Masonry Partition Systems, Why use masonry partition systems
Masonry partition systems speaks to why use masonry partition systems and what are masonry partition systems.
The fact is that a century ago, interior partitions were often made of common brick masonry plastered on both sides.
These had excellent STC abd fire resistance ratings but were labour intensive and heavy. Partition systems of hollow clay tile and hollow gypsum tile were developed to meet these objections and continued to be used extensively until as late as the 1950s.
Both have now become obsolete in North America and other countries of the world, replaced by plaster, gypsum board and concrete masonry, although they are still frequently encountered and used in the restoration of older buildings.
Concrete masonry partitions may be plastered or faced with gypsum board but are more often left exposed, either painted or unpainted. Several types of lightweight aggregate may be used to reduce the dead weight of the partition. Decorative concrete masonry units, which are known as architectural concrete unit masonry, may also be used.
Electrical wiring is relatively difficult to conceal in concrete block partitions. The electrician and the mason must coordinate their work closely or the wiring must be mounted on the surface of the wall after he mason has finished.
Glazed Structural Clay Tiles
Glazed structural clay tiles make very durable partitions, especially in areas with heavy wear, moisture problems or strict sanitation requirements. The ceramic glazes are nonfading and virtually indestructible.
Structural glazed facing tile has been extensively used in institutional settings here a durable, easily cleanable surface is desired. The material is commonly found in schools, correctional facilities, swimming pools and similar facilities. A wide variety of shapes have been developed to allow the construction of corners, caps, wall base and other elements using standard sizes. SGFT cannot be easily cut without damage to the glazed surface, so several dozen special shapes are available to allow most situations to be accommodated. SGFT features a fired glazed surface that may be produced in colors similar to those available from standard ceramic tile. SGFT has been replaced in some applications by glazed masonry units, a composite of concrete masonry and a tile-like surface coating.
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