Masonry entails the art and craft of building using clay, stone, brick and other varying materials. It is often deemed an art or science that has been in use since the medieval times in the building of monumental structures such as the Great Wall of China and the phenomenal pyramids in Egypt.
Masonry is thus a building process that has been used over an extended period since the ancient times. This type of building technique has gained traction due to its unique design, leading to increased and growing popularity. This article looks at the various types of common masonry materials, which you ought to consider for use in your home.
- Brick
Brick has been very popular since the old times hence it is very central and pivotal in every discussion regarding masonry materials. This is because it is the most preferred mode of construction when it comes to masonry building. Many reputable builders therefore use this masonry material since it is has been well proven for thousands of years. It has many benefits, as it is resistant to wind and fire hence it cannot be ruined by these elements. Another advantage is that it is very instrumental in the control of moisture.
More so, it has also been famed for its energy efficiency thus proving to be a very good fit for use as a masonry material in your home. However, brick is very bulky and heavy hence it can exert a lot of stress and pressure on the constructed foundation or structure and the consequent repair of the damage caused is very pricey.
- Precast Concrete
Precast concrete blocks are very huge and dense. This culminates into very quick erection of the walls. The concrete blocks are a very good insulation material. Any additional maintenance and utility costs are significantly reduced. They are also cost effective and very fitting for bigger projects thus rendering them exceedingly popular.
- Stucco
Just like brick, stucco is also not prone to damage. It is highly resistant to fire and wind and it is very durable. However, it entails a very alarming concern of a pile up of moisture, which occurs on the downward slopes. The other downside is that this material also includes some very mucky work.
- Natural Rock and Stone
Similarly, this material is fire resistant and moisture free hence, there is no accumulation of the same. It has proven to be very firm and it has been defying varying elements for multiple times. A structure made of natural rock and stone that has been erected properly can last and be upright for many years. This is attributed to its durability. It is never affected by the daily conditions that result to severe wear and tear as is common in other types of masonry materials. It is very strong and it has the potential to withstand most conditions whether minor, extreme or adverse such as wind, snow or rain among others.
More so, it is very appealing as it entails varying colors that you can choose from. Unlike stucco, it involves minimal maintenance work. Generally, you can be very flexible with natural rock or stone hence the outcome can be solely predicated on your versatility and the scope of your creativity.
- Block Masonry
There are several types of block masonry, which include solid concrete, hollow concrete and AAC autoclaved concrete block masonry. Solid concrete blocks have become very popular in recent times as they provide very good stability. Hollow concrete masonry significantly diminishes the overall weight of a given structure and the number of joints being used. AAC autoclaved block masonry entails a lightweight but surprisingly durable building material that is eco-friendly as it uses fly ash. In short, the bigger or larger these blocks are, the faster the masonry work.
The foregoing clearly highlights the various types of masonry materials that you can consider for use in the construction of your house. Brick, precast concrete, natural stone, and block masonry all make great masonry materials that you can consider for your house. Their pros and cons have also been clearly postulated in order to make sure that you make a perfect decision. However, it is prudent for you to liaise with a professional masonry contractor who should properly advise you on the best possible material that is ideal for your house based on your unique preferences and style. Technology is constantly changing, leading to the innovation of new and modern masonry materials but the aforementioned building materials are still phenomenal as they have not become obsolete.