What Is Joisted Masonry
Joisted masonry construction refers to buildings with exterior walls made of materials such as adobe, brick, concrete, gypsum block, hollow concrete block, stone, or tile, while the floors and roof are combustible.
This construction class, known as CC 2, is commonly found in commercial buildings in Washington state, including office buildings, habitational dwellings, and warehouses.
The exterior walls can be made of load-bearing masonry or supported by a metal frame with non-combustible metal siding or masonry panels.
Joisted masonry buildings typically have a maximum height of four stories and can include a variety of floor and roof constructions.
The classification is significant for understanding Verisk reports that identify a building as joisted masonry construction.
Did You Know?
1. The term “joisted masonry” refers to a type of construction where the load-bearing walls are made of solid masonry, such as brick or stone, while the floors and roof are supported by wooden joists.
2. Joisted masonry construction was commonly used in Europe during the medieval period, particularly for castles and fortifications. The sturdy masonry walls provided excellent protection against attacks, while the wooden floors allowed for flexible interior design and construction.
3. The use of joisted masonry construction declined in the 18th and 19th centuries due to the introduction of more efficient building materials and techniques. However, it still remains in use today for certain types of buildings, such as historical restorations or buildings where a unique aesthetic is desired.
4. One advantage of joisted masonry construction is its ability to provide excellent fire resistance. The solid masonry walls act as a barrier against the spread of fire, while the wooden joists may be treated with fire retardant materials to further enhance safety.
5. Joisted masonry buildings often require specialized expertise and planning during renovation or restoration projects, as any alterations or modifications can affect the structural integrity. It is crucial to consult with experienced professionals who have a deep understanding of this type of construction to ensure proper preservation and maintenance of the building.
Definition Of Joisted Masonry Class
Joisted Masonry (CC 2) is a construction class commonly used for commercial buildings in Washington state. This class is specifically designated for buildings with exterior walls made of materials such as adobe, brick, concrete, gypsum block, hollow concrete block, stone, or tile. It is important to note that the floors and roofs of these buildings are combustible.
A significant feature of joisted masonry construction is the utilization of hollow concrete blocks as a primary building material. These blocks not only provide structural strength, but also offer insulation and fire resistance. Furthermore, the exterior walls can be of any type or thickness, as long as they are load-bearing masonry or non-combustible-rated metal siding supported by a metal frame. This flexibility allows for architectural diversity while ensuring structural integrity.
Characteristics Of Joisted Masonry Buildings
Joisted masonry construction offers design flexibility, allowing for various floor and roof constructions. It is commonly used in office buildings, habitational dwellings, and warehouses. It is important to note that the maximum height for joisted masonry buildings is four stories. If the height exceeds this limit, other construction classes must be considered.
In some cases, buildings with a metal frame and a combustible roof may also be classified as CC 2 construction. The determination of the overall construction type depends on the percentage of joisted masonry construction present. A building is categorized as joisted masonry as long as it has more than 33 1/3% CC 2 construction and no other part of the building exceeds 33 1/3% of a more combustible construction class.
Common Associations With CC 2 Construction
Joisted masonry buildings are commonly built using fire-resistive materials for their exterior walls. These materials should have a minimum fire rating of one hour, which means that they can withstand fire for a reasonable period. It is crucial to take this classification into account when reviewing a Verisk report that identifies a building as joisted masonry construction.
Exterior Wall And Siding Options For Joisted Masonry Buildings
For joisted masonry buildings, the exterior walls can be constructed using a variety of load-bearing masonry materials. This includes adobe, brick, concrete, gypsum block, hollow concrete block, stone, or tile. Additionally, non-combustible-rated metal siding or non-load-bearing masonry panels supported by a metal frame can also be used.
The flexibility in exterior wall options allows for different aesthetic styles while maintaining the necessary structural integrity and fire resistance. Building owners and architects can choose the most suitable material based on factors like cost, aesthetics, and regional considerations.
- Exterior walls of joisted masonry buildings can be constructed using various load-bearing masonry materials such as adobe, brick, concrete, gypsum block, hollow concrete block, stone, or tile.
- Non-combustible-rated metal siding or non-load-bearing masonry panels supported by a metal frame are also viable options.
- Building owners and architects have the freedom to choose the most suitable material based on factors such as cost, aesthetics, and regional considerations.
The flexibility in exterior wall options allows for different aesthetic styles while maintaining the necessary structural integrity and fire resistance.
Applications And Limitations Of Joisted Masonry Construction
Joisted masonry construction is widely used in office buildings, habitational dwellings, and warehouses. This construction method aims to achieve a balance between structural integrity, fire resistance, and cost-effectiveness. By incorporating masonry and fire-resistive materials in the exterior walls, joisted masonry construction offers a safe and durable solution.
It is important, however, to understand the limitations of joisted masonry construction. One limitation is the maximum height restriction of four stories, which necessitates alternative construction classes for taller buildings. Additionally, the combustible nature of the floors and roofs should be considered when planning fire safety measures.
In conclusion, professionals in the construction industry, particularly in Washington state, need to have a thorough understanding of joisted masonry construction. This construction class, characterized by masonry or fire-resistive exterior walls and combustible floors and roofs, has various applications but also certain limitations. Being aware of the available exterior wall and siding options, as well as the associations with CC 2 construction, is crucial for making informed decisions in building design and ensuring safety.
Check this out:
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between joisted masonry and masonry non-combustible?
The main distinction between joisted masonry and masonry non-combustible lies in the design of their wall and roof assemblies. In joisted masonry construction, the walls are primarily composed of masonry materials such as bricks or blocks, while the roof is typically constructed with wooden joists and decking. On the other hand, in masonry non-combustible construction, both the walls and roof are constructed using non-combustible materials, such as steel or concrete. This crucial difference ensures greater fire resistance and reduced risk of structural damage in masonry non-combustible buildings.
What type of ISO is joisted masonry?
Joisted masonry is a classification of ISO (Insurance Services Office) that refers to buildings with exterior walls made of materials such as brick, concrete, clay tile, or other similar substances. This construction type poses specific risks due to the nature of the materials used. The sturdy and resilient nature of masonry provides some level of protection against potential hazards, but it also requires proper maintenance to prevent issues like water infiltration or structural deterioration. Understanding the unique characteristics and vulnerabilities of joisted masonry buildings allows insurers to assess the associated risks accurately and provide appropriate coverage.
What are the classification of masonry?
Masonry is commonly classified into two main categories: rubble masonry and ashlar masonry. Rubble masonry refers to the method of using irregularly shaped stones that are roughly dressed and placed together with mortar. This type of masonry is often used in construction projects where a rustic and natural appearance is desired, such as in rural settings or for retaining walls.
On the other hand, ashlar masonry is a more refined technique that involves using precisely cut and shaped stones that are laid in regular courses, resulting in a more uniform and polished look. This type of masonry is commonly found in architectural structures where aesthetic appeal and precision are paramount, such as in historical buildings or monuments. By understanding these two classifications, architects and engineers can determine the most suitable method of masonry for a given project, based on its functional and visual requirements.
What is reinforced masonry?
Reinforced masonry, also known as RBM, refers to brick masonry structures that have been enhanced with steel reinforcement in the mortar or grout. This innovative technique significantly enhances the masonry’s ability to withstand the forces that produce tensile and shear stresses. By combining the strength of bricks with the flexibility of steel reinforcement, reinforced masonry offers superior resistance to external pressures, making it a durable and resilient construction method. Whether it’s for buildings or infrastructure projects, reinforced masonry provides an effective solution for ensuring structural integrity and longevity.