ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the results of tests on the impact of reinforcement on the appearance of cracks and on the way of damaging spandrel panel walls made of sand-lime blocks. The maximum increase of cracking stress in the reinforced walls was almost 70% in comparison to non-reinforced models. The impact of the openings on the load-bearing capacity, deformability and cracking of walls was observed practically from the beginning of conducted tests on masonry walls. The propagation of oblique cracks often took place from the corner which was the place of connection of the upper and lower part of the model. The very analysis of the relationships of cracking stress to maximum stress may be slightly confusing as non-reinforced and reinforced walls were damaged at various vertical load. The average level of stresses at which cracking of non-reinforced walls took place is 41% of stresses which destroy the models.
