In a masonry cavity wall, what is the maximum horizontal distance between metal ties?

In a masonry cavity wall, what is the maximum horizontal distance between metal ties?

• A. 42
• B. 36
• C. 24
• D. 30

Answer: (B)

Metal ties in a masonry cavity wall are there to keep the inner and outer leaves working together. They transfer wind and other lateral forces across the cavity and prevent bulging or separation of the leaves, while also helping to maintain the cavity width and alignment. Because these ties must hold the skins together over the wall length, there’s a maximum spacing to ensure the forces can be transferred effectively and the wall remains stable. The maximum horizontal distance commonly allowed is 36 inches, which provides enough ties to restrain movement without overdoing the tie count. Spacing farther apart, like 42 inches, could let the leaves move independently under load, while smaller spacings (24 or 30 inches) are more conservative but still within the limit—the question asks for the largest permissible spacing.

Metal ties in a masonry cavity wall are there to keep the inner and outer leaves working together. They transfer wind and other lateral forces across the cavity and prevent bulging or separation of the leaves, while also helping to maintain the cavity width and alignment. Because these ties must hold the skins together over the wall length, there’s a maximum spacing to ensure the forces can be transferred effectively and the wall remains stable. The maximum horizontal distance commonly allowed is 36 inches, which provides enough ties to restrain movement without overdoing the tie count. Spacing farther apart, like 42 inches, could let the leaves move independently under load, while smaller spacings (24 or 30 inches) are more conservative but still within the limit—the question asks for the largest permissible spacing.