Masonry Inspection

In accordance with EN 1996-1-1, EN 771 (Parts 1-6) and NTC 2018 (Chapter 4.5 and Chapter 11.10), masonry units (clay bricks, concrete blocks, natural stone) must comply with European product standards and bear CE marking. Mortar must comply with EN 998-2 (pre-mixed mortars) or be proportioned per design specifications. NTC 2018 classifies units based on void percentage.

1. Verify CE marking of masonry units and Declaration of Performance (DoP) per EN 771

2. Check unit strength class (fbk) and compliance with design specifications and NTC 2018

3. Verify unit void percentage (solid, semi-solid, hollow) per NTC 2018 Chapter 4.5.2 classification

4. Check mortar strength class (M2.5, M5, M10, M15, M20) and compliance with EN 998-2

5. For site-mixed mortar, verify proportioning and components used

6. Verify availability of test certificates and acceptance test results

- Masonry units without CE marking or with non-conforming performance

- Mortar with strength class lower than design specification

- Units with void percentage not conforming to the NTC 2018 required category

- Incorrect proportioning of site-mixed mortar

- Acceptance testing of materials not performed

In accordance with EN 1996-2 and NTC 2018 (Chapter 4.5), masonry walls must be built with regular joints, controlled plumbness and correct bonding between perpendicular walls. EN 1996-1-1 defines execution requirements and tolerances. For construction in seismic zones, NTC 2018 Chapter 7.8 imposes additional requirements (minimum thicknesses, ring beams, joint reinforcement).

1. Check wall plumbness with plumb bob or laser level (typical tolerance: +/-20 mm over 3 m height)

2. Check thickness and regularity of horizontal mortar joints (8-15 mm for standard mortar) and vertical joints

3. Verify vertical joint offset between consecutive courses (at least 0.4 times unit height or 40 mm)

4. Check bonding between perpendicular walls and presence of metal ties where specified

5. In seismic zones, verify presence of reinforced concrete ring beams at floor levels, reinforced lintels and joint reinforcement where specified

6. Verify pre-wetting of units (where necessary) to prevent water absorption from mortar

- Vertical joints not filled with mortar (especially in standard masonry)

- Walls out of plumb beyond permitted tolerances

- Insufficient bonding between perpendicular walls

- Missing ring beams and lintels in seismic zones

- Mortar not adequately adhering due to failure to wet units

In accordance with EN 1996-2 and NTC 2018, movement joints must be provided to absorb thermal, hygroscopic and settlement movements in masonry. Maximum spacing between joints depends on unit type and exposure conditions. Damp proof courses (DPC - waterproof layers) must be positioned per EN 1996-2 Section 5.

1. Verify position and spacing of movement joints against design and EN 1996-2 recommendations

2. Check that joints are continuous over the full height and thickness of the wall, without mortar bridges

3. Verify joint filler material (flexible sealant, compressible panels) and compatibility

4. Check position and continuity of damp proof courses (bituminous membrane, polyethylene membrane) at the base of walls and below window sills

5. Verify presence of weep holes above waterproof barriers in fair-faced masonry

6. Check critical points: service penetrations, section changes, junctions between different materials

- Movement joints omitted or spaced at excessive distances

- Joints blocked by mortar or debris preventing their function

- Damp proof course interrupted or damaged during installation

- Missing weep holes in fair-faced masonry

- Waterproof barrier not continuous at openings