Barrier Masonry Walls
Most masonry used throughout history was built as a barrier wall, relying on the wall's mass and completely filled mortar joints to resist water penetration. The modern masonry barrier wall is often single wythe construction where the exterior surface is designed to resist weather penetration. Concrete masonry units as well as hollow clay masonry units are used to construct these types of structures. Different surface treatments are used to assist in creating the barrier such as opaque elastomeric coatings and clear water repellants. Additionally, the use of integral water repellants in the concrete masonry units as well as in the mortar has proven beneficial in reducing moisture penetration.
