muratura

Muratura, in architectural terms, refers to the construction of structures using units such as bricks, stones, or concrete blocks laid in mortar. The technique encompasses the assembly of walls, arches, vaults, and other elements primarily built of masonry. The noun is used in Italian and many European languages, and in English sources as masonry or wall construction.

Materials and units: Common masonry units include fired bricks (laterizio), natural stones, and concrete blocks. Mortars historically relied on lime-based mixes; later renders used Portland cement-based mortars. Lime mortars are valued for breathability and compatibility with historic masonry, while cementitious mortars offer higher strength for modern constructions. Bonds and joints distribute loads and weather resilience.

Types of masonry: Muratura portante uses walls to carry structural loads, whereas muratura di tamponamento serves as infill within a frame. Muratura armata adds reinforcement, typically through steel or fibers, to improve resistance to shear and cracking. There are variations by block type (brick masonry, stone masonry, block masonry) and by finishing pattern or bond.

Properties and performance: Masonry walls are dimensionally stable and have high thermal inertia but can be susceptible to moisture ingress and cracking if poorly designed or maintained. Breathability, thermal performance, and acoustic behavior depend on mass, porosity, and mortar choice. Regular maintenance, damp-proofing, and proper drainage are important for longevity.

Applications and preservation: In historic buildings, muratura preservation relies on compatible materials and reversible interventions. In modern construction, masonry is often used for non-structural facades or combined with steel, concrete, or timber systems to form hybrid structures.