Masonry support systems are generally used on alternative floors on buildings over 12 m in height but sometimes require support at every level depending on the specific application.

The usual applications are:

• Brickwork
• GRC Stonework in conjunction with Brickwork

The FMS system can be engineered to accommodate cavity depths of up to 300mm and loads of up to 45 kN/m.

If you need a solution for cavities over 300mm or loads of more than 45kN/m, get in touch with the FIRMA technical team.

The FIRMA® FMS Masonry Support System is a bespoke welded stainless steel angle and bracket system engineered to support masonry façades and transfer loads back to the primary structure, whether concrete or steel. The system is designed to accommodate a wide range of cavity widths, loadings, and façade geometries, while allowing for typical building tolerances and on site adjustment.

FMS masonry support systems are designed to work in coordination with horizontal movement joints, accommodating thermal expansion, shrinkage, and differential movement between the masonry and the structural frame. Systems are typically used at alternate floor levels on buildings over 12m in height, although support may be required at every level depending on project specific structural and façade requirements.

The FMS system is suitable for cavity depths typically ranging from 40 mm to 300 mm and is engineered to support masonry loads generally between 2 kN/m and 18 kN/m, subject to project specific design and structural verification. Each system is custom designed using FIRMA’s Made Simple® methodology, combining standardised components into a project specific solution supported by calculations, layouts, and detailed drawings.

FMS masonry support is supplied as a complete package, including stainless steel support assemblies, brackets, fixings, shims, and FIRMA Therm™ thermal shims, to simplify specification and installation on site.

The FMS system is available in the following configurations to suit a wide range of façade and structural conditions:

FMS Standard Configuration (FMS)

For typical masonry support applications where standard cavity widths and load paths are required.

FMS Projecting Configuration (FMS/P)

Designed to provide increased projection to accommodate deeper cavities or façade set backs.

FMS Projecting and Notched Configuration (FMS/PN)

Used where increased projection is required while avoiding clashes with SFS or other secondary structural elements.

FMS Inverted Configuration (FMS/I)

Suitable where masonry support is required above slab level or close to the top of the structural slab, with the support angle inverted to suit the load path and geometry.

FMS Reversed Angle Configuration (FMS/RA)

Designed for applications requiring a reversed angle arrangement due to specific façade or structural constraints.

Masonry support systems are manufactured to suit both standard and bespoke applications. FIRMA provides project specific technical support including 3D models, calculations, layouts, and schedules to support coordination and structural design compliance.

Features and benefits

• UKCA, CE, and UKNI marked.
• Designed in accordance with EN 1993 Eurocode 3 and manufactured to EN 1090 Execution Class 2.
• In line with NHBC technical requirements.
• FIRMA Therm™ thermal shims are provided to act as a thermal break between the bracket and substrate
• Manufactured from non combustible stainless steel, suitable for use on buildings with non combustible façade requirements.
• Compatible with cast in channels or post fixed solutions for concrete and steel frames.