There is often a public perception masonry can be expensive. Usually this can be countered by more thoroughly communicating the ways in which upfront costs are recouped in the form of lower maintenance costs during the lifecycle of the building. Frequently, too, the impression masonry is a slow building method may be exaggerated.
However, it is true masonry is a somewhat temperamental building material. If construction
is underway in the winter, care must be taken so the water in the mortar does not freeze. To ensure this, areas in which work is being performed may be tented with plastic sheeting and heated with space heaters. However, given the fact most school construction is timed to occur, to the extent possible, in the summer months between school years, this problem is partially offset.
In warmer months, rain can wash out mortar, which also requires extra care to be taken on the jobsite. As with the work slowdowns attributable to coordination between the trades, these logistics problems can be partially alleviated by careful upfront planning—a fact that should be communicated to the taxpaying public.
The benefits of masonry are likely to ensure its continued use. Since a key part of design is to anticipate and respect construction processes, architects and designers are responsible for early analysis of any chosen building material or system. By addressing issues early, any constraints that masonry may impose on the jobsite can be greatly reduced.
Joe Noser, PE, is the director of structural engineering for Columbus, Ohio-based firm, SMBH Inc. He is active in the Structural Engineers Association of Ohio (SEAoO) and American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Noser can be reached at jnoser@smbhinc.com.
I completely agree with you that masonry is the ideal form of construction for educational buildings. It often is more durable than other types of building materials and is mold and fire resistant. I personally like the look of brick. It reminds me of my grandparents old house and many fond memories there.