Products and Properties
Masonry Home > Products
and Properties  Masonry
units are available in sizes, shapes, colors, textures, and profiles
for practically every conceivable need. Historically, units came
from a variety of sources and included materials such as rock and
stone, either natural or cut. Today, units most commonly used are
concrete block or clay
brick, offering standardized sizes and mechanical properties.
The units are joined together by mortars
made from a binder consisting of one or more cements
for masonry, sand, and water. Portland
cement plaster, or stucco, is made
from the same material as mortars, and as such, is sometimes considered
to be a masonry product as well.
Masonry is widely used to construct small and large structures
because of its attractive appearance, minimum maintenance, safety
(fire resistance and wind/earthquake
resistance), and economy. Masonry provides an effective barrier
to sound and reduces internal temperature variations and peak loads
on heating and cooling systems. It provides architectural freedom
and versatility with striking aesthetic appeal. Almost any shape
of structure is possible.
Masonry also resists weathering and vandalism. The durability and
minimum maintenance extend a building’s useful life, providing
an enduring, high-quality appearance.
Fire Resistance
The following case studies show the fire resistance qualities that
masonry can offer and several articles address related codes and
standards issues.
Storm/Earthquake Resistance
View one of the following case studies showing the Wind/Earthquake resistance qualities that masonry can offer.
| Masonry Products |
| Modern masonry products include portland cement plaster (stucco), cements for masonry, mortars, concrete block, and clay brick. These materials can be used on the interior or exterior of structures in a wide range of environments. Load-bearing walls serve a structural purpose, while veneers and claddings, frequently used as architectural finishes, also function as weather barriers. Whichever materials are used, modern masonry construction provides durability, safety, aesthetic appeal, and other benefits in a cost-effective manner.
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Portland Cement Plaster (Stucco) |
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Cements for Masonry |
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Mortar & Grout |
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Concrete Masonry Units |
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Brick |
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