A wall is simply a unique portion of the entire infrastructure of a building. All of the elements, such as color, size, shape, texture, and finishing touches, combine together to create limitless architectural expression. Shade and texture convey a certain depth and character to the structure of a wall and yet the overall appearance should exhibit uniformity.

Masonry is a durable means of construction building using different substances such as brick, marble, stone, concrete blocks, limestone, stucco, tile, granite, and glass blocks. Generally, masonry is both the building activity itself and the materials that are used in the process. Choosing the right type of material and deciding how they should be used in the construction of a house is confusing without the proper knowledge and skills. With the help of the right home builder, everything can easily fall into place.

Concrete Masonry Units (CMU)

CMU's are the most common type of masonry material utilized in building construction. They are often chosen because of the many benefits they have to offer as a wall material. They are cost-effective, fire-resistant, highly durable, environmentally safe, increase structural integrity, and have a better resale value. It is helpful to understand the different types and sizes of CMU's available since they are manufactured by several different companies.

Bricks

Historically, bricks are one of the most durable and long-lasting types of masonry units. They are made from blocks of ceramic building material originally made from clay or mud. There are several substances used in making bricks, yet clay is the substance that is most generally used today. The advantages of using clay include: durability, classic beauty, low-maintenance costs, low purchase cost, energy efficiency, greater resale value, impact resistance, fire-proof, and availability in appealing textures. Bricks are used in several different applications; however, they are most commonly used for building a house. To emulate classical bricks, the manufacturer burns the material to provide a rustic appearance.

Stones

Stones have been used in masonry construction for hundreds of years. They can be made from local stones, limestone, granite, and sandstone. The quality of the material depends on its resistance to breakage, water penetration, and the ability to be cut into regular shapes. Stones are durable, maintenance-free, natural-looking, inexpensive, offer a timeless appearance, and come in variety of sizes and colors. Stones make a wonderful, long-lasting wall.

Veneers

Veneers are a construction material made from small pieces of stone or brick that are used for low load-bearing solid masonry. This substance is widely known as a "curtain wall" because of its appearance. Some of the advantages of using veneers include: provide effective drainage; promote insulation; affordability; light-weight; easy installation; and lower labor costs when compared to the installation of other walls. There are two methods of wall construction using this substance: the anchored system and the adhered system.

There are several types of masonry material available. All of them have their own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to have some basic knowledge about these materials in order to choose the right type of masonry. Each type has its own beauty and unique appearance; however, many factors must be considered before making a final decision. It is a good idea when making a selection to consult with expert home builders who can offer their assistance in choosing the appropriate masonry material for the improvement of a home!