Brick veneer relies on which load for support?

• A. Its Own Weight
• B. The Interior Drywall
• C. The Foundation
• D. The Roof Structure

Answer: (A)

Brick veneer is an exterior finish that does not carry the building’s vertical loads. The actual structure behind it—the backup wall and the framing—supports the roof and floors, while the veneer is attached to that backing with ties. The load the veneer itself must manage is its own gravity load—the weight of the bricks. That self-weight presses downward against the backup wall, and the ties and backing transfer that load down to the foundation. So, when considering what load the veneer relies on, its own weight is the primary factor. The interior drywall, foundation, and roof structure are part of the overall system, but they do not provide the veneer’s primary support.