Long, horizontal bands of windows separated by long, narrow brick spandrels-the building design is now common, but detailing the brick spandrels can be challenging. CONCRETE OR STEEL FRAME For concrete frames, the brick spandrel is supported by steel shelf angles bolted to the concrete spandrel beam. If deep brick spandrels must be supported on a concrete frame, a steel support system can be suspended from each concrete spandrel, instead of forming deep concrete spandrels. A steel-frame structure offers more flexibility: designers can choose narrow, mid-depth, or deep brick spandrels. Detailing and construction, however, are complicated. PREFABRICATION Possibly the easiest way to construct brick spandrels is to prefabricate them onsite or in a plant. KEEPING THE WATER OUT To prevent water from entering the building, brick spandrels should be detailed as cavity walls.