Reinforced masonry is made up of bricks or stones that are held together with mortar. The bricks or stones are reinforced with steel rods or mesh, which helps to prevent the masonry from cracking or collapsing under stress.
Unreinforced masonry is made up of bricks or stones that are held together with mortar only. There is no steel reinforcement, which makes unreinforced masonry more susceptible to cracking or collapsing under stress.
Reinforced masonry is the preferred type of masonry construction for buildings in seismically active areas. This is because reinforced masonry is more resistant to earthquakes than unreinforced masonry. In an earthquake, the steel reinforcement in reinforced masonry helps to hold the bricks or stones together and prevent them from cracking or collapsing.
Unreinforced masonry is not recommended for buildings in seismically active areas. This is because unreinforced masonry is more likely to collapse in an earthquake. If you live in a seismically active area, it is important to make sure that your home or building is made of reinforced masonry.
In addition to being more resistant to earthquakes, reinforced masonry is also more durable than unreinforced masonry. This is because the steel reinforcement in reinforced masonry helps to prevent the masonry from cracking or spalling over time. Unreinforced masonry, on the other hand, is more likely to crack or spall over time, which can lead to water damage and structural problems.
If you are considering building a new home or building, it is important to choose the right type of masonry construction. If you live in a seismically active area, you should choose reinforced masonry. If you live in an area that is not seismically active, you may be able to get away with using unreinforced masonry. However, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits of each type of masonry construction before making a decision.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between reinforced masonry and unreinforced masonry:
| Feature | Reinforced Masonry | Unreinforced Masonry |
| Strength | Stronger | Weaker |
| Durability | More durable | Less durable |
| Resistance to earthquakes | More resistant | Less resistant |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Maintenance | Requires less maintenance | Requires more maintenance |
Ultimately, the best type of masonry construction for your home or building depends on a number of factors, including your budget, the seismic activity in your area, and your desired level of safety and durability. If you are unsure about which type of masonry construction is right for you, it is best to consult with a structural engineer.
Here are some additional things to consider when choosing between reinforced masonry and unreinforced masonry:
- The seismic activity in your area: If you live in a seismically active area, you should choose reinforced masonry. Unreinforced masonry is not recommended for buildings in seismically active areas.
- Your budget: Reinforced masonry is more expensive than unreinforced masonry. However, the added cost of reinforced masonry is often offset by the savings on maintenance and repairs.
- Your desired level of safety and durability: Reinforced masonry is stronger and more durable than unreinforced masonry. If you want the safest and most durable option, you should choose reinforced masonry.
- Your aesthetic preferences: Reinforced masonry and unreinforced masonry have different appearances. If you have strong aesthetic preferences, you may want to choose the type of masonry that you prefer the look of.
By carefully considering all of these factors, you can make the best decision for your home or building. If you are still unsure about which type of masonry construction is right for you, it is best to consult with a structural engineer.