SR53 Seismic performance of masonry veneers and ties (2007)

This report describes the :first stage of an investigation into the performance of masonry veneer on framed backing walls under seismic loading. Both elemental tests on veneer ties and dynamic tests on full-scale walls were carried out.

The report concludes that the current practice. of installing ties by hammering nails into the framing is unsatisfactory and results in poor performance under seismic loading. The report recommends changes in tie installation procedures to overcome this.

A further conclusion is that the criteria for tie performance as currently covered by international standards and the test methods to establish Code compliance are unsatisfactory. Suggested directions for improvement are listed.