Which of the following is/are true for brick masonry in comparison to stone masonry?
- AStronger for same wall thickness
- BHigher life
- CMaintenance cost is moreCorrect
- DMore water tightness
Solution
Concept
Comparison of properties between brick masonry and stone masonry in terms of strength, durability, cost, and maintenance.
Step-by-step solution
1. Analyze the properties of brick masonry versus stone masonry. 2. Stone masonry typically offers higher life, better water tightness, and greater structural strength for equivalent massive construction, while requiring less maintenance. 3. Brick masonry has numerous mortar joints, making it prone to weathering and requiring higher maintenance costs (C is correct). 4. Options A, B, and D describe advantages of stone masonry over brick masonry, making them incorrect for brick masonry.
Explanation
Brick masonry requires more maintenance (like painting or pointing of mortar joints) compared to good quality stone masonry due to the larger number of mortar joints and higher porosity of bricks. Stone masonry generally has a higher life, better water tightness, and is stronger, but brickwork is cheaper and easier to construct.
Why the other options are wrong
A: Stone masonry is generally stronger for massive structures. B: Stone masonry has a higher life span than brick masonry. D: Stone masonry provides better water tightness due to fewer and denser joints.
Shortcut
Remember: Stones last longer and need less maintenance, but bricks are cheaper and faster to build.
Common mistake
Confusing initial construction cost with maintenance cost and durability.
Correct answer: C) Maintenance cost is more