Bricks and Brickworks Quiz

What mortar is traditionally used with unfired clay bricks?

• Clay or moderately hydraulic lime mortar.

• Epoxy resin mortar.

• Portland cement mortar.

• Polymer-modified mortar.

What is a common property of concrete bricks?

• They are more flexible than clay bricks.

• They cannot be used for load-bearing walls.

• They are manufactured under high pressure from aggregates and cement.

• They are made from fired clay only.

Which types of bricks are classified based on freeze/thaw resistance?

• Soft mud bricks.

• Calcium silicate bricks.

• Concrete blocks.

What common property must masonry mortars have in comparison to bricks?

• To prevent water penetration entirely.

• To be stronger than the individual bricks.

• To have the same density as bricks.

• To be weaker than the individual bricks.

How are bricks traditionally fired during manufacturing?

• Using solar energy for efficiency.

• Underwater to enhance waterproof characteristics.

• At low temperatures for a quicker process.

• In kilns at high temperatures to achieve durability.

What is a major benefit of using recycled bricks in construction?

• They are always stronger than new bricks.

• They are cheaper and more readily available.

• They reduce material waste and environmental impact.

• They are uniformly sized for all applications.

What is a primary advantage of using unfired clay bricks for internal walls?

• They inhibit condensation and regulate relative humidity.

• They are cheaper than concrete bricks.

• They have high thermal insulation properties.

• They are stronger than fired clay bricks.

What material should wall ties be made from for optimal durability?

• Aluminium or lead.

• Copper or brass.

• Galvanised steel or stainless steel.

• Plastic or nylon.

What percentage of the brickwork surface area does mortar account for?

• 5%.

• 25%.

• 10%.

• 17%.

Which of the following is a disadvantage of using Portland cement mortar with brickwork?

• It makes recycling bricks difficult after demolition.

• It shrinks excessively during curing.

• It has a lower strength than lime mortar.

• It is too expensive for construction.