INTRODUCTION OF LOAD BEARING BRICK WORK

 Load bearing brick work refers to walls constructed using bricks that support the
structure loads of a building including the weight of floors, roofs & the structure
above.
 Unlike framed structure where beams and column carry load in load bearing system
the walls carry this load.

Components of Load – Bearing Brickwork

1. Bricks:- usually solid clay bricks or fly ash bricks.
2. Mortar:- A mix of cement, sand used to bond bricks common rations including 1:4
or 1:6 ( cement : sand ).
3. Plinth Beam:- sometime used at the base for extra support.
4. Foundation:- Generally strip footing or stepped footing under load bearing walls.

Construction Aspects
1. Wall Thickness:-
External walls:- 230mm (9inches) or more.
Internal load-Bearing walls:- Typically 230mm or 115mm depending on design.
2. Opening:-
Lintel ( concrete or wooden ) are used above doors & windows to transfer the load.
3. Reinforcement ( if needed ):-
Horizontal or vertical reinforcement may be added in seimic zones or for taller building.
4. Curing:-
Important for strength development brickwork is typically cured for 7-10 days.

Advantages
 Cost effective for low rise building.
 Easy to construct with local materials.
 Good thermal mass.
 Fire resistant.

Limitation
 Not ideal for high rise building. ( usually limited to 2-3 storeys )
 Slow construction compared to precast or framed structure.
 Higher dead load compared to framed structure.