ZIMSEC O Level · Building Technology and Design · Form 2, Form 3
Functions of walls
Carry loads, divide space, give privacy and security, keep out weather and provide insulation.
Bonding
Bricks are laid so vertical joints do not line up (breaking the joint), which spreads loads and strengthens the wall.
- Stretcher bond: all stretchers (long faces) showing; for half-brick walls.
- English bond: alternate courses of headers and stretchers; very strong.
- Flemish bond: headers and stretchers alternate in each course; attractive.
Bricklaying
- Spread a mortar bed about 10 mm thick; joints about 10 mm.
- Build up corners (leads) first using a gauge rod and spirit level, then fill in using a builder's line.
- Check walls are plumb (vertical), level and straight.
Tools
Trowel, spirit level, plumb bob, builder's line and pins, gauge rod, brick hammer, bolster and club hammer, jointer.
Openings
Lintels (reinforced concrete) span door and window openings and carry the wall above. Window and door frames are fixed with ties.
Exam tip: Sketch the bonds – two or three courses with headers and stretchers clearly shown.
Check yourself
- Why are vertical joints staggered in brickwork?
- Describe English bond.
- What carries the wall above a window opening?
Show answers
- To spread the load and make the wall stronger (avoid straight cracks).
- Alternate courses of headers and stretchers.
- A lintel.
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