Construction site advice: what determines the quality of a façade?
The quality of a façade does not depend solely on the brick. Design, construction, craftsmanship and choice of materials all play a part. And each of these aspects falls under the responsibility of a different party. On this page, we explain who is responsible for what within a construction project, which factors influence the final result of a façade, and what you, as a building owner or client, can do yourself to prevent problems.
Who is responsible for what?
A façade project always involves several parties, each with their own role and responsibilities.
MBI De Steenmeesters
MBI De Steenmeesters supplies facing bricks that comply with the applicable specifications and product characteristics. We are responsible for the product quality of the bricks supplied.
Architect and designer
The architect translates your requirements into a technical design. The façade layout, detailing, water drainage, ventilation provisions and aesthetic choices are determined at this stage.
Structural engineer
The structural engineer is responsible for the structural safety and stability of the building, including movements, settlement and stresses within the structure.
Contractor and bricklayer
The contractor and bricklayer are responsible for the correct execution of the work: handling of materials, expansion joints, ventilation systems, drainage, and bricklaying and pointing in accordance with applicable regulations and project-specific requirements.
What factors influence the final appearance of a façade?
1. Expansion joints and movement within the building
Every building moves as a result of temperature variations, shrinkage, expansion and settlement. Expansion joints accommodate these movements. If they are missing, incorrectly positioned or do not function properly, cracks may develop in the masonry.
The necessity, position and design of expansion joints are determined by the design and construction teams. Architects, contractors and suppliers can request expansion joint advice from us free of charge after placing an order. This helps prevent many problems before they arise. You can find the request form on our expansion joint advice page.
2. Structural stresses and settlement
Even with correctly installed expansion joints, cracks can still occur due to structural stresses or settlement. Assessing these causes falls within the remit of the structural engineer, architect and contractor.
3. Ventilation and water management
A properly functioning façade requires the façade structure to be constructed correctly. Ventilation, drainage, moisture transport and water runoff play a key role in this. If these factors are not adequately taken into account in the design or construction, this can result in soiling, damp problems or aesthetic defects.
4. Brickwork and jointing
The appearance and durability of a façade are greatly influenced by the quality of the brickwork and jointing. Workmanship, weather conditions during construction, the quality of the joints, detailing and craftsmanship all have a direct impact on the final result.
What can you do as a building owner or client?
Good preparation prevents most problems. Before work begins, discuss the following topics with your architect and builder:
- Facade design and detailing
- Position and construction of expansion joints
- Ventilation arrangements for the facade
- Water drainage and moisture control
- Installation instructions for the materials used
- Execution of bricklaying and jointing work
- Quality control during construction
Good coordination between all parties involved is the best investment you can make as a client.
Tip: Build a test wall to align the client’s and contractor’s expectations regarding the execution of the work.
Important to note
MBI De Steenmeesters supplies facing bricks and does not supervise the execution of individual construction projects. We are not involved in the structural design, architectural detailing or day-to-day work on the building site. We accept no responsibility for design choices, structural solutions, construction methods or site conditions that are beyond our control. If you have any questions regarding construction, detailing or execution, please contact your architect, structural engineer or contractor. They are best placed to assess project-specific situations.
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