Masonry Magazine December 1987 Page. 21
BIA Technical Notes
on Brick Construction
Brick Institute of America 11490 Commerce Park Drive, Reston, Virginia 22091
44A
May
1986
FASTENERS FOR BRICK MASONRY
Abstract: Fasteners are used extensively in brick masonry construction to attach fixtures, equipment and other objects. This Technical Notes discusses the different types of fasteners used in brick masonry construction, their applications, appropriate fastener selection based on brick type, fixture weight, environmental exposure and aesthetics.
Key Words: adhesives, bolts, brick, fasteners, fixtures, hardware, masonry, screws.
Brick Institute of America
May 1986
0000
4d BRICK
MASONRY
4X FA
MASONRY ACCESSORIES
FASTENERS AND ADHESIVES
INTRODUCTION
This Technical Notes is the second in a series that addresses brick masonry anchor bolts, fasteners and ties. The term "fastener", as used in this text, refers to devices for securing equipment, fixtures or other objects to brick masonry. This Technical Notes discusses the different fastener types used to attach these items to brick masonry.
When other materials, fixtures, etc., are to be attached to brick masonry, the procedure is relatively simple and can be executed either during or after construction. The designer or builder has a wide variety of fastening methods from which to choose. The final selection will depend largely upon what is to be attached, when it will be attached and the type of brick used in the construction.
TYPES OF FASTENERS
Fasteners can be divided into two general categories: those installed during the construction of the masonry, and those that are installed after the completion of the masonry work.
Fasteners Installed During Construction
Nailing Blocks and Wall Plugs. Wooden nailing blocks and metal wall plugs are placed in mortar joints as the brick are laid (see Figure 1). Wooden nailing blocks are not used today as frequently as they were in the past, but do provide an acceptable means of attachment to brick masonry walls. If wooden blocks are used, they should be of seasoned soft wood to prevent shrinkage and treated to inhibit deterioration. Wooden blocks should be placed only in head joints.
Metal wall plugs are made of galvanized metal, and may contain wooden or fiber inserts. Metal plugs are preferred over wooden blocks since problems with shrinkage and decay are not associated with metal plugs. Metal plugs may be placed in either head joints or bed joints of masonry.
The primary consideration when using fasteners installed during construction is location. Their exact location is not a serious problem when used to attach moldings, such as A) METAL WALL PLUGS B) WOODEN NAILING BLOCKS Fasteners Installed During Construction FIG. 1 baseboards, chair rails, etc., but it may be difficult to predetermine fastener locations for fixtures, cabinets, shelving, etc. For this reason, post-construction fasteners have virtually replaced wooden blocks and metal nailing plugs for fastening to masonry.
Post-Construction Fasteners
Screw Shields and Plugs. Screw shields and plugs are produced in plastic, fiber, rubber, nylon and lead (see Fig. 2). Some are advertised by their manufacturers as vibration-resistant, chemical-resistant or water-resistant. These fasteners are generally used for lightweight attachments and are typically installed in mortar joints or may be placed directly into solid masonry units (see Fig. 3).
Bolts and Screws. Several types of bolts and screws are available for use in both solid and hollow masonry. These