Brickwork is a fundamental aspect of construction, forming the structural and aesthetic core of many buildings. For Quantity Surveyors, understanding the terminology associated with brickwork is essential for accurate cost estimation, material specification, and project management. Here are 15 key brickwork terms to know:
- Brick Bond
Brick bond refers to the pattern in which bricks are laid to ensure strength and stability. Common bonds include stretcher bond, English bond, Flemish bond, and header bond. - Mortar
Mortar is a mixture of cement, lime, sand, and water used to bind bricks together, provide strength, and fill gaps between bricks. - Course
A course is a single horizontal layer of bricks in a wall. Courses are laid in succession to form the structure. - Header
A header is a brick laid with its shorter side (end) visible on the face of the wall. Headers are commonly used in bonding patterns. - Stretcher
A stretcher is a brick laid with its longer side visible on the face of the wall. Stretchers are the most common orientation in modern construction. - Quoin
Quoins are the external corners or angles of a brick wall. Quoin bricks are often used decoratively and structurally to strengthen the wall. - Bed Joint
The bed joint is the horizontal layer of mortar on which bricks are laid. Properly levelled bed joints ensure even weight distribution. - Soldier Course
A soldier course consists of bricks laid vertically with their long, narrow sides facing out. This is often used for decorative purposes or above openings. - Coping
Coping refers to the protective layer or cap placed on top of a wall to prevent water penetration. Coping can be made of bricks, stone, or other materials. - Efflorescence
Efflorescence is the white, powdery deposit of salts that can appear on the surface of brickwork due to water evaporation. It can affect appearance but is not structurally harmful. - Weep Hole
Weep holes are small openings left in the mortar joints of a brick wall to allow water to drain out, preventing moisture build-up within the wall cavity. - Facing Brick
Facing bricks are high-quality bricks with a uniform appearance used on the visible surface of walls for aesthetic purposes. - Common Brick
Common bricks are lower-grade bricks used for internal or non-visible parts of walls. They are less uniform in size and appearance. - Movement Joint
A movement joint is a gap in the brickwork filled with flexible material to accommodate expansion or contraction due to temperature changes or settling. - Brick Veneer
Brick veneer refers to a thin outer layer of brick used as cladding for walls, providing the appearance of solid brickwork without the weight or cost.
Mastering brickwork terminology is vital for quantity surveyors to accurately estimate materials and labour costs, specify construction methods, and ensure quality in masonry projects. By understanding these terms, quantity surveyors can effectively collaborate with contractors and contribute to the successful delivery of projects involving brickwork.
