Experimental evaluation of the enhanced panelized brick veneer over steel stud wall system for out-of-plane loading

There has been a significant effort to design and construct multi-hazard resistant buildings in recent years, but the emphasis has been more on structural systems. A study has been undergoing at The Pennsylvania State University to develop a multi-hazard resistant brick veneer wall system, normally considered a nonstructural component as it does not participate in gravity or lateral load resisting system. However, since brick veneer walls are part of the building envelope system, they are quite vulnerable to various loading regimes. The study reported in this paper is an enhancement of an original concept that developed a panelized brick veneer over steel stud wall system to resist high wind and seismic effects. The enhancement concepts discussed are aimed at providing improved performance under extreme out-of-plane loading conditions. Full-scale static air bladder pressure tests were performed on four different mockups to investigate the beneficial effects of seismic veneer anchor ties, steel reinforcement in the brick veneer, use of sheet metal over steel studs, and use of composite sheet metal/gypsum boards as sheathing over steel studs. Details of the testing program and experimental results are presented. It is shown that the enhancement techniques result in a modest increase in strength and good composite action between the brick veneer and the combination of steel stud and the sheathings added.