Brick columns have long been a crucial part of both conventional and contemporary construction. A brick column is a vertically shaped structure used as a load-bearing element for construction.
The increased demand for eco-friendly and budget-friendly techniques makes brick columns a reliable choice in the construction industry. Want to make the most out of a brick column? You must know the basics of brick columns and how they work to make smart decisions. To grab more insights about brick columns and types of columns, continue reading the content below.
What is a Brick Column?
When bricks are stacked one over the other in a specific pattern and bound with cement mortar to create a vertical structure known as a brick column. These piles of bricks carry the load of a beam, roof, or any other part to the ground safely.
The fundamental uses of brick columns include decorations, arches, and other related construction. Basically, the brick columns are in a straight shape, but today they are constructed in different shapes like square, elliptical, rectangular, etc. They provide strength, structural support, and style together.
Each construction requires specific load-bearing capacity and strength to construct those brick columns. Some brick columns are intended for functional purposes, whereas others are built for enhancing beauty. No matter the appeal, they are a smart way to combine strength and style.
Types of Brick Columns
Each type of brick column has its unique implementation and results. Check out its types below.
Solid Brick Columns
The solid brick column is a load-bearing type which is easy to build in various shapes, like square, rectangular, circular, octagonal, etc., In this process, bricks are bonded with mortar in between each layer carefully.
Hollow Brick Columns
Hollow brick columns are constructed using specially designed hollow blocks. This type of column is commonly applicable in low-rise buildings or structures where the load-bearing capacity is less required. The materials typically used in hollow bricks make the structure less weighty than solid brick columns, thus reducing the dead load on brick foundations.
Reinforced Brick Columns
The reinforced brick columns are designed to run the steel bars vertically in order to increase tensile strength and make them resistant to cracks. It helps to prevent buckling and carries minimal load strength. A few qualified methods to implement reinforced brick columns are steel jacketing, concrete jacketing, internal reinforcements, etc.
Benefits of Brick Columns
Durable and Sustainable Solution
As brick columns are constructed with the help of strong bricks, they are capable of withstanding almost all ranges of climatic conditions. On the flip side, the natural raw materials of the brick make it a sustainable material. These aspects make brick columns extremely durable and let them last over generations.
Requires Less Maintenance
Unlike wood or steel, bricks don’t rust, corrode, rot, or get damaged by pests like termites as years pass by. Hence, a brick column is super easy to maintain when compared to its alternatives. This turned brick columns into a reliable and cost-effective choice for buildings.
Safeguard from Extreme Weather
Heavy rain, wind, or extremely high temperature? No worries! The non-combustible nature of the brick prevents your building from fire and other normal calamities. This makes brick columns perfect for structures that are exposed to varied weather conditions.
Structural Integrity
Be it low-rise or mid-rise buildings, brick columns provide strong support to the structure by contributing to the overall structural integrity of the building. A thoughtfully planned brick column can bear vertical loads and serve its purpose effectively without much effort.
Drawbacks of Brick Columns
- The negative impact of brick columns is that they bear moderate loads and are suitable only for certain levels of load-bearing components.
- There is a high possibility for masonry bricks to absorb water, which results in dampness.
- Moreover, maintaining costs is also one of the toughest parts for brick columns.
Applications of Brick Columns
- Aesthetic Decors: Brick columns give a classy look to a space. Hence, they are often used in arches, gateways, and pillars to add a natural texture. When brick columns are paired with masonry walls, they enhance aesthetics and spread a feel that never goes out of style.
- Roofs and Floors: Brick columns are also chosen to support roofs and floors in buildings. They help to carry the load from beams, roofs, and frames to the foundation. These are perfect for homes and smaller spaces, whereas multi-story buildings may require some extra effort to handle heavier loads.
- Masonry Walls: In places like apartments or multistorey buildings, these brick columns play a major role in supporting masonry structures. It avoids buckling and acts with high strength to support all types of winds or loads.
Design Considerations
- Brick Column Size: Consider the minimum recommended size of the brick to plan your brick column size. For instance, larger cross-sections are good for taller columns or obtaining high load-bearing capacity.
- Load-Bearing Capacity: It is very important to calculate the live load, dead load, and any other lateral forces that a brick column can hold. Also, confirm that the brick type and mortar mix can bear the load of the structure planned.
- Reinforcement: Rebars enhance the tensile and shear strength of brick columns, which are otherwise weak in tension. It is essential to provide reinforcement in areas where earthquakes and thunderstorms may occur frequently. You must consider these seismic areas before implementing brick columns.
- First-class Materials: Use first-class bricks and high-strength mortar for constructing brick columns to ensure they withstand structural loads and remain durable over the years. Always maintain proper standards and prioritize quality to achieve long-lasting, reliable construction.
Brick Column Construction
The common steps to be followed for brick column construction are as follows.
Step 1: First, create a space for the foundation and set the concrete pad depending on the column load.
Step 2: Based on the dimensions, mark the column layout to define the shape and start building.
Step 3: Place vertical steel bars to get sufficient anchorage as per the design.
Step 4: Now start applying mortar and lay bricks one by one to attain the structure planned.
Step 5: Take advantage of equipment such as a plumb bob and spirit level to keep up vertical alignment and correct spacing.
Step 6: Insert lateral ties or reinforcement bands to combine layers and increase resistance.
Step 7: Keep laying the bricks until you reach the desired height while checking alignment at regular intervals.
Step 8: Once done, remove the formwork set around the column and start curing the brick column constructed with water for a minimum of one week to ensure strength.
Summing Up
Brick columns always provide efficient structure for buildings. Brick columns also have a decent load-bearing capacity for vertical loads due to their ability to withstand compressive stress. Therefore, we highly recommend implementing brick columns in your future construction. It is most suitable for both modern and traditional designs. Choosing a brick column is a wise decision for your desired construction, as it serves as a versatile option!
Apoorva H P Achar