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Guide to Brick Masonry Construction
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    Materials Masonry

    Guide to Brick Masonry Construction

    Guide to Brick Masonry Construction

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    By Juan Rodriguez
    Updated August 14, 2017

    Brick masonry has been used over years, providing one of the best and most versatile materials in the construction industry. This informative hub has been designed to provide you with the latest and most comprehensive information about brick construction. Learn about the different types of bricks, how to install them, costs, and many uses of brick construction in the industry.

  • 01
    Different Types of Bricks

    Bricks
    ••• Bricks. Photo J Rodriguez

    Bricks are usually laid flat and are usually bonded forming a structure to increase its stability and strength. Bricks can exhibit above normal thermal insulation when compared to other building materials. Learn how and when to use the following types: 

    1. Common Burnt Clay Bricks
    2. Sand Lime Bricks (Calcium Silicate Bricks)
    3. Engineering Bricks
    4. Concrete Bricks
    5. Fly ash Clay Bricks

  • 02
    Installing a Brick Veneer

    brick veneer
    ••• brick veneer. Photo Oula Lehtinen

    A brick veneer is one of the favorites wall finishes producing an aesthetic finish and variable layout. Installing a brick veneer onto your building’s exterior requires special skills and it is usually performed by experienced brick mason

  • 03
    How to Tuckpoint?

    Tuckpointing
    ••• Tuckpointing. Photo Rights reserved by TheeErin

    Tuckpointing is the term used to describe the process of removing deteriorated mortar joints. Tuckpointed joints should be damped to make sure that the new mortar mix, bonds adequately to the existing joint and surface. Several products are available in the market that will allow you to put the mortar into the joints.

  • 04
    Are you Using the Right Mortar Mix?

    Mortar mix
    ••• Mortar mix. Photo by Tomwsulcer

    Choosing a mortar mix is not an exercise based only on the resistance and strength of each mortar, it must depend on its use, adhesion and sealing requirements. A mortar mix type N is usually recommended on exterior and above-grade walls that are exposed to severe weather and high heat. Learn when you can use type O, S and M types.

  • 05
    Have You Tried Using Insulated Concrete Masonry?

    Insulated Concrete Masonry
    ••• Insulated Concrete Masonry. Photo Bestblock

    Insulated concrete masonry units can provide insulation values up to R-22. These blocks are finished on the inside face reducing the need for drywall and/or paint used for the interior finish, making them less expensive and more environmentally friendly. ICMUs are available in all masonry veneer finishes brick, stone, etc. They can also be customized to fit the project needs for color and texture as well.

  • 06
    Important Tips on How Cold Weather Masonry

    Bricks during winter
    ••• Bricks during winter. Photo by z22

    Masonry work requires special attention when working temperatures are below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. These are some of the tips I have for you. For more tips check out the full article.

    • It is recommended to use a speed hydration by using high-early cement or by using an accelerator. Caution: Type III cements could change mortar color varying the required appearance.
    • Analyze how admixture could affect cold weather construction and reactions

  • 07
    How to Repair Cracks in Brickwork

    cracked bricks can be repaired
    ••• cracked bricks can be repaired. Photo Rights reserved by OliBac

    Working with bricks can be a little tricky and confusing. Some contractors have failed to execute some simple steps and have paid the price with costly reparations after the job has been completed.

  • 08
    Mortarless Brick Veneer: Easy Solution on Masonry Construction

    mortarless bricks
    ••• mortarless bricks. Photo J Rodriguez

     The mortarless birck veneer is very similar to split-faced bricks. Like traditional brick veneer siding, they are installed in staggered rows, attaching them to the vertical furring strips attached to the wall sheathing. The strips will provide a solid connection, while creating an air space, allowing the brick veneer to breathe and facilitating drainage to prevent moisture from entering the structure. 

  • 09
    How to Mix Mortar Creating the Right Consistency

    Mortar mix
    ••• Mortar mix. Photo by Tomwsulcer

    The right mortar mix should be prepared using good grade sand on your mix. The sand should be free of clayey material, otherwise it will create a paste that could expand and contract as water dries up.

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