{Re}habitat

Masonry anchorage and reinforcing perform the critical function of adding strength to masonry, either by transferring forces to the structure or by directly contributing resistance to applied loads. These systems are usually concealed within the masonry and therefore must be selected to resist corrosion, which could lead to catastrophic failure. Replacement of materials built into or embedded in masonry work is a very expensive and disruptive process.

This topic includes information related to masonry grout used during construction. Masonry grout is a construction material that is applied as a thick liquid, which hardens over time. Masonry grout is composed of water, cement, sand, color tint and possible fine gravel. Commonly, masonry grout is used around rebar in masonry assemblies, between concrete assemblies, in joints and voids.

Although in ancient times masonry was often erected without mortar, the Romans discovered the benefit of using cement in making mortar to produce masonry structures which were stronger and more durable.

Contemporary Masonry Mortar is composed of cement, lime, sand, and water. The quality of the mortar depends upon the quality of its constituent parts, and the proportion of each affects the physical properties of the mortar. Each ingredient brings something different to the mix. Cement gives mortar its strength and durability; lime provides water retention, set control, and elasticity; sand acts as an inexpensive filler; and water contributes plasticity. Entrained air in the cement improves the mortar's resistance to freeze and thaw cycles.

This topic covers information related to the maintenance of refractory masonry units, commonly known as firebrick. Refractory masonry units are a durable material, that retains its strength and properties when exposed to high temperatures. Similar to standard masonry units, refractory masonry can become damaged over time. Regular inspections of existing conditions look for potential fire hazards where mortar is missing or masonry is cracked and define what care needs be applied; general maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, replacement, restoration or preservation.
maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, replacement, restoration, preservation of masonry.

This topic covers information related to the maintenance of stone assemblies, that occurs during the life cycle of a structure. Stone assemblies are a durable material that has a long life expectancy. After construction and during the life cycle of a building stone assemblies should be inspected for damage, deterioration and cracking. Maintenance and/or repairs may be necessary depending on the condition of the stone assembly. Neglected stone assemblies may need to rehabilitated, replaced, restored or preserved.

The concrete slab-on-grade is an economical and durable structure, suitable for a variety of floors and foundations.  The slabs are usually reinforced, and various types of joints are used to control cracking due to shrinkage of the concrete.  The tendency to shrink also leads to curling (distortion of a slab in a curved shape), primarily at the joints and at the slab's perimeter, but good choices and practices will minimize this problem.  Vapor barriers and sheets of polystyrene for insulation can be installed between the slab and the grade.

This topic covers information related to the maintenance of masonry units, that occurs during the life cycle of a structure. Masonry units are a durable a material however can be significantly damaged from water intrusion and/or lack of care over time. Regular inspections of existing conditions define what care needs be applied; general maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, replacement, restoration or preservation.

This topic covers information related to the maintenance of masonry, that occurs during the life cycle of a structure. Masonry is a durable material that has a long life expectancy. After construction and during the life cycle of a building masonry walls should be inspected for damage, deterioration and cracking. Maintenance and/or repairs may be necessary depending on the condition of the masonry units and mortar at vertical walls, chimneys, parapet walls, lintels, flashing and weep holes. Neglected masonry construction may need to be rehabilitated, replaced, restored or preserved.