Brick

[|Roanoke VA decorative concrete] Bricks can be made from clay, ceramic, concrete, or shaped from quarried stone. They are used in masonry construction and they can serve a structural function, a decorative function, or a combination of both. I think there are lots of types of bricks, and they differ in their composition material and hardness. They may be solid perforated or hollow. They also differ in their shapes, bacause they are ussualy rectangular but also can be made in special shapes for particular use. Bricklaying techniques means the differents techniques that the bricklayer may use to develop its projects. // Running or Stretcher Bond: // A pattern made using only stretchers, with the joins in each row (or course) centred on the bricks in the row below. Not structurally strong or aesthetically interesting, but very very common. Often used for curtain walls one brick thick. // Stack Bond: // A pattern made up of rows of stretchers with each stretcher centred on the stretcher below it. All joins run vertically down the entire wall. Not a strong bond at all, it is used only for decorative purposes.
 * Pre **** -reading **
 * ** What are they made of? **
 * ** What are they used for? **
 * ** How many types of brick are there? **
 * ** What is the meaning of // brick laying techniques //? **
 * ** Describe 2 brick laying techniques **
 * What are their advantages and disadvantages?

Advantages

 * Bricks can increase the thermal mass of a building, giving increased comfort in the heat of summer and the cold of winter
 * Brick typically will not require painting and so can provide a structure with reduced life-cycle costs, although sealing appropriately will reduce potential spalling due to frost damage. Non-decorative concrete block generally is painted or stuccoed if exposed.
 * The appearance, especially when well crafted, can impart an impression of solidity and permanence.
 * Bricks are very heat resistant and thus provides good fire protection.
 * The biggest advantage of brick siding is that its low maintenance.

Disadvantages

 * Brick may be more difficult to repair when it becomes damaged. This is especially true for brick siding that is part of a wall system where the individual brick may not be easy to replace without having to remove the entire wall section.
 * Because brick is made from organic material it is important to keeps moisture from seeping into the brick siding. Moisture build-up over time causes brick to crumble and become brittle. Organic brick subject to prolonged exposure to water will become discolored and fade over time.




 * Post-Reading **

**//Be/come up against a brick wall//**

That means to not be able to continue an activity or do something you want to do. For example: I've tried everywhere I can think of for funding but I've come up against a brick wall" or " My brother wants to leave home but he can't find a job. He's up against a brick wall".