Masonry

Lore & Background

Masonry has been practiced since before written history, with early structures relying on the weight of the masonry itself for stability. Over time, techniques evolved with architectural needs and cultural norms. Since the mid-20th century, steel-reinforced elements have been used to carry tension in modern thin, light, tall building systems. Masonry has both structural applications—such as walls, columns, beams, foundations, and load-bearing arches—and non-structural applications like fireplaces, chimneys, and veneer systems. Brick and concrete block are the most common types in industrialized nations. Concrete blocks, especially hollow-core ones, provide great compressive strength and can be filled with concrete or steel reinforcement for greater tensile and lateral strength. Disadvantages include degradation from freeze-thaw cycles, heavy weight requiring stable ground, and limited mechanization. Masonry walls perform poorly in earthquakes due to reliance on weight and loose mortar connections. Dry set masonry relies on friction between interlocking blocks and can forgo mortar entirely.

Reader's Guide

Masonry's significance lies in its ancient origins and continued use as a durable construction method. It has shaped monumental architecture from Egyptian pyramids to medieval cathedrals and remains essential for modern buildings. The craft offers advantages such as high thermal mass, fire resistance, and projectile resistance, but faces challenges from extreme weather, earthquake vulnerability, and labor intensity. The evolution of masonry includes reinforced concrete blocks and serpentine walls for added stability. The wide variety of brick styles and concrete masonry units allows diverse appearances, from uniform modern walls to rustic, artistic styles. Masonry's legacy is its adaptability across millennia, balancing traditional techniques with innovations like steel reinforcement and surface-bonding cement.

Did You Know?

• Masonry is one of the oldest building crafts, even predating written history.
• A crinkle-crankle wall is a serpentine brick wall that resists toppling more than a straight wall.
• Concrete blocks with hollow cores can be filled with concrete and steel rebar for greater tensile and lateral strength.
• Dry set masonry can forgo mortar entirely, relying on friction between interlocking blocks.