Which material is primarily used in masonry veneer construction?

In masonry veneer construction, brick is primarily used because it offers several key advantages. Brick is a durable and weather-resistant material that can effectively provide a structural facade while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a building. It is also low-maintenance, making it a practical choice for exterior applications. Additionally, brick has excellent thermal mass properties, which can contribute to energy efficiency in buildings by helping to regulate temperature.

The use of brick in masonry veneer allows for a lightweight installation compared to solid brick walls, as the veneer is typically just a single layer of bricks attached to the structural frame of the building. This method provides the appearance of solid masonry without the need for the additional structural support that solid bricks would require.

The other materials mentioned, such as wood, concrete, and steel, while essential in their own contexts, do not serve as the primary material for masonry veneer construction. Wood is typically used in framing and siding, concrete is more common in structural applications, and steel is often employed for frameworks or reinforcements rather than as a veneer finish.