What Are the Pros and Cons of Masonry Construction?

1
What Are the Pros and Cons of Masonry
Construction?
2

• Structures that are built using masonry
  techniques are made from single units laid and
  bound together with mortar, and brick, stone and
  concrete blocks are the most commonly used
  materials in masonry construction.
• A popular construction technique used the world
  over, masonry has many advantages, some of which
  can be found below
• Non-combustible, masonry gives buildings and
  their occupants better protection against fires
• Highly resistant to rot, pests, weather and
  natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes,
  masonry is tough and durable

3

• Depending on the materials used and the expertise
  of the builder, masonry structures can give a
  building a unique look
• Masonry is capable of withstanding large amounts
  of compressive weight loads
• The thermal mass of a building is increased when
  masonry is used
• Buildings made using masonry techniques are
  longer lasting than other types of buildings
• There are a few cons to masonry construction, and
  these typically include the fact that the
  materials are usually heavy and require special
  transportation, work cannot be carried out in the
  rain or freezing conditions and a lot of time and
  project planning is required.

4

• Lets look at the pros and cons of each type of
  material commonly used in masonry construction
• Brick masonry
• The pros
• Commonly used in masonry construction projects,
  brick masonry is a reasonably unskilled technique
  as bricks are uniform in shape and size.
  Lightweight, easier to maneuver around and
  transport, bricks are also cheaper than
  alternative materials such as stones and
  concrete.
• The walls of a building made from bricks are
  thinner and openings for doors and windows can
  easily be made.

5

• The cons
• With a low resistance against tension and torsion
  loads, bricks are more susceptible to seismic
  damage, and when compared to stone and concrete,
  they are not as strong or durable. Construction
  costs may also be higher due to finishing
  techniques such as plasterwork.
• Stone masonry

6

• The pros
• Extremely durable and weather resistant, stone is
  a material recommended by many construction
  companies, particularly for buildings that
  typically experience high foot traffic, as it
  doesnt bend or dent. Requiring little
  maintenance or repairs, the design possibilities
  are endless with stone masonry.
• The cons
• With a self-weight, low flexural and tensile
  strength, stone masonry can be a time-consuming
  process and requires skilled workers. Stone walls
  are also thick and heavy, and can significantly
  reduce floor space.

7

• Concrete blocks
• The pros
• Highly resistant to pests, weather and fire not
  to mention mold, concrete blocks are available in
  a variety of sizes, finishes and colors. With the
  possibility of manufacturing them to meet any set
  project requirements, they also have good
  insulating properties that can protect against
  heat, sound and moisture.

8

• The cons
• Increasing the amount of steel required in
  reinforced cement concrete structures, large
  concrete blocks are also heavy and costs can vary
  according to the region and its availability.
  Should a building have a plumbing issue, the
  blocks must often be cut open, which can lead to
  costly reparations.
• Masonry construction is a worthwhile and
  effective technique, provided you seek an
  experienced and reputable general contractor.

9

• RZ Construction Group Inc is a fully inclusive
  general contractor in Astoria NY. From initial
  design to final clean up, our results speak for
  themselves. We are fully licensed, insured, and
  bonded to provide both commercial and residential
  construction services to customers in Astoria and
  the surrounding area. Proud to serve New York
  State for 25 years. No job is too small nor too
  big. If you are looking for a masonry contractor
  in Astoria NY or want to know more about our wide
  range of professional but affordable construction
  and repair services, reach out to us at (718)
  938-9887.