Masonry is and has always been the most common construction method. In simple terms, it refers to laying individual construction blocks together and binding them with a mixture of sand, water, and cement, called mortar. The most common materials used for masonry structures are stone, brick, and concrete.
Like any method, masonry has its pros and cons. Here, we shall tell you a little about stone masonry and the most significant advantages and disadvantages of its construction technology.
Benefits of Masonry Construction Technology
- A masonry construction is exceptionally sturdy and durable if made professionally. Depending on the materials used for the mortar, it can last as long as several centuries.
- It is also weather-resistant, making masonry a method of choice in virtually any climate, hot or cold, dry or humid.
- Masonry constructions are soundproof as well, protecting you from the noise outside the house much better than wooden constructions do.
- Since this technology does not involve final painting, masonry constructions will require considerably less maintenance in the future.
- In addition, as it is non-combustible too, masonry provides far more effective fire protection than any other type of construction does, which makes it an ideal construction method for houses with brick ovens and fireplaces.
- Unlike wood constructions, masonry works are not subject to insects, termites, and rodents, no matter which materials you use for the construction blocks and the mortar.
- Both the materials and the required labor are considerably cheaper than is the case with timber constructions.
- Stone masonry makes the final product look more elegant and stylish.
- Last but not least, all these advantages also decrease the insurance costs and utility bills and increase the final resale value of the building.
Drawbacks of Masonry Construction Technology
- Even though a masonry construction can bear a comparatively heavy load of weight from above, it has low tensile strength and provides a poor lateral deflection as a result. For this reason, masonry companies usually have to use complementary, non-masonry materials and structures to provide additional lateral support.
- Since the total weight load is considerably heavier than in wooden constructions, the foundations for masonry constructions are also a lot larger. On the other hand, this is not a drawback when using a complementary method in the construction process.
- A bigger problem is that, since the masonry construction's foundation is the sole provider of its stability, even slight unsettling can, very likely, produce cracks in the walls that will need immediate treatment.
- The construction process takes longer and requires more thorough project planning and a more professional workforce. It is also heavily dependent on external factors, such as weather conditions and the availability of appropriate means of transportation.
Final Word
These are the general pros and cons of any masonry construction, and they apply to all the materials used in the construction process. There are also specific benefits and drawbacks of each particular material of the construction blocks. However, their discussion falls outside the scope of this article.
You are welcome to browse our official website to learn more about masonry construction techniques. Otherwise, call us on 847 922 33 79 if you have any specific questions or to get a quote and apply for our professional masonry services.