What is the term for a single-wythe masonry wall anchored to another wall with an air space?

The term that describes a single-wythe masonry wall that is anchored to another wall with an air space is known as an anchored veneer wall. This type of wall consists typically of a thin layer of masonry units, like bricks, that are attached to a structural backing wall. The air space created between the veneer and the structural wall provides benefits such as moisture control and improved insulation.

The anchoring mechanisms used, often involving metal ties or anchors, secure the veneer to the primary wall but allow for some movement and thermal expansion, reducing the risk of cracking. This design is particularly useful in construction as it combines the aesthetic appeal of masonry with the structural integrity of a supporting wall, while also managing environmental factors that could lead to moisture problems.

In contrast, a load-bearing wall primarily supports the weight of the structure above, a retaining wall is designed to hold back soil or other materials, and a brick wall simply refers to any wall constructed using bricks, without specifying its anchoring or structural characteristics.