Masonry Cavity Walls

A masonry cavity wall consists of two wythes—an outer wythe and an inner wythe—separated by a hollow space. These wythes are connected using corrosion-resistant masonry ties that provide structural stability. The cavity between them serves multiple functions, including moisture management, insulation placement, and utility distribution.

When water penetrates the outer wythe, it enters the cavity and is collected by flashing, an impervious membrane installed at the cavity's bottom. The water then drains out through weep holes. Dampproofing material applied to the cavity side of the inner wythe prevents water from reaching interior spaces and also functions as an air barrier, protecting the building from moisture damage.

Debris like mortar droppings can block the drainage system, preventing water from exiting through weep holes and compromising the wall's moisture protection. Using mortar deflection material or beveled bed joints helps prevent mortar from entering the cavity. Traditional practices involved placing steel ties to catch droppings, which are then removed, but modern deflection methods are more effective and easier to implement.

In load-bearing cavity walls, the inner wythe supports structural loads while the outer wythe functions as a nonstructural veneer. In non-load-bearing cavity walls, the inner wythe provides only lateral support to the outer wythe through masonry ties, supporting only its own weight. Both configurations use corrosion-resistant ties to maintain structural connection between the wythes.

Rigid foam plastic insulating boards can be inserted within the cavity space to provide thermal insulation and mitigate heat transfer through the wall assembly. This placement leverages the existing hollow space without requiring additional structural modifications, making it an efficient method for improving the building's energy performance while maintaining the cavity's drainage and moisture management functions.

Beyond moisture management, the cavity facilitates sound insulation, reducing noise transmission through the wall. It also provides space for placing conduits and utilities for building distribution systems. The hollow space allows for flexible routing of electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems without compromising the structural integrity of the masonry wythes.

Corrosion-resistant masonry ties connect the outer and inner wythes, providing essential structural stability and lateral support. In non-load-bearing walls, ties support the outer wythe's weight and resist lateral forces. Their corrosion resistance ensures long-term durability and prevents deterioration that could compromise the wall's structural integrity and the connection between wythes.