REINFORCED BRICK MASONRY

Ordinary brick masonry can not take tensile stresses as the mortar joints separate out and the bricks pulled out. In order to increase the load-carrying capacity, in particular tensile stresses, of ordinary brick masonry steel reinforcement is introduced in between mortar joints. This type of construction can withstand tensile and shear stresses for moderate loading.

Reinforced brick masonry is recommended in the following cases:

1. When excessive compressive loads are to be supported
2. When the brickwork has to withstand tensile and shear stresses
3. When the supporting soil may be subjected to differential settlement
4. When the brick masonry is to be provided over openings of doors, windows and passages
5. When the brick masonry has to sustain lateral stress
6. When it is intended to strengthen the longitudinal bond
7. When constructions in earthquake-prone areas are to be made

The following points should be kept in mind:

1. All the bricks should be structurally sound and of uniform size.
2. In order to bond the brickwork, a cement mortar of 1: 3 should be used.
3. The joints have to be constructed carefully such that the reinforcement gets sufficient cover and is also prevented from corrosion.

Typical reinforced brick masonry are discussed below.