Modern masonry veneer systems typically consist of a single wythe or layer of brick, concrete, artificial stone, or natural stone units. These veneers are commonly attached to structures with metal veneer anchors (wall ties) or are adhered with mortar. Masonry veneer failures are not common occurrences during most storm events, including hurricanes that create wind speeds/forces that were accounted for in their design. However, if the attachment of the veneer is deficient or has deteriorated since it was first constructed, even those wind forces during a hurricane which are at or below the level for which a structure was originally designed can cause displacement or even collapse of the masonry (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Veneer failure at a residential structure in Texas from Hurricane Beryl (2024).
One reason that such veneer failure occurs is due to corrosion deterioration of metal anchors (Figure 2). This is of course especially a concern for older veneers, which have experienced a prolonged exposure to the elements. Long-term exposure to moisture can result in anchor corrosion, eventually reducing the capacity of the anchors to resist forces acting perpendicular to the wall, such as wind (Figures 3 and 4).
Figure 2. Corroded and failed anchors at area of collapsed veneer (Hurricane Beryl, 2024).
Figure 3. Brick veneer failure in Mississippi (Hurricane Katrina, 2005). Many of the veneer anchors were severely corroded.
Figure 4. Corrosion of anchor from the wall shown in Figure 3.
Nelson’s team of professionals has extensive experience in the evaluation of common and uncommon mechanisms of veneer failures that can occur during hurricanes and other windstorms.
