What type of materials must be used for brick ties in construction?

Brick ties are critical components in masonry construction, especially for ensuring the stability and structural integrity of brick veneer walls. The correct choice of materials for these ties is typically steel. Steel ties provide the necessary strength and durability to withstand the stresses imposed by the veneer, including wind loads and thermal expansion.

Steel is favored due to its high tensile strength and ability to resist deformation under load. It also offers good resistance to corrosion when properly coated, making it suitable for use in various environmental conditions.

While other materials like aluminum or fiberglass can be used in specific applications, they may not provide the same level of strength and durability as steel ties in most standard construction scenarios. Metal ties, although a broader category, usually refer to steel, which is the common and accepted material for this specific application in the construction industry.