Masonry aims to awaken higher faculties of the soul, endowing their possessor with “light in the form of new and enhanced awareness.” It promotes a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.
Performing a comprehensive condition assessment is important for identifying and prioritizing repair and treatment options. Without one, damage and deterioration can continue to progress.
Strength
Masonry provides excellent compressive strength for the load-bearing components of buildings. In addition, masonry construction offers good fire resistance, acoustic performance, and thermal mass. It also has the ability to be formed into curved walls and other shapes. A person who constructs masonry is called a mason or bricklayer.
In a masonry structure, load transfer is accomplished through the bond between the masonry units and the mortar layer. Load transfer through the mortar layer is influenced by the strength of the brick, the porosity of the brick, the roughness of the surface of the brick and the mortar, as well as by the permeability of the masonry. In general, the permeability of the mortar increases with the mortar strength. This is attributed to the fact that debonding stress (between the brick and the mortar) increases with an increase in the mortar strength.
Consequently, the prism test method (as required by MSJC) more reliably portrays actual construction and verifies the compliance of f values in masonry designed using the strength design method rather than unit strength testing. Prism testing may require a bit more coordination in project management, but it is the best way to ensure that full values of’m are realized in masonry structures.
To take a prism sample from an existing wall, the condition of the walls must lend itself to reliable specimen removal and transportation back to the laboratory intact. For example, a wall with very poor bond between masonry units and mortar will be difficult to remove and transport without damage. In these cases, in situ tests using stainless steel hydraulic bladders, or flatjacks, inserted into the wall and pressurized are often used.
Durability
Masonry buildings have a reputation for longevity, and they tend to last for centuries with minimal maintenance. Their inherent strength and resistance to weathering, fire, pests, and other natural occurrences contribute to this longevity. Nevertheless, the longevity of masonry structures is dependent on preventative maintenance and inspections. Some of the most important things building owners and maintenance professionals can do to protect brick and stone masonry is to ensure proper drainage, moisture management, and regular inspections.
Brick and stone masonry is incredibly durable, but it does require some maintenance to keep it looking beautiful and structurally sound for the long term. One of the main culprits of masonry damage is moisture intrusion, and it can lead to a variety of complications including efflorescence, spalling bricks, and cracking.
Proper insulation is another crucial aspect of ensuring the durability of a masonry structure. Insulation helps to regulate the temperature inside the building and reduce energy costs, and it can also help prevent mold and mildew growth.
Moisture can enter masonry through air, which is why it’s essential to install vents in any room that may contain brick or stone. It’s also critical to ensure that your masonry is properly sealed and that any caulking or sealant is renewed periodically.
Aesthetics
Masonry is a beautiful construction technique that offers a range of aesthetic options. It is ideal for building structures that incorporate cultural or architectural traditions. Many masons also specialize in historic preservation, which helps to protect and preserve older brick structures. Modern masons have embraced technology and innovative materials to improve their craft, providing new options for builders. These advancements allow for faster project timelines and increased structural performance. They are also aligned with contemporary demands for sustainable construction practices.
Masonry has a long history of use, from ancient civilizations to the earliest Industrial Revolution buildings. The Renaissance brought renewed interest in classical architecture, introducing techniques such as keystones to distribute weight evenly and create more detailed arches. The Industrial Revolution introduced steam-powered machinery and uniform brick production, allowing for larger, more complex building structures.
Stone masonry uses natural stones to build robust and visually striking structures. These structures can last for centuries and require minimal maintenance, making them a smart choice for building exteriors, retaining walls, and landscaping features. Masonry also provides several environmental benefits, such as energy efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint.
When choosing a brick material for your next masonry project, consider its durability, aesthetics, and environmental conditions. Consulting with a professional mason or construction expert can help you make an informed decision that meets your design goals and building requirements. For example, a concrete masonry wall may interact with sunlight and present different color variations as it changes throughout the day. A proper curing and cleaning process can help prevent this effect from occurring.
Sustainability
Masonry offers a range of eco-friendly benefits to the environment. Using sustainable materials and construction methods minimizes the building’s environmental impact, reduces energy consumption, and supports a circular economy through recycling or repurposing of materials. This approach also helps achieve green certifications, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).
In addition to utilizing recycled materials, many CMU manufacturers now offer brick made with fly ash from coal power plants, as well as hempcrete made of compacted natural soil. These alternative brick options require less energy to produce and reduce waste by reducing the amount of cement required.
Concrete masonry also has a low life-cycle cost because it requires minimal materials and energy during construction and throughout its service life. It is also more resilient to natural and man-made disasters, which can help reduce construction costs.
As the focus of sustainability moves beyond energy efficiency, new programs are focused on occupant health and well-being. Masonry’s non-toxic characteristics can improve indoor air quality, which is important for occupant comfort and productivity. Additionally, acoustical masonry can absorb and control noise pollution, which is particularly important in areas with high levels of traffic or activity.