murs

Murs is the French term for walls. In architecture and construction, a mur is a vertical barrier that encloses or divides spaces, supports loads, and provides privacy and protection. Walls can be exterior or interior and are constructed from a range of materials.

Traditional murs are masonry walls built from bricks, stones, or blocks laid in mortar. Modern walls may use reinforced concrete, concrete blocks, steel studs, and insulation. Some walls are load-bearing, carrying structural loads, while others are partition walls that merely separate spaces. Exterior walls often incorporate insulation, vapor barriers, and cladding, while interior walls may be lightweight and non-load-bearing. Cavity walls have an air gap to improve thermal performance.

Exterior walls define the building envelope and resist environmental forces. Shear walls provide lateral stability in earthquakes and strong winds. Wall thickness varies with climate, function, and building height. Finishes, such as plaster, plasterboard, brick veneers, or siding, affect appearance and durability.

Walls control light and sound, contain climate through insulation and sealing, and contribute to aesthetics and privacy. In historical architecture, walls also reflect construction techniques, available materials, and cultural priorities. In urban contexts, walls form streetscapes and can become surfaces for murals and decoration.

See also masonry, architecture, building envelope, partition wall, load-bearing wall.