How is a brick veneer wall different from a load-bearing brick wall?

The primary difference between a load-bearing brick wall and a brick veneer wall lies in their structural function within a building.1

Load-Bearing Brick Walls

A load-bearing wall is a structural component designed to support the weight of a building, including floors, roofs, equipment, and occupants. These walls are engineered to resist various forces, such as dead and live loads, and may be constructed using reinforced brickwork or traditional masonry techniques. Historically, these walls were built very thick to maintain stability, but modern engineering allows for thinner, cost-effective load-bearing walls in high-rise structures.23

Brick Veneer Walls

In contrast, a veneer wall is a non-structural facing that carries no weight other than its own. It is typically fastened to a separate backing material, such as a wood frame, and does not act in conjunction with that backing to support the building's structure. While a load-bearing wall is essential to the building's integrity, a brick veneer serves primarily as an exterior finish or protective layer.45