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What are the Different Types of Brick Construction?
Brick construction is one of the longest-lasting and most secure ways to create a structure. There are many kinds of construction using bricks and many different products that can be created. Over the centuries, there have been many construction techniques created that facilitate many different structures, such as homes, fireplaces, walls and simple walkways or patios. Among the types of brick construction techniques are the Flemish bond, the stretcher bond, the thick header bond, the rat-trap bond, the herringbone bond and the rotating basket weave bond.
By far, the most common type of brick construction is the creation of walled structures. No matter whether the structure itself is a property-dividing wall or an entire mansion constructed of bricks, much thought and effort goes into each creation. Many homes utilize brick construction styles such as the Flemish bond, distinctive for its alternating brick laying, one-brick thickness and excellent strength. Single walls use a similar style of brick construction known as the stretcher bond, but this type of brick masonry is quicker, simpler and less sturdy than its Flemish cousin.
The brick fireplace is one of the most common types of brick construction. A brick fireplace is a source of warmth and enhances any room visually, but it also is one of the most difficult types of construction. These structures are built within a home, usually as it is being constructed. A stable brick fireplace has a foundation beginning in the basement and rises straight up past the roof. The thick header bond and rat-trap bond are popular construction style choices when making a fireplace.
Constructing a brick walkway or brick driveway is a popular method of adding long-lasting dependability and visual appeal to the grounds of a home. Bricks are laid into the ground so they can be walked or driven over. Patterns for bricks laid into the ground usually are more ornate, because they do not have to be as structurally perfect as with walls and fireplaces. Zig-zagging herringbone bonds and the rotating basket weave bonds are favorites for walkways and driveways.
Similar to a driveway, a brick patio provides a level, stable place for outdoor lounging. These brick construction structures normally are also embedded into the ground and use bold patterns, such as the basket weave and herringbone. These can be elevated by constructing several layers of brickwork, but they also will need steps to lead up to the landing.
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![A brick trowel and bricks.]()
A brick trowel and bricks. -
![Masonry blocks have been used in construction since 1882.]()
By: SerenethosMasonry blocks have been used in construction since 1882. -
![Walled structures are the most common type of brick construction.]()
By: dja65Walled structures are the most common type of brick construction.
Discussion Comments
Mud bricks are becoming more and more popular as a decent and environmentally sound building material. I've heard of people who built their own house with mud bricks, in fact. It takes forever, because they make each brick themselves. But it looks lovely, usually because the house is truly a part of the landscape around it.
I think they must have some cladding as well.
I know in some countries they just plaster more mud over the bricks, and continually patch it up after the rainy season.
But that would only work in countries where it didn't rain for most of the year. In countries where it does, the walls would dissolve really quickly.
Bricks are lovely, but you won't find them all over the world. In fact it's a pretty good way of telling whether or not a place is earthquake prone.
Because back in the day, wood was certainly cheaper, but it would catch on fire too easily. So eventually, most cities were remade into brick.
But, if, on the other hand, those cities were to have an earthquake every now and then, the brick houses would be destroyed and often the wooden houses were spared.
So, people quickly learned which material was suited to each place.
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