What is the minimum thickness of a solid masonry wall for one-story dwellings and garages?

In the context of North Carolina's Residential Code, the minimum thickness of a solid masonry wall for one-story dwellings and garages is established to ensure structural integrity and appropriate performance. A thickness of 6 inches is specified as the minimum because it provides the necessary strength and load-bearing capacity for the wall, accommodating factors such as the weight of the roof, potential wind loads, and other environmental forces acting on the structure.

The code carefully considers the types of materials and construction methods, and a thickness of 6 inches is deemed adequate to meet safety and durability standards. This thickness helps prevent issues like cracking and bowing under stress, ensuring the wall maintains its structural function over time.

Thinner walls may not be able to safely support the loads or may lack sufficient thermal mass, which can impact energy efficiency and overall comfort within the building. The code thus sets this thickness as a baseline to safeguard against potential structural failures.