maçonnerie

Maçonnerie is the craft of building with materials such as natural stone, brick, or concrete blocks. It encompasses the construction of walls, arches, vaults, chimneys, and façades, as well as decorative elements. The term covers both structural masonry and non-structural cladding. Historically, masonry dates to ancient civilizations, with stone and later brick used across the Mediterranean, Europe, and Asia. In classical and medieval architecture, ashlar, rubble, and brick masonry produced durable structures such as temples, fortifications, and churches. In modern practice, masonry often uses standardized units and mortars, with lime-based and cement-based mortars depending on the required properties and sustainability goals.

Masonry units include stone blocks, fired clay bricks, concrete blocks, and manufactured units. Mortar binds the units and provides joints; common formulations include lime-based mortars, cement-lime mortars, and cementitious mortars with aggregates. Techniques include laying methods (running bond, stack bond, header-bond), bonding patterns, and the use of reinforcing elements like steel bars in reinforced masonry. Tools include trowels, pointing trowels, levels, plumb lines, hods, chisels, and jointers.

Applications range from load-bearing walls to decorative façades and curtain walls. Maintenance involves repointing, cleaning, crack repair, and waterproofing. Training for masons combines apprenticeships, technical schooling, and on-the-job experience. Sustainability considerations include thermal mass, energy efficiency, damp control, and the use of recycled or locally sourced materials. Maçonnerie remains a foundational trade in construction, bridging craft heritage and modern building science.