275. Superintendence of Brickwork

The various portions of the work that require especial superintendence have been mentioned in describing the manner of doing the work. In general the points in which brickwork is most commonly slighted are in wetting and laying the brick. The importance of wetting the brick is fully set forth in Section 238. In the laying of the brick it is often difficult to get the mason to use sufficient mortar to thoroughly fill all the joints and to shove the bricks. The quality of the mortar should also be frequently examined, as brick masons in some localities like to mix a little loam with the sand to make the mortar "work well."

The bonding of the walls should be watched to see that the bond courses are used as often as specified. The bonding of piers should be particularly looked after. The laying of the face brick and ornamental features requires more skill, but is not so apt to be slighted as the back of the wall.

The superintendent should also see that the dimensions of the building are properly followed, openings left in their proper places, and the courses kept level and the wall plumb.

In very high stories, particularly in halls and churches, the walls should be stayed with temporary braces until the permanent timbers can be built in. It is also important to see that all bearing plates are well bedded, and that all floor anchors, etc., are securely built in; also to see that all recesses for pipes, etc., marked on the plans are left in the proper places, and that all smoke and vent flues are smoothly plastered.