Understanding Common Masonry: Beyond Bricks and Mortar

As a professional in the construction industry, common masonry or brickwork is far more than just a simple process of laying bricks. This term specifically refers to a type of construction work designed to be hidden behind a final layer, such as plaster, concrete, or other materials. Let's delve deeper into what common masonry entails and its importance in the building process.

Definition and Purpose of Common Masonry

Common masonry often refers to the structural elements of a building that are not exposed to view. These elements are crucial for the integrity and stability of the structure but do not need to be aesthetically pleasing. Tradespeople like bricklayers play a vital role in creating these hidden masonry walls, floors, and foundations. The focus is primarily on functionality and support rather than appearance.

Types of Common Masonry

Walls

Common masonry can include the construction of load-bearing walls or walls that support the structure. These walls are designed to transfer the weight of the building to the foundation and are a critical component of any construction project. In multi-story buildings, these walls might be constructed with load-bearing bricks or other materials, depending on the design and load requirements.

Floors

In large-scale construction projects, masonry is often used for creating subfloors, which are then covered with additional materials like concrete or flooring. These hidden masonry floors provide a stable and strong base upon which other building components can be constructed. The stability and strength of the masonry floor are crucial for ensuring the overall integrity of the building.

Foundations

The base of any structure, the foundation, is made with hidden masonry. Foundations provide the initial support for the building, and they must be strong and stable to prevent settling or movement over time. Foundations can be constructed in various ways, depending on the site conditions, including reinforced concrete, brick, or even stone.

Materials and Techniques Used in Common Masonry

Materials

The most common materials used in common masonry are bricks and mortar. Bricks are standardized blocks made from clay, sand, and sometimes cement, which are fired in a kiln to harden them. Mortar is a mixture of cement, lime, sand, and water that binds the bricks together. Additionally, concrete blocks are also used in some construction projects, particularly for non-load-bearing walls or infill walls.

Techniques

The techniques used in common masonry are similar to those in other bricklaying processes. However, the focus is on the quality of the work, which does not need to be visible. Common techniques include:

Leveling and positioning: Ensuring that the bricks or blocks are correctly aligned and positioned to create a level and stable structure. Preparing the mortar bed: Creating a thick layer of mortar on the wall surface to ensure proper adhesion of the bricks. Coursing: Organizing the bricks in specific courses to ensure the structure is stable and durable. Wetting the bricks: Moistening the bricks before laying them to prevent dust from flying and to improve the bond between the mortar and the bricks.

These techniques are critical to creating a strong and durable structure that can support the weight of the building and resist the forces of nature.

Applications and Benefits of Common Masonry

Common masonry is widely used in construction for several reasons:

Structural strength: Hidden masonry provides stability and support for the building, ensuring that it can withstand the weight of the structure and any additional loads. Cost-effective: Using hidden masonry can be more cost-effective than using visible decorative materials, making construction projects more budget-friendly. Yielding more floors: By using hidden masonry for walls, subfloors, and foundations, more floors can be added without compromising the building's stability. Environmental sustainability: Using locally sourced materials and energy-efficient techniques in hidden masonry can contribute to a building's overall sustainability.

Challenges and Considerations in Common Masonry

Like any construction process, common masonry has its challenges and considerations:

Weather conditions: Working with wet mortar and bricks in wet conditions can lead to issues with adhesion and stability. Quality control: Ensuring that the quality of the mortar and bricks is consistent throughout the construction process is crucial to the success of the structure. Health and safety: Working with bricks and mortar can be physically demanding and dangerous without proper safety equipment and procedures. Coordination with other trades: Common masonry must be properly coordinated with other trades, such as electrical and plumbing, to ensure that the hidden elements of the building are properly installed and integrated.

Professional bricklayers and masons play a crucial role in the construction process by ensuring that common masonry is done correctly. Their skills and expertise are essential for creating strong, stable, and durable structures that can withstand the test of time.

Conclusion

Common masonry, while often unseen, is a vital aspect of construction that ensures buildings are structurally sound, stable, and safe. As a professional in this field, it is essential to have a deep understanding of the techniques and materials used to create these hidden yet critical components. By focusing on functionality and durability, common masonry contributes to the overall success of any construction project.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between common masonry and decorative masonry?

The primary difference between common and decorative masonry lies in their purpose and appearance. Common masonry is designed to be hidden behind other materials and focuses on strength and stability, while decorative masonry is used for aesthetic appeal and visible surfaces, such as exterior walls, chimneys, and garden walls.

What type of bricks are commonly used in common masonry?

Common masonry typically uses standard bricks made from clay, sand, and sometimes cement. These bricks are fired in a kiln to harden them and are highly durable and resistant to weather conditions.

How is the quality of common masonry controlled during construction?

Quality control in common masonry is achieved through meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the mortar and bricks are properly mixed, applied, and aligned. Regular inspections and adherence to industry standards and regulations are also essential to ensure the quality of the work.