Masonry Bed Joint Reinforcement Guide

Masonry bed joint reinforcement is used to reinforce the mortar joints, particularly in areas with higher stress, like window openings. It helps to improve the wall's ability to manage structural loads but does not reduce the need for movement joints.

Movement joints help control expansion and contraction in a masonry wall, preventing cracking. Bed joint reinforcement is not a replacement for movement joints; it only reinforces critical locations within the wall.

Factors that affect the likelihood of cracks in a masonry wall include the wall's length, length-to-height ratio, and the presence and size of openings.

The spacing of movement joints in a masonry wall must be carefully calculated to prevent cracking. Consulting a qualified engineer is recommended when increasing movement joint spacing.

PD 6697 provides guidance on designing masonry structures, including recommendations on appropriate movement joint spacing and bed joint reinforcement.

When using bed joint reinforcement in masonry walls, it's important to follow recommendations from the manufacturer and adhere to design principles outlined in PD 6697, which provides specific guidance on these aspects.

Engineers have the expertise to analyze structural loads, material properties, and potential movement in masonry walls. They can advise on the optimal placement and spacing of both movement joints and bed joint reinforcement to ensure the wall's stability and prevent cracking.

While bed joint reinforcement can improve the local strength of a masonry wall, it does not eliminate the need for properly spaced movement joints. These joints are crucial for accommodating the expansion and contraction of the wall due to temperature fluctuations and other factors.