KEYWORDS:

SHORT DESCRIPTION:

• Burnt brick foundations are principally the same as masonry wall constructions, but begun under the ground, either directly on a bed of tamped sand or lean concrete, or on a concrete footing.

• A widened base is preferable to distribute the weight of the walls.

• Care must be taken to lay the bricks in perfectly level courses, and measures for waterproofing are important.

• A good mortar for masonry foundations is:

- 4 parts cement
- 1 part lime
- 12 parts clean sand
- sufficient water to make a workable mix.

• In earthquake areas, masonry foundations should be reinforced with wire mesh or thin rods. Professional advice should be sought. Further information: Bibl. 20.04, 20.05.

Burnt Bricks in Cement Mortar (Bibl. 20.05)