A structural masonry It's a true innovation for the market, considering that it doesn't require a large quantity of materials to erect walls or to carry out the project. Therefore, it completely abandons the traditional concrete pouring method, which is already somewhat outdated.
To use this clean, safe, and economical method, it's necessary to know a little more about it. Therefore, read this article to the end to discover the advantages and disadvantages of its implementation, as well as learn some interesting facts about the method throughout its history.
What is structural masonry?
Structural masonry is simply a construction system where the walls of a given building assume a structural role. In this way, there is no need to use beams or columns for a building to remain standing, thus replacing the classic concrete method.
Masonry based on the structural type is characterized by the use of self-supporting concrete or ceramic blocks. Therefore, it is important to emphasize to the supplier the need to choose structural blocks at the time of purchase, considering that non-structural blocks are also available for sale.
Initially, the masonry structural Its objective was to replace the various traditional methods already established in the market, which used beams, pillars, and also construction slabs. From then on, construction became cheaper, faster, and cleaner, guaranteeing a more accurate, less risky, and more economical result.
Main features
The main characteristics of this type of method are directly linked to its function of supporting the weight of a given structure. Based on this information, it is extremely important that this method not be confused with infill masonry.
Another extremely important characteristic of structural masonry is the extensive use of concrete or ceramic that are hollowed out vertically. Therefore, the structure has no bottom, which makes its existence even more unique.
Finally, masonry focused on the structural part can be reinforced in projects where the buildings to be constructed are taller, but it can also be unreinforced when a building has a maximum of 4 floors. Only based on this information is it possible to understand the differences between the construction methods.
Advantages of structural masonry
The main advantages of structural masonry are:
- Greater reduction in the consumption of wood, concrete and steel forms, which can also be beneficial to the environment;
- Cost reductions related to the conventional beam, slab, and column system;
- Construction carried out more quickly;
- Great ease in training the workforce;
- Extensive organization within the construction site.
Disadvantages of structural masonry
Like any other method available on the market, structural masonry has the following disadvantages:
- If a building was constructed using structural masonry and a wall needs to be demolished, an assessment by a [legal professional/insurance expert] will be required. engineer to validate the reform, which may generate an extra cost;
- The architecture and design of the site will be constrained by the size and shape in which the structural blocks are positioned on the site.
Interesting facts
One of the first buildings to be constructed using structural masonry dates back to 1891 and remains in use today. It is located in Chicago and is called the "Monadnock Building". Its facade is quite simple, without much ornamentation, and its height is considered quite surprising, given that it has 16 floors.
Throughout history, numerous remarkable constructions have used the act of stacking stones to build walls, especially in pyramids, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Great Wall of China. Many of these buildings hold a great mystery for researchers regarding how they were constructed.
Structural masonry is extremely important in the construction industry, as it not only makes the construction process more economical, but also ensures safety for those who work on it and for those who will live in the building, in addition to transforming the construction site into a cleaner place.
