Masonry anchors secure masonry to structural framing or supporting construction, such as a wall, floor, beam, or column. Individual ties, anchors, and inserts are available in galvanized steel, stainless steel and epoxy-coated steel. Building codes may determine the forces that need to be accommodated and the spacing of anchors.

Masonry anchorage and reinforcing perform the critical function of adding strength to masonry, either by transferring forces to the structure or by directly contributing resistance to applied loads. These systems are usually concealed within the masonry and therefore must be selected to resist corrosion, which could lead to catastrophic failure. Replacement of materials built into or embedded in masonry work is a very expensive and disruptive process.