Lateral Support

Structural bracing that prevents masonry walls from bowing, buckling, or collapsing under horizontal forces like wind pressure, soil pressure, or seismic loads. In masonry construction, lateral support comes from floor and roof diaphragms, intersecting walls, pilasters, or buttresses that tie walls together. Ontario's tall masonry walls require lateral support at specific height intervals based on wall thickness and construction type. Historic brick buildings often show signs of inadequate lateral support through bulging walls or separated corners. Remediation may include installing steel tie rods, rebuilding corners with proper bonding, or adding steel plates anchored through the wall to interior framing.