What is typically present between the brick veneer and the structural wall?

The space typically present between the brick veneer and the structural wall is an air gap. This air gap serves several important purposes in construction. Firstly, it allows for proper drainage and ventilation, which helps to manage moisture that may accumulate behind the brick veneer. If water gets in, it can travel down through the air gap to weep holes at the base of the brick wall, reducing the risk of water damage to the structural walls.

Additionally, the air gap can help with temperature regulation, as it provides a buffer that can reduce heat transfer between the exterior brick and the interior structure, contributing to building energy efficiency. It's essential for maintaining the integrity of both the veneer and the structural wall, as it decreases the potential for conditions that could lead to mold or decay.

Other components, such as moisture barriers and thermal insulation, may be utilized in various aspects of building design, but they do not serve the same fundamental role as the air gap does in promoting drainage and airflow. Structural support, while necessary in a building's design, is not specifically positioned between the brick veneer and the structural wall like the air gap is.