Masonry Construction MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Ashlar masonry uses finely dressed stones with very thin joints, about 3 mm.

Step-by-step solution

1. Look for masonry made of carefully dressed stones. 2. Very thin, uniform joints (about 3 mm) are a feature of ashlar masonry. 3. So the answer is (D).

Explanation

In ashlar masonry, each stone is dressed accurately to a proper shape and size. Because of this, the joints are very thin and uniform. It is the best and costliest type of stone masonry.

Why the other options are wrong

A: Random rubble uses undressed or roughly dressed stones with thick joints. B: Uncoursed masonry is not laid in regular layers and its joints are not thin. C: Coursed rubble has stones laid in courses, but they are only roughly dressed with thicker joints.

Shortcut

Finely dressed stone + thin joints = Ashlar.

Common mistake

Choosing coursed masonry just because the stones are laid in layers.