The base flashing must extend from the outside face of the wall over the top of the ledge and at least 150 mm (6 in.) up the wall behind the sheathing paper. Use corrosion-resistant metal ties nailed to the studs and embedded in the mortar joints between the masonry to tie the veneer to the framework. When fastened to every other stud, they are usually spaced 800 mm (32 in.) apart horizontally and 400 mm (16 in.) vertically. Alternatively, when fastened to every stud, they may be spaced 600 mm (24 in.) horizontally and 500 mm (20 in.) vertically, or 400 mm (16 in.) horizontally and 600 mm (24 in.) vertically, depending on the stud spacing. Mortar mix proportions should conform to those shown in Table 6 (p. 266). Lay brick or stone in a full bed of mortar. Ensure mortar does not drop into the space between the veneer and sheathing where it will obstruct the cavity behind the veneer. Tool outside joints to a smooth finish to provide maximum resistance to water penetration. Weep holes serve both venting and drainage functions. They should be placed not more than 800 mm (32 in.) apart in the bottom course of the masonry veneer and above-grade windows and doors. This can be done by omitting part of the mortar from the vertical joints, or by inserting plastic tubes in the joints. Masonry veneer should be at least 75 mm (23⁄4 in.) thick and masonry less than 90 mm (31⁄2 in.) thick must have unraked joints. Bricks should be hard, absorb little water and be manufactured for exposure to the weather. Stone veneers should be materials that are known to be durable. Masonry laid during cold weather should be protected from freezing until after the mortar has set. The temperature of the masonry and mortar should be maintained above 5°C (41°F) for at least 24 hours after installation. Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) are products for cladding exterior walls. These cladding systems integrate insulation with a stucco-like covering. However, EIFS differ from stucco in many respects. EIFS incorporate proprietary constituent components that have been developed and tested to be compatible and to fulfill specific building envelope performance requirements. The fact that the term EIFS includes the word “system” is important to note. Proprietary EIFS rely on their components to interact and perform as a composite system. This is unique in comparison to most other cladding materials. In addition to the ability to provide various forms and finishes, consider the performance capabilities offered by EIFS, and select systems from manufacturers that incorporate features that meet the project requirements. Considerations include fire safety, thermal resistance, resistance to rain penetration, interior air and moisture control, impact resistance, and other aspects of durability. EIFS incorporate the following components: insulation board fastened mechanically and/or with an adhesive; base coat with reinforcement (such as alkali-resistant glass fibre or coated glass mesh), which typically adheres to the insulation but is sometimes mechanically fastened; surface finish, sometimes with a primer, adhered to the base coat; and joint treatments, drainage accessories, seals and sealants may also form part of the system.