Brick masonry, a skillful craft that involves constructing structures using bricks and mortar, has emerged as a promising career option for individuals seeking stability and a good income. With the constant need for construction and renovation projects, the demand for skilled masons remains consistently high. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, in their report from May 2021, revealed that the median annual wage for masons exceeded $48,000, reflecting the lucrative nature of this occupation. This information serves as a testament to the potential financial rewards that await those who choose to embark on a journey in brick masonry.
What Are the Problems With Masonry?
Masonry, known for it’s durability and timeless appeal, isn’t without it’s fair share of challenges. When it comes to existing buildings, there are five prominent problems that constantly plague masonry structures. Brick spalling, the gradual flaking and chipping of brick surfaces, is a common issue caused mainly by water penetration and freeze-thaw cycles. Over time, this can compromise the structural integrity of the entire wall.
Another challenge masonry faces is the deterioration of mortar. As mortar ages, it can become weakened or eroded, leading to gaps or cracks within the joints. This not only affects the aesthetic appeal of the structure but also compromises it’s overall strength and resistance to weather and other external factors.
Sandstone erosion is yet another notable issue faced by masonry structures. Sandstone, often used as a building material, is susceptible to erosion caused by various factors such as wind, water, and chemical reactions. The constant degradation of the sandstone surface can result in the loss of intricate architectural details and reduced strength.
Algae growth is a significant concern in masonry structures, particularly in damp and shaded areas. Not only does this affect the appearance of the structure, but it can also lead to the formation of moss or lichens, which further deteriorate the masonry.
Efflorescence, a whitish deposit that appears on the surface of masonry, is another common problem. This happens when water-soluble salts present in the masonry materials are brought to the surface by moisture and then crystallize as the water evaporates. Efflorescence not only detracts from the beauty of the masonry but also indicates potential water infiltration issues, which can lead to more severe damage if not addressed.
These challenges, if left unchecked, can cause significant damage to masonry structures and compromise their longevity. Regular inspection, maintenance, and timely repairs are crucial to mitigating these problems. By implementing proper waterproofing measures, using quality materials, and addressing any signs of damage promptly, building owners and professionals can help preserve the beauty and integrity of masonry structures for years to come.
Additionally, brick masonry requires regular maintenance and inspection to prevent crumbling and mortar deterioration. This can add to the overall cost of owning a brick home. Moreover, the weight of brick can pose challenges during construction, requiring additional structural support and increasing labor costs. Furthermore, brick masonry can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, prolonging the construction process. Lastly, although brick offers excellent insulation properties, it’s a relatively lower R-value compared to other insulation materials, resulting in higher heating and cooling costs in the long run.
What Are the Cons of Brick Masonry?
Maintenance – While brick is generally low-maintenance, it does require regular cleaning to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. It may also need to be repointed over time to maintain it’s structural integrity. Limited insulation – Brick masonry has lower insulation properties compared to other building materials, such as foam insulation or insulated concrete forms. This can result in higher energy costs to heat or cool a brick home. Limited design options – While brick is available in various colors and styles, it may not offer as much design flexibility as other materials. This can restrict architectural creativity and limit the aesthetic appeal of a building. Time-consuming installation – Brick masonry requires skilled labor and is a slow process compared to other construction methods, such as using pre-fabricated wall panels. This can lead to longer construction timelines and increased labor costs. Additionally, the weight of bricks can make transportation and installation challenging in certain locations. These are some of the significant cons associated with brick masonry.
One aspect that should be avoided in brick masonry is the formation of vertical joints. When the ends of bricks are aligned with each other vertically, weaknesses can arise within the wall structure. These vertical joints provide an easy pathway for cracks to propagate, ultimately compromising the strength of the wall.
Should Be Avoided in Brick Masonry?
In brick masonry, it’s crucial to avoid certain practices that can compromise the strength and durability of the wall. One such aspect to avoid is the occurrence of vertical joints. Vertical joints are formed when the end of a brick coincides with the end of the underlying brick in a vertical manner. This alignment of joints creates a weak point in the wall, making it susceptible to cracks and structural instability.
To prevent vertical joints, masons should use brick units with staggered end joints. This means that the end of one brick shouldn’t be in line with the end of the adjacent brick vertically.
It’s imperative to ensure that each brick is laid in a level manner, with consistent mortar joints. Utilizing appropriate tools and techniques, such as brick gauges and spirit levels, can assist in achieving uniform brick alignment and minimizing the occurrence of vertical joints.
The Impact of Temperature and Climate on Brick Masonry
- Changes in temperature cause expansion and contraction of the brick masonry.
- Extreme temperature variations lead to stress and can result in cracks or structural damage.
- Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause deterioration of the mortar, weakening the overall structure.
- Freezing and thawing cycles in cold climates can cause water within the bricks to expand and lead to spalling.
- Humidity and moisture in the air can accelerate the weathering process of the bricks.
- Increased moisture levels can promote the growth of algae, moss, or fungi, compromising the structural integrity.
- High winds and severe weather conditions can impact the stability of brick masonry, especially in areas prone to hurricanes or tornadoes.
- In coastal regions, saltwater and salt-laden air can corrode the bricks and mortar, causing accelerated deterioration.
- Climate change and rising global temperatures can exacerbate these effects and increase the vulnerability of brick masonry structures over time.
- Proper maintenance, including regular inspections and repairs, can help mitigate the impact of temperature and climate on brick masonry.
Conclusion
The demand for skilled workers in this trade is consistently high, ensuring a steady flow of employment opportunities and the potential for job security.