, and other structural backup wall systems.
- Evaluate attachment methods and material selections that ensure code compliance, safety, and durability across various framing systems.
- Understand differential movement between veneer and backup systems to prevent distress and maintain performance.
- Coordinate detailing between structural and building envelope trades to ensure durable, resilient, and code-compliant veneer systems.
About the Speaker:
Rebecca Herkes
Senior Project Manager in Simpson Gumpertz & Heger's (SGH) Chicago Office, Technology Division
Rebecca has over ten years of building enclosure consulting experience with SGH and two years of construction management experience as an owner’s representative. Rebecca has managed SGH projects, including building enclosure consulting for new construction, investigating building enclosure failures or non-performance, and repairing or rehabilitating existing building enclosures.
About the Speaker:
Peter M. Babaian
Building Technology Division Head for Simpson Gumpertz & Heger's (SGH) Chicago Office
Peter has over twenty years of experience designing, investigating, and rehabilitating a variety of building enclosures and structures. Peter's projects involve exterior enclosure consulting for new construction, rehabilitating existing structures and enclosures, historic preservation, building enclosure commissioning, investigating non-performing building enclosures, and providing expert services related to construction litigation. Peter is the President of The Masonry Society and serves on the Board of Directors. He is also on the Board of Directors of the Chicago Building Congress.