When taking on a commercial construction project, the type of material used is critical in ensuring the structure stands the test of time. One material renowned for its durability is masonry, with various options. Whether you are building from scratch, expanding an existing structure, or just making some improvements, the type of masonry you select can play a major role in the project’s success.
Understanding the different types of commercial masonry and how to pick the right one is essential. Here’s what you need to know about each masonry type:
Stone Masonry
Stone masonry is popular for commercial buildings and provides an attractive, rustic look. There are two main ways of using it for construction: ashlar masonry, which involves cutting stones into consistent shapes, and rubble masonry, which involves using uncut or lightly chiseled stones. This allows for a unique, natural appearance while still being structurally sound.
Constructing with stone can be pricier than using bricks, depending on the specific stone chosen for the project.
Brick Masonry
Brick masonry is a popular choice for many commercial and residential structures due to its durability and various colors. It is constructed in three ways: solid walls, cavity walls, and veneer walls.
Solid walls are made of two layers of brick, while cavity walls consist of an outer layer of brick and an inner layer of something strong like concrete. Veneer walls are single-layered and are usually used as a decorative external surface.
Bricks are generally composed of clay, though other materials can be used in certain situations. An experienced professional can help you decide which material will best suit your needs, such as lime, concrete, or something else.
Concrete Masonry
Concrete is an incredibly strong and durable material often used in construction projects. It is great for building foundations and walls but usually isn’t the best choice regarding the overall aesthetic of a building. Concrete is often used with other materials, such as brick, to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing look. Despite its lack of charm, concrete is still a very reliable and resilient material that can be used to build sturdy structures.
Solid blocks are more expensive for masonry construction as they require more material. They are, however, much sturdier and more resilient to cracking. Hollow blocks are a cost-effective choice, but they are slightly more vulnerable to damage.
Stucco Masonry
Stucco is a plaster-like material made of cement, sand, and water, covering the buildings’ exterior walls. It has a unique look and is usually seen in neutral shades like tan, beige, and brown. However, there are now more options for color variation, with many shades, such as pink, green, and blue available.
Stucco masonry takes longer to dry out than other building materials, so it needs to be used in areas with a dry climate and can avoid bad weather for a bit. Even though it takes longer to dry, it gives you a very strong and long-lasting building.
Conclusion
Masonry is an important material used in commercial construction and can be used to build various structures, such as commercial buildings, retail stores, and warehouses. Many types of masonry are used in commercial construction, including brick, concrete, and stone. Each type of masonry has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider these factors when deciding which type of masonry is best for a particular project.
Forza Construction Services is comprised of highly experienced commercial construction professionals with decades of experience in the field. By specializing in building envelope and exterior finish construction, our highly-skilled team is focused on each project from planning through completion. If you need masonry contractors in Tulsa, OK, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help!