Smarter Brick Tie

Narrow air spaces behind brick veneer risk being filled up with mortar droppings, which can block airflow and drainage. Simpson Strong-Tie’s new BTH brick tie can connect brick, stone and masonry veneers across spans up to 3 inches, allowing for a wider, more effective space. Fabricated from 22-gauge galvanized steel, it is field-adjustable in two places and can be installed with either side facing up, providing strength and versatility. Tie ends embed in mortar, a minimum of 1 1/2 inches and connect to framing with a single 0.131-by-2 1/2-inch nail. Retail pricing ranges from 18 to 22 cents each, depending on the distributor. Carton quantity is 500. strongtie.com