In this post, we identify the difference between brick masonry and stone masonry, 15 differences in particular.
Brick masonry is assembled by positioning bricks in a systemic method using mortar, giving a highly durable construction. The holes in the bricks allow the mortar to fill the gaps and interlock the bricks forming a strong connection.
Stone masonry is a method used to create structures using stone as the direct material. The stones are placed into accurate geometric patterns and form a structure using mortar. Due to the natural production of stone, although they can be manually shaped, they produce a less rigid appearance and give structures a greater emphasis.
Lets find out the differences between brick masonry and stone masonry.
| No. | Feature | Brick Masonry | Stone Masonry |
| 1 | Appearance | Elegant appearance, used in residential and commercial buildings. | Large appearance, hence used for colossal works, temples, bridges, etc. |
| 2 | Strength | Good compressive strength. The main reason bricks are not used for skyscrapers is due to balance, not bricks compressive strength. | Very high compressive strength. |
| 3 | Durability | Fairly durable and moderate long life. | Very durable and long-lasting. |
| 4 | Moisture Absorption | Naturally absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. | Does not absorb moisture |
| 5 | Cost of construction | Cheaper | More costly |
| 6 | Maintenance cost | More costly | Cheaper |
| 7 | Fire Resistance | Higher fire resistance | Fair fire resistance |
| 8 | Availability | Bricks are manufactured using clay | Stones are naturally made and obtained from quarries |
| 9 | Skill Level Required | Semi-skilled labour is required | High skilled labour is required. |
| 10 | Handling | Handling is straightforward | Handling is difficult |
| 11 | Amount of Mortar Required | Less | More – Stones are naturally larger than brick |
| 12 | Wall Thickness | Can construct thinner wall thicknesses | Difficult to construct walls of thicknesses less than 30 cm |
| 13 | Lifting Devices Needed? | No | Yes – Special lifting device required |
| 14 | Dead Load | More | Less |