CMA INTRODUCES BLOCK MASONS’ SITE MANUAL:
Article Date: 12 March 2008
 The Concrete Manufacturers Association (CMA) has published a ‘Block Masons’ Site Manual’. Over 80 pages of practical information, its chief objective is to improve the understanding of modular masonry construction and to promote its correct implementation through good building practice.
Compiled and co-edited by masonry consultant, Günter Koch, the manual is aimed at both skilled and unskilled brick layers, providing guidance in building to specified standards.
Koch says much of the detail provided in the manual is based on internationally accepted modular masonry standards.
The first section illustrates block laying technique using 51 photographs. These cover all aspects of block laying technique, including block module spacing, the positioning of first corner blocks, and alignment, among others. Jointing and various plastering techniques are also covered.
The next section covers modular planning, block types and their modular dimensions, as well as the design of a modular 40m² house. Several bonding patterns are demonstrated, including stretcher bond, stack bond, quarter bond and others. Wall sections with modular dimensions and wall pier options are also illustrated here.
Footings and foundations are covered in the third section, and layout and detailing in the next. Layout and detailing is broken down into the following headings:
• Corners
• Wall dimensions
• Intersecting walls
• Lintels and reveals
• Coping and piers
• Closing cavities
• Fire protection of steel columns
• Control joints
• Reinforcing of block work
Thereafter, the manual covers services in block work, roof and floor fixing, partition walls, under floor slabs, trusses and rafters, the 140mm modular walling system, and exterior/interior skim plaster. The penultimate section, headed ‘Key technical information’ covers building hints, lime in masonry construction, and characteristic compressive strength information.
The final three pages are devoted to 55 definitions and these cover all aspects of the technical terminology covered in the preceding pages.
Koch says one of the recurring problems in South African modular masonry is to be found in making the proper selection of mortar and plaster aggregates, as these differ from region to region.
“This requires local knowledge and experience in selecting the correct proportioning and mixing procedures, as well as in curing properties and correct application.”
For a free copy of the publication contact Pam Zukor on (011) 805 6742 or via email on main.cma@gmail.com .
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