6.2 Types of masonry walls
This section outlines the technical details related to masonry walls, piers, and damp-proof courses. When measuring masonry work, it is essential to specify the type and quality of materials, the bonding method, pointing or jointing techniques, and the mortar composition in the item descriptions.
There are various types of masonry walls, including solid walls, cavity walls and veneer walls, as illustrated in Figure 6.1.
When measuring different types of masonry walls, it is essential to accurately identify their dimensions and thicknesses.
The standard size of a brick is 230 mm in length, 110 mm in width, and 76 mm in height as illustrated in the image below (Figure 6.2).
Typical brick wall thicknesses (excluding finishes) are 110 mm for a half-brick wall and 230 mm for a one-brick wall.
In masonry construction, a 10 mm mortar joint is added to these dimensions. For example, the overall height of a brick including mortar is 86 mm as demonstrated in the calculation below:
76 mm (brick height) + 10 mm (mortar) = 86 mm
Blocks are generally available in three standard thicknesses: 90 mm, 140 mm, and 190 mm as shown in Figure 6.3. They commonly measure 390 mm in length and 190 mm in height. The following images show examples of some blocks:
There are various bonding patterns used in masonry walls. Table 6.1 illustrates the most common brick bonding patterns. Depending on the wall thickness and the desired aesthetic, the appropriate bonding pattern can be selected. Generally, stretcher bond is used for 110 mm walls, while Flemish or English bond is commonly employed for 230 mm walls.
| Brick Bonding Pattern | Description | Elevation | Isometric View |
| Stretcher bond | Only the longest side of the bricks (the stretcher face) is visible in the masonry work. |  |
 |
| Flemish bond
|
Stretchers and headers are arranged alternately within each course |  |
 |
| English bond | Alternating courses of stretchers and headers are used in the construction of the masonry wall. |  |
 |
Figure 6.4 outlines the most common types of joints used in masonry construction. These bonding patterns are used in facing brick walls, where the bricks are exposed on the surface.
Table 6.2 outlines the mix proportions by volume as specified in AS3700-2001. Depending on the type of wall and construction requirements, the mortar composition will be selected.
| Type | Cement | Lime | Sand |
| 1 | 1 | N/A | 5 |
| 2 | 1 | N/A | 4 |
| 3 | 1 | 1 | 6 |
| 4 | 1 | N/A | 5 |
| 5 | 1 | 0.5 | 4.5 |
| 6 | 1 | N/A | 4 |
Piers
According to standards, piers are defined as masonry walls where the plan length is less than or equal to four times the wall thickness, except where this is due to openings, as illustrated in Figure 6.5.
Damp proof course
The damp-proof course (DPC) acts as a barrier to prevent water from rising through masonry walls. According to Australian standards, the DPC should be installed at least 150 mm above ground level. Figure 6.6 illustrates how it is placed in a masonry cavity wall.
