Loadbearing stone blocks
All About Loadbearing Stone Blocks
Load bearing masonry construction is assumed as one of the traditional mode of construction techniques in the world. Every element related to wall construction is a load bearing masonry structure which possesses the capacity to carry the load to the foundation which is further transferred to the soil. This load bearing technique is basically used in the construction of smaller residential building. This technique basically requires placement of masonry unit as a layer, one at a time. This unit is held together with the use of mortar that imparts strength and stability to the construction. Walls of the load bearing structure acts as elements that have the potentiality to withstand the load.
The load bearing structures are available in different texture, color and designs. These structures are basically constructed with the use of stone, brick or cements. This masonry element can be used for the construction of both interior and exterior walls. Load bearing stone masonry such as brickwork is considered as one of the versatile building option which is in limelight since second century AD. In the modern world, either used as composite load-bearing stone blocks for wall construction or can be used solely as a decorative cladding material which needs to be thicker in dimension.
When used as the composite load bearing element, it supports its own weight and even supports some of the proportional laterals loading. The selection of load bearing stone blocks is initialized to fetch aesthetic appeal for the construction and even safeguard the environment. As decorative cladding element, it is subjected as a bespoken design. The mechanical and chemical properties of stone blocks vary with the type as per the local geology. It is quite efficient in function as the compressive strength of stone is greater than concrete. Being an affordable option, it is even assumed as durable and strengthening element which is fire resistant too.
Load bearing stone blocks do not require any expensive maintenance and repair. But, it is important that walls should be strong enough to bear the load. So it needs to be constructed with the thickness of approximately nine inches or more. Howsoever, the mortar used is similar to Portland cement that is weaker in comparison to rocks. Deterioration of stone blocks is caused by chemical reaction, weathering of rocks, splitting, freezing, plant growth in the cracks, thermal contraction and relaxation and even by movement of soil behind the foundation. Therefore, frequent sealing should be done on the appearance of cracks.
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