Serviceability limits in building codes aim to achieve certain levels of performance by employing “user friendly”criteria such as deflection limits for the supporting structure. In the case of exterior wall assemblies and finishes,the out-of-plane deflection limit is intended to reduce system vulnerability due to excessive water leakage fromflexural cracking. The deflection limits proposed in various references suggest conservative limits based on testing that should be carefully evaluated. The authors intend to evaluate deflection limits for wood stud walls predicated on defined performance goals and explore morecost-effective and sustainable methods for achieving adefined performance. This article will examine the historic and existing deflection limits for brick veneer walls, howeffective they are at achieving their intended purpose ofreducing system vulnerability to moisture intrusion, andcost-effective and sustainable solutions for achieving adefined performance.
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