Process of Brick Masonry Column Construction
Masonry columns play a crucial role as load-bearing elements in structural designs. They not only provide structural stability but also add architectural beauty to a building.
In this blog post, we will explore the process of constructing reinforced and unreinforced brick masonry columns. We will discuss the features of brick masonry columns, the construction process, and the advantages they offer over concrete columns.
A. Features of Brick Masonry Columns:
Brick masonry columns offer several features that make them a popular choice in construction projects:
- Architectural Beauty: Constructing brick columns enhances the visual appeal of a structure. They can be designed in various shapes, including round, rectangular, square, or elliptical, and can be built to the desired height. Brick columns can serve as corner pillars, porch columns, boundary gate pillars, or standalone columns, adding elegance to the overall design.
- Easy and Economical Construction: Building brick columns requires fewer tools and labor compared to concrete columns, making it a more cost-effective option. Additionally, the construction process is relatively fast, allowing for efficient project completion.
B. Process of Construction of a Brick Column:
a. Unreinforced Brick Column Construction:
Preparing Layout on the Ground:
To begin the construction, mark the center and position of the pillar or column on the ground using a temporary rod. This marker helps maintain vertical and horizontal alignment with adjacent pillars.
Excavation and Foundation:
Excavate the ground to create the foundation for the column. The excavation depth depends on the masonry construction type and foundation thickness. If no reinforcement is required, a concrete bed of suitable mix is poured into the excavated area, ensuring the marker rod projects outside.
Brickwork for Masonry Column:
Once the foundation layer has dried, begin the brickwork. Use first-class bricks and a cement mortar mix in a ratio of 1:4. Wet the bricks by dipping them in water before laying them. Maintain verticality and horizontal alignment by using a plumb bob and compass. In cases with high moisture conditions, consider incorporating a damp-proof layer.
Curing Works:
Properly cure the brickwork for 7 to 10 days to ensure its strength and durability.
Plastering, Finishing, and Painting:
Most brick column constructions do not require plastering, as they possess an appealing appearance on their own. However, if desired, plaster the columns and apply finishing touches. Additionally, you can paint them to suit your aesthetic preferences.
C. Reinforced Brick Columns:
Reinforced brick columns offer enhanced load-bearing capacity. The process of constructing reinforced brick columns involves incorporating reinforcement into the masonry. Special grooved bricks are used to accommodate the placement of reinforcement bars. The cavity space through which the reinforcement passes is then filled with grout or mortar, creating a monolithic structure.
Brick masonry columns provide structural strength and aesthetic appeal to a building. Whether you opt for reinforced or unreinforced construction, the process involves careful planning, proper foundation work, precise bricklaying, and appropriate curing.
By understanding the construction process and the features of brick masonry columns, you can create robust and visually appealing structures that stand the test of time.