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
View one of the following case studies showing the fire resistance qualities that masonry can offer.

• Fire Resistant Walls
• Urban Wildland Interface Fires 1990-1993
• Performance of Masonry at World Trade Center
• Fire-Safe Buildings and Masonry Codes
• How One Home Survived the California Wildfires
• New Standard for Calculating Fire Resistance
• Non-Combustible Concrete Construction

Wind/Earthquake Resistance
View one of the following case studies showing the Wind/Earthquake resistance qualities that masonry can offer.

• Trial by Earthquake, Fire and Wind
• Performance of Roof Materials
• Performance of Masonry in the Northridge Earthquake

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.
	Portland Cement Plaster (Stucco)
	Cements for Masonry
	Mortar
	Concrete Masonry Units
	Brick