For strand wire veneer ties, which gauge should be used?

When considering strand wire veneer ties, the No. 9 gauge is specified typically for its balance of strength and ease of handling. This gauge provides adequate structural support for securing veneer to framing while minimizing the risk of overloading the system, which can happen with thicker gauges. Additionally, No. 9 gauge wire offers sufficient flexibility to allow for some adjustment during installation, which can be critical when achieving a proper fit in various construction scenarios.

Using a wire gauge that is too thick could create complications with installation and may not be necessary for the required load-bearing capacity of veneer ties. In contrast, a wire that is too thin might not provide enough strength or could fail during the lifecycle of the structure, leading to potential safety issues. Thus, No. 9 gauge serves as a standard in the industry for optimal performance when utilizing strand wire veneer ties.