Masonry is the art and craft of building structures using stone, brick,
concrete block, and other masonry materials, bound together with
mortar. Masonry construction involves the use of these materials to create
walls, foundations, and other structural elements.
Characteristics of Masonry
1. Durability: Masonry structures are known for their durability and can last
for centuries with minimal maintenance.
2. Strength: Masonry structures can withstand heavy loads and stresses,
making them ideal for buildings and other large structures.
3. Fire resistance: Masonry materials are non-combustible, making them
ideal for buildings that require high fire resistance.
4. Low maintenance: Masonry structures require minimal maintenance, as
they are resistant to pests, mold, and mildew.
Types of Masonry
1. Brick masonry: Uses bricks as the primary building material.
2. Stone masonry: Uses natural stone as the primary building material.
3. Concrete masonry: Uses concrete blocks as the primary building
material.
4. Glass block masonry: Uses glass blocks as the primary building
material.
Applications of Masonry
1. Building construction: Masonry is used in the construction of buildings,
including walls, foundations, and other structural elements.
2. Retaining walls: Masonry is used to build retaining walls, which are used
to hold back soil and prevent erosion.
3. Pavements: Masonry is used to build pavements, including sidewalks,
roads, and other surfaces.
4. Decorative features: Masonry is used to create decorative features,
including arches, columns, and other architectural elements.
Masonry works involve the use of various materials to construct buildings,
walls, and other structures. Here are some common materials used in
masonry works.
Natural Materials
1. Stone: Granite, marble, limestone, sandstone, and slate are popular types
of stone used in masonry.
2. Bricks: Clay bricks, concrete bricks, and fly ash bricks are commonly used.
3. *Mortar*: A mixture of cement, sand, and water used to hold masonry
units together.
# Manufactured Materials
1. *Concrete Blocks*: Hollow or solid blocks made from concrete.
2. *Glass Blocks*: Used for decorative purposes, such as in windows and
walls.
3. *Ceramic Blocks*: Made from ceramic materials, often used for decorative
purposes.
# Binding Materials
1. *Cement*: Portland cement, lime cement, and masonry cement are
commonly used.
2. *Lime*: Used in traditional masonry, lime is a binding agent.
3. *Epoxy*: A strong, two-part adhesive used in some masonry applications.
# Other Materials
1. *Sand*: Used in mortar and as a base material.
2. *Gravel*: Used as a base material or in drainage applications.
3. *Reinforcement*: Steel rebar, wire mesh, or fiberglass mesh used to add
strength to masonry structures.
4. *Sealants*: Used to fill gaps and joints in masonry structures.
5. *Pointing Materials*: Used to fill gaps between masonry units.
These materials are used in various combinations to create strong, durable,
and aesthetically pleasing masonry structures.
