Written by Whitni Mungin
This workshop helped me refresh my knowledge on masonry construction and helped me appreciate the work masons do.
On August 17, I had an opportunity to spend half a day learning about masonry construction with the Illinois Chapter of the National Minority Architects hosted by the International Masonry Institute. When this opportunity first came across my email as a hands-on learning experience, I immediately dismissed it for one simple reason: VANITY! I didn’t want to get dirty. How can one work in the construction industry and not get dirty? I pushed my reservations aside, and with the confirmation of an include free lunch, I decided that as a woman in construction this was a one-of-a-kind opportunity to spend some time out of the office getting dirty and expanding my knowledge. Boy, am I glad I did!
The following are my takeaways from the experience.
The following are my takeaways from the experience.
I Will Stick with Pb and J
In my previous life as an architectural associate, I drafted hundreds of masonry wall sections, spent many hours studying masonry wall failures, and reviewed masonry construction on site. I can’t claim expert status, but I know a thing or two about masonry construction from the technical and specifications side. I also know how to make an amazing PB and J with the right amount of jelly to peanut butter ratio. I stood in front of two freshly laid rows of brick with trowel in hand thinking about sandwiches and bricks. After watching the instructor scoop mortar, spread it on the wall and place the brick, I thought: "I can do this, right?" I awkwardly scooped the mortar and attempted to “roll” it and proceeded with the five remaining detailed steps, which included buttering the end of the brick. I set the brick, “leveled it” (as far as I was concerned it was level), and spent about 10 minutes laying approximately eight bricks. For a first time, I give myself a 5/10. I also concluded that I will stick to PB and J.
The Classics Are Classic for a Reason
Humans have been shaping space through masonry construction for centuries. As such, the current perception is that masonry is old technology, but I learned that is not true. There are green technologies as well as new ways to incorporate masonry in high-rise buildings. The International Masonry Institute will even review drawings for opportunities to value engineer a project because of advances that reduce the amount of reinforcement needed in some masonry walls. I also was reminded that classic construction is so for a reason. Using bond beams versus steel lintels is a proven better way to frame openings. Think about the buildings that have been around for hundreds of years before steel.
I am glad I took the time to re-learn about masonry construction. I appreciated the free brownies as a part of my lunch, but more than that, I was excited about remembering all that I had forgotten after being out of the field for so many years. Even better, I was able to learn about advances in an industry that is overshadowed by the sleekness of glass and steel and the quickness of wood frame. My conclusion: brick work is hard, and I salute all the masons because they make it look easy!
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Whitni is a Project Manager with Urban Equities. She is inspired by creating sustainable change in communities through development. When not working, Whitni is active volunteering in several organizations or enjoying the Chicago lake front.
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