What Are the Precautions During Masonry Construction to Ensure Safety and Structural Integrity?

What Are the Precautions During Masonry Construction

During masonry construction, several precautions should be taken to ensure the quality and stability of the structure.

Firstly, suitable lifting devices should be used due to the weight and size of the stones.

Stones should be properly dressed and well watered before use, and large flat stones should be used under the ends of girders and roof trusses for uniform load distribution.

It is important to use hard, tough, strong, durable, and well-seasoned stones that are free from flows, cavities, defects, soft patches, and cracks.

Stones should be laid on their natural bed and compression stresses should be considered in the design to avoid tensile stresses.

The plumb bob should be used to check the verticality of the wall, and double scaffolding should be used for construction at higher levels.

Each stone should be cleaned and saturated with water before setting, and stones should be placed in freshly made mortar with full joints.

Pointed joints should be wetted and filled with mortar, and hollows should be properly filled with mortar and stone chippings.

Additionally, proper care should be taken during the curing process, with the entire work being cured for at least 2 to 3 weeks.

The mortar used should be of good quality and proportion, and the walls should be kept wet and protected from the sun during pointing.

Finally, an expansion joint should be included at regular intervals in the case of a compound wall, and water used on the construction site should meet specific quality standards.

All these precautions contribute to the safe and long-lasting construction of masonry structures.

Precautions For Stone Masonry Construction

Stone Masonry Construction Best Practices

Stone has been a preferred building material for centuries due to its durability and strength. However, practicing certain precautions is crucial to ensure safety and maintain the integrity of a stone masonry construction project. Here are some important guidelines to follow:

1. Choose high-quality stones: When selecting stones, opt for those that are hard, tough, strong, durable, and well-seasoned. Ensure they are free from flaws, cavities, defects, soft patches, and cracks. This guarantees uniform strength and the ability to withstand pressure and weight.

2. Lay stones on their natural bed: Place stones in the same orientation as they were formed in the earth. This maximizes their structural stability and enhances load-bearing capacity.

3. Use appropriate lifting devices: Depending on their weight and size, employ suitable lifting devices to handle stones safely.

4. Distribute load evenly: To ensure uniform load distribution, utilize large flat stones under the ends of girders and roof trusses.

5. Choose stones carefully for different purposes: Avoid using broken stones, small pieces, and chips for facing and backing. However, these can be utilized for hearting, which fills the gaps between facing stones.

6. Design structures to handle compression: Stone masonry structures should be designed to withstand compression rather than tensile stresses. Achieve this by gradually diminishing the thickness of each course from the bottom to the top of the wall. Additionally, ensure that pressure acting on the stones is vertical to prevent splitting.

7. Incorporate through bond stones: Integrate through bond stones at regular intervals in a zigzag pattern. These stones provide additional strength and stability to the overall structure.

Quote: “The cornerstone, the first stone laid in the foundation, must be the strongest stone, capable of bearing the weight of all other stones built upon it.”

1. Ensure uniform construction: When raising stone masonry, maintain a consistent pace to avoid uneven distribution of load on the foundation. It is recommended that the maximum height of construction per day does not exceed 3 feet. This allows for proper consolidation and curing, preventing structural issues.

2. Proper stone selection (hard, tough, durable, well-seasoned)

3. Uniform load distribution using large flat stones
4. Avoid broken stones for facing and backing
5. Gradually reduce thickness of courses (bottom to top)
6. Incorporate through bond stones for added strength
7. Cornerstone should be the strongest and capable of bearing weight
8. Raise construction uniformly (maximum 3 feet per day)

Following these guidelines will ensure a safe and structurally sound stone masonry construction project.

Proper Handling And Placement Of Stones

The handling and placement of stones during masonry construction are crucial for the overall safety and stability of the structure. Here are some important precautions to consider:

• Properly dress and shape the stones before using them. Remove all loose fragments and uneven portions to ensure a stable and secure placement. Thoroughly water the stones to prevent excessive absorption of water from the mortar.

• Use suitable lifting devices and equipment to handle the stones, taking into account their weight and size. This will ensure the safety of workers and prevent any damage to the stones during transportation and placement.

• When placing stones, use large flat stones under the ends of girders and roof trusses to distribute the load evenly. Avoid using broken stones, small pieces, and chips for facing and backing, as they can weaken the overall structural integrity.

• Each stone should be cleaned and saturated with water before setting. The bed on which the stone will be placed should also be properly prepared by thoroughly wetting it. Place the stones in freshly made mortar with full joints before it sets, to ensure a strong bond.

• After laying the stones, thoroughly wet and fill the pointed joints with mortar. Properly fill any hollows or voids in the stone masonry construction with mortar and stone chippings to maintain structural stability and prevent water infiltration.

Guidelines For Stone Dressing And Watering

Stone dressing and watering are essential steps in stone masonry construction that contribute to the stability and durability of the structure. Here are some important guidelines to follow:

• Proper stone dressing: Before laying the stones, it is crucial to properly dress and shape them. This involves removing any loose fragments, uneven portions, and surface irregularities. This ensures a tight and secure fit between the stones, minimizing the risk of displacement or cracks.

• Thorough watering: Before placing the stones, it is vital to thoroughly water them. This prevents excessive absorption of water from the mortar, which can lead to shrinkage and cracking of the mortar joints. Additionally, it ensures better adhesion between the stones and the mortar.

• Use well-seasoned stones: It is advisable to use stones that have been well-seasoned. Well-seasoned stones have lower water absorption properties and are less likely to crack or shrink. They also provide better structural stability and durability to the stone masonry construction.

• Properly proportioned mortar: When laying the stones, it is important to use properly proportioned mortar. The mortar should be of good quality and workability to ensure a strong bond between the stones. Lime mortar can be used above the plinth level, while cement mortar can be used below the plinth level and for higher strength requirements.

• Finishing joints: After laying the stones, it is crucial to properly finish the joints. This can be achieved by using an approved pointing tool. Exposed joints should be thoroughly wetted and pointed with cement mortar. This helps prevent water infiltration and ensures the overall stability and longevity of the stone masonry construction.

Specific Requirements For Masonry Joints

The joints in stone masonry construction play a critical role in maintaining the stability and strength of the structure. Here are some specific requirements for masonry joints:

• The beds and joints of the stones should have an average thickness of no more than 1 inch (25 mm). This ensures proper consolidation and bonding between the stones and the mortar.

• The vertical joints in each course should break with the adjoining courses at least 6 inches (150 mm). Breaking the joints at regular intervals helps to distribute the load evenly and prevent the formation of weak points or stress concentrations.

• Vertical joints should not be placed directly above or below a header joint. This helps to maintain the overall stability of the structure and prevents the formation of discontinuities or weak points.

• If a joint is broken or a stone has moved after the mortar has set, it is important to take up the stone, thoroughly clean the bed and joints, and reset the stone in fresh mortar. This ensures proper consolidation and bonding between the stone and the mortar.

• Proper pointing of the face joints should be done before the mortar sets, if possible. If not possible, the joints should be raked out to a depth of 1 inch (25 mm) before the mortar is set. This helps to ensure a strong and watertight joint.

• After the pointing is completed and the mortar is set, the walls should be thoroughly cleaned and left in a neat condition. This not only improves the aesthetic appearance but also prevents the accumulation of debris or dirt that can compromise the structural integrity of the stone masonry construction.

Considerations For Brick Masonry Construction

Brick masonry is a popular method of construction for building walls. It involves laying bricklayers and bonding them with cement mortar. Here are some important considerations for brick masonry construction:

• There are specifications and standards for brick masonry construction in different countries, such as American, British, Indian, and European standards. It is important to check if all materials used in construction conform to the specifications to ensure the quality and performance of the structure.
• Low-grade or sub-standard materials can significantly affect the quality of construction. Therefore, it is important to procure materials from reputable sources and ensure that they meet the required standards.
• Water used on the construction site should be potable and have a pH value between 6.5 to 7.5. The water should not be salty, as it can adversely affect the strength and durability of the masonry.
• There are guidelines set by organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and World Health Organization (WHO) for acceptable water quality. The maximum concentration of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is typically set at 500 mg/L.
• The masonry mortar should be of good quality and proportion, with adequate workability. Cement should be tested according to ASTM C270 and BS EN 1015-2/11 standards to ensure its performance and strength in the masonry construction.
• Proper mixing of mortar should be done with mechanical mixing, especially for large-scale projects. Hand mixing can be used for smaller works. Mortar should be prepared on an impervious plate or on a concrete or brick surface to prevent the loss of water and maintain the required consistency.
• Appropriate scaffolding material, such as M.S or bamboo, should be available on-site before starting brick masonry. Sieving screens should also be present to ensure that the mortar is free from any lumps or impurities.
• Bricks used in masonry construction should be tested for compressive strength, water absorption, and efflorescence. This helps to ensure the quality and performance of the bricks in the construction.

By following these precautions and guidelines, masonry construction can be carried out safely and effectively, ensuring the structural integrity and durability of the building. It is essential to adhere to these measures to ensure the long-term stability, safety, and aesthetic appeal of the construction.

• For brick masonry construction, check specifications and standards for materials
• Procure materials from reputable sources
• Use potable water with pH value between 6.5 to 7.5
• Follow guidelines for acceptable water quality (e.g., maximum TDS of 500 mg/L)
• Ensure quality and proportion of masonry mortar
• Proper mechanical mixing for large-scale projects, hand mixing for smaller works
• Prepare mortar on impervious plate or surface to retain water consistency
• Use appropriate scaffolding material and sieving screens
• Test bricks for compressive strength, water absorption, and efflorescence

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the precautions of stone masonry construction?

In stone masonry construction, it is essential to take necessary precautions to ensure a strong and durable structure. Firstly, the stones used should possess specific qualities such as hardness, toughness, strength, durability, and being well-seasoned. This ensures that the stones can withstand external forces and maintain their structural integrity over time. Additionally, the stones should be free from any flaws, cavities, defects, soft patches, or cracks, as these imperfections can compromise the stability and longevity of the construction. Finally, when laying the stones, it is important to place them on their natural bed, allowing for proper weight distribution and optimal strength in the structure. By following these precautions, stone masonry construction can be executed successfully, resulting in a sturdy and long-lasting building.

What precautions should be taken in brick masonry construction?

In brick masonry construction, several precautions should be observed for optimal results. Firstly, it is crucial to ensure that the bricks are neither dry nor liquid. This can be achieved by soaking the bricks in clean water before their usage. Additionally, it is important to carefully inspect the brickwork to ensure that it is in a straight line and properly aligned, both in terms of being plum and having well-lined joints. Lastly, when incorporating doors and windows, it is advisable to leave openings simultaneously rather than by dismantling, as this will maintain the structural integrity of the masonry.

What are the safety hazards of masonry work?

Masonry work presents several safety hazards that workers must be aware of. The most pronounced risk is the potential for falls from heights, which can result in severe injuries or even fatalities. Additionally, workers are at risk of sustaining cuts from the sharp tools and materials used in masonry. Lastly, the exposure to hazardous dust, often containing materials such as silica, poses a long-term health risk to masonry workers. Proper safety measures, such as using protective equipment and following established protocols, are crucial for mitigating these hazards and ensuring the well-being of workers in the masonry industry.

What are the 8 features in masonry that is important in building constructions?

In building constructions, the eight important features of masonry play a crucial role. Firstly, design flexibility allows architects and builders to create unique and visually appealing structures by utilizing various masonry materials and techniques. Secondly, the availability of various textures in masonry offers architects a wide range of design options, enabling them to tailor the aesthetic appearance of the building to their preference.

Thirdly, masonry’s structural strength provides stability and resilience, ensuring that the constructed building can withstand external forces and maintain its integrity. Additionally, the mold resistance property of masonry helps in creating a healthier and safer indoor environment by preventing the growth of mold and mildew. Moreover, the durability of masonry ensures that the building will have a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

Furthermore, the simple maintenance needs of masonry make it a practical choice for building constructions, as routine maintenance tasks can be easily undertaken. Finally, the competitive cost of masonry makes it an economical option for construction projects, allowing for cost-effective and efficient building solutions. Altogether, these eight features of masonry make it a reliable and advantageous choice in the realm of building constructions.