What Is Masonry Work? Types, Materials, and Practices

Masonry can easily boost the look and functionality of your outdoor space. Likewise, it can also increase your property value. Wondering what is masonry work? and what makes it so special? Discover the basics about this craft and technique, so you can start planning your next outdoor project.

Whether you are building a walkway, an exterior kitchen, or customizing a fire pit, by understanding this craft you can make a smart decision regarding your next masonry project. Moreover, it can help you choose the right company to take on the project.

What Is It? Definitions, Principles, and Benefits

In simple terms, masonry is a construction technique that stands by using mortar as a bonding material for bricks, stones, or concrete blocks.

This technique was widely used to build entire houses and large building structures in older times. Nowadays, however, mason workers are hired to construct decorative features such as retaining walls, walkways, entryways, fireplaces, pavers, chimneys, outdoor ovens, fountains, and more.

Besides being a craft, masonry requires a lot of skills and creativity, to the point of creating original and customized structures. For this reason, it is commonly referred to as art.

Besides being aesthetically attractive, masonry works are long-lasting, require low maintenance, are environmentally friendly, and offer endless possible shapes. Additionally, innovations have allowed the fabrication of fire-resistant materials ideal for building chimneys and fire pits.

Types of Masonry Work

There are several ways to classify masonry work, depending on the structure and the type of materials used to build it.

Based on the structure and method of construction, we can classify it as veneer and solid masonry. On the other hand, based on the material there are different types of masonry units (brick, concrete, and stone); each one involves specific procedures, techniques, and tools.

Veneer vs Solid Masonry Work

Veneer masonry is a purely aesthetic solution and not a structural one. With this method, you can achieve a masonry look in properties made out of different materials. For example, a real classic brick facade, without the walls of your house being originally made out of bricks.

Solid masonry is the most common method of masonry. Unlike veneer, this is a structural solution, meaning that the masonry units support the structure.

Brick Masonry

Brick masonry is the most popular type of masonry work based on the material. For a further understanding of what is brick masonry and why it is so popular, we must say that it stands out because each unit tends to be uniform, which makes them aesthetically pleasing to see.

Additionally, bricks are a very lightweight, durable, and low maintenance material, plus it is cheaper than stone. Decorative outdoor brick features add a rustic and natural touch to any patio or property.

There are several types of masonry bricks for specific purposes. For instance, fire bricks and refractory bricks, have qualities that allow them to resist very high temperatures. For this reason, these are ideal for the construction of stoves, furnaces, and chimneys.

One significant drawback of bricks is that it has a low tensile strength.  Bricks are not usually recommended for buildings in high seismic zones.

Concrete Masonry

Concrete blocks gained popularity in the late 19th century and early 20th century as a means of reducing weight and innovating construction materials.

This masonry unit has a lower cost than bricks; they offer many design options and are generally easy to install. If you want to take on DIY installation masonry projects, concrete blocks are the ideal masonry unit.

Stone Masonry

Stone can withstand wear, pressure, and damage. Unlike bricks, they are not uniform; however, nowadays, they come in different textures and sizes that allow gorgeous designs.

Natural stone is by far one of the most durable materials. Because of that, it requires very low maintenance. However, it is a little more expensive than brick and concrete. Likewise, it requires more labor and is time-consuming, which raises the cost even more.

Essential Tools for Building Masonry Structures

Masonry construction requires some skills and special tools. This depends on the masonry material that you are going to use (concrete, bricks, or stone) and the type of project a mason is going to build: As a general rule, these are the essential tools every mason should have:

• A Hammer
• Various types of trowels
• Saws
• Square
• Jointers
• Mixing tools
• Blocking chisels
• Mortar
• Brooms and brushes
• Concrete edgers and groovers
• Smothers and spreaders

Moreover, masons need to have the proper training and tools. Additionally, they must be aware of local and national masonry building code requirements locally and nationally.

Choose The Best Masonry Structures for Your Property

Now that you have a better understanding of what is masonry work, you can start planning your next outdoor upgrade. Think about adding a customized fire pit or a gorgeous stone fountain.

We always recommend choosing a feature that matches your patio design and lifestyle. For example, if your family enjoys hosting gatherings outdoors, you could build a concrete patio with a fire pit in the center or perhaps a beautiful outdoor fireplace.

Among the varied masonry projects you could choose for your outdoor space, here you have some ideas:

• Stone walls or pillars: enhance the curb appeal of your entire property with unique and customized stone pillars.
• Fireplaces or fire pits: create a cozy environment for friend and family gatherings during cold nights.
• Outdoor kitchens: Imagine having a kitchen’s comfort outdoors, allowing you not to miss anything of the party you’re hosting on your patio.
• Water features: this option will add a natural oasis appearance to your outdoors.
• Entrances: Make your property entrance stand out in the neighborhood with a beautiful mansion-looking masonry entrance.

Enhance Your Property with The Help of Masonry Works Contractors

When it comes to the installation process, you must know that this is a task that you should leave to professionals, as they have the right skills and experience to deliver outstanding results.

If you need masonry repair or plan a new upgrade to your property, you can receive guidance from our masonry contractors in Seattle, WA. We have helped home, and business owners beautify their properties for over 15 years.

Call us to request a quote!