Frame vs. Joisted masonry is a comparison and classification used in the construction industry to distinguish between different types of building structures. These distinctions are crucial as they play a significant role in determining the construction techniques, materials, and regulations applicable to each type of building.
What Is Considered Joisted Masonry?
Joisted masonry construction, as defined by the Construction Loss Manual (CLM), refers to a particular type of building construction where the exterior walls are made of various masonry materials such as adobe, brick, concrete, gypsum block, hollow concrete block, stone, tile, or similar substances. This construction method is commonly used in buildings that require a high level of structural stability and fire resistance.
The defining characteristic of joisted masonry construction is the combination of masonry walls with combustible floor and roof materials. While the exterior walls provide durability and resistance to external forces, such as wind and impact, the floors and roofs are typically constructed from combustible materials like wood or other flammable substances. This combination aims to strike a balance between structural integrity and cost-effectiveness.
The associated ISO construction code for joisted masonry construction is labeled as Construction Code This classification helps insurers and appraisers to evaluate the risk factors and determine appropriate insurance premiums for properties with this type of construction. It takes into consideration the relative fire hazards associated with combustible floor and roof materials, balanced against the fire resistance provided by the masonry walls.
Buildings that fall under the joisted masonry construction category are often found in urban areas and can include a wide range of structures, such as residential homes, commercial buildings, warehouses, and institutional facilities. This construction method has proven to be durable, versatile, and cost-effective, contributing to it’s popularity in many construction projects.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Joisted Masonry Construction
Joisted masonry construction refers to a type of building technique that combines wooden joists with masonry walls. This method has both advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of joisted masonry construction include it’s structural strength and durability. The combination of masonry walls with wooden joists provides a sturdy and stable framework for the building. This construction method is also resistant to fire and can help prevent the spread of flames, enhancing the overall safety of the structure. Additionally, the use of masonry walls can improve insulation and create energy-efficient buildings.
However, there are a few disadvantages to joisted masonry construction as well. One drawback is the cost involved, as this method can be more expensive compared to other construction techniques. Additionally, masonry construction requires skilled laborers who’ve expertise in handling masonry materials, which can increase construction costs further. Another disadvantage is the potential for moisture-related issues, as masonry walls can absorb water and lead to the deterioration of the structure over time.
In conclusion, joisted masonry construction offers advantages such as strength, durability, fire resistance, and energy efficiency. However, it also has drawbacks like high costs and potential moisture-related problems. Therefore, builders and property owners should carefully consider these factors when deciding whether to opt for joisted masonry construction.
Masonry framing, also known as frame masonry, involves the construction of exterior walls using concrete masonry units (CMUs). This process, similar to that used in commercial buildings, utilizes concrete and steel walls for added strength and durability compared to traditional stick-built walls. The masonry walls become the load-bearing component, replacing lumber walls and providing a sturdy foundation for the structure.
What Is Frame Masonry?
THE BENEFITS: Frame masonry offers several benefits over traditional stick-built construction. Firstly, the use of concrete and steel in the walls provides a higher level of durability and structural integrity. This means that homes constructed with frame masonry are better equipped to withstand extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes or earthquakes.
Additionally, frame masonry walls provide better protection against fire as they’re less flammable than wood. This can be especially important in areas prone to wildfires. Furthermore, frame masonry walls offer improved sound insulation, making them ideal for homes located in noisy urban areas.
THE DESIGN OPTIONS: One of the advantages of frame masonry is the variety of design options available. Concrete masonry units come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing for creative and unique designs. Different textures and finishes can also be applied to the exterior surface, giving the home a customized and visually appealing look.
THE SUSTAINABILITY: Frame masonry construction is also considered a sustainable building method. Concrete is a widely available and locally sourced material, reducing transportation emissions. Additionally, concrete masonry units have a high thermal mass, which means they can absorb and store heat energy, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling.
The materials used, such as concrete and steel, can be pricier than wood. Additionally, the specialized labor and equipment required for masonry work may also add to the overall cost. However, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits and durability of frame masonry when comparing costs.
THE LIMITATIONS: Despite it’s advantages, frame masonry construction does have some limitations. The use of concrete and steel can result in a heavier structure, potentially requiring additional measures to ensure proper foundation support. Furthermore, masonry walls may be more challenging to modify or alter compared to wood-framed walls. It’s important to consider these limitations when deciding on the construction method for a project.
In contrast to frame construction, masonry veneer refers to a thin layer of stone used for decorative purposes rather than structural support. When conducting a simple knock test, frame construction will produce a slightly hollow sound, whereas masonry construction will yield a solid and hard surface, similar to knocking on stone. Stone cladding is a type of stone veneer that’s applied to non-stone structures for aesthetic purposes. This type of exterior finish can be seen in the bottom photo, which showcases a frame house with a single layer of brick.
What Is Masonry Veneer vs Frame?
Masonry veneer and frame construction are two different methods used in building structures. One key difference between the two is the level of solidity and sound produced when knocking on the surface. In frame construction, there’s a slightly hollow sound, indicating that the structure is supported by a wooden frame. On the other hand, masonry construction produces a solid and hard sound, similar to knocking on stone, as it’s built using bricks or stone materials.
Masonry veneer refers to a thin layer of stone or any other material used for decorative purposes, rather than serving as a load-bearing component. It’s commonly used as a decorative facing material that’s applied to the exterior of a building or structure, providing an aesthetic appeal without the structural functions. This stone cladding technique gives the illusion of a solid stone construction, even though the underlying structure is made of non-stone materials.
In contrast, frame construction involves the use of a wooden frame as the main structural support. The frame acts as a skeleton on which the walls, floors, and roof are attached. The bottom photo demonstrates a frame house with a single layer of brick on the exterior. In this case, the brick serves as a decorative veneer and not as a load-bearing component. Frame construction is a popular choice due to it’s versatility, cost-effectiveness, and ease of construction.
It’s essential to understand the differences between these two techniques to determine the most suitable option for a specific construction project.
Source: Masonry veneer
Conclusion
The choice between these two construction methods depends on factors such as cost, available materials, desired aesthetics, and regional building codes. Architects and builders must carefully consider these aspects to ensure the safety, durability, and overall success of a construction project. By understanding these concepts, architects and builders can effectively create structures that meet both functional and aesthetic needs while adhering to safety standards and regulations.