Table of Contents

1. Scope ...................................................................................................................................2
2. List Of Standards .................................................................................................................2
3. Terminology ........................................................................................................................4
4. Materials .............................................................................................................................5
5. Submittals .........................................................................................................................14
6. Workmanship ....................................................................................................................14
7. Quality Management ........................................................................................................22
8. Safety Considerations And Requirements .........................................................................23
9. Environmental Considerations And Requirements ...........................................................23
10. Completion And Delivery ...............................................................................................24
11. Method Of Measurement & Rate ..................................................................................24
12. Annexures ......................................................................................................................28

Page 1 of 30
 Specification for Masonry Work
1. Scope
The work covered under this specification consists of Masonry works including
following items for the projects of Godrej Properties Ltd.
 Concrete Block Masonry
o Solid Concrete Blocks
o Hollow Concrete Blocks
o Autoclave Aerated Concrete Blocks
o Hollow Light Weight Concrete Blocks
o Solid Light Weight Concrete Blocks
 Brick Masonry
o Clay Bricks
o Clay Fly Ash Bricks
o Fly Ash Lime Bricks
o Sand Lime(Calcium Silicate) Bricks
o Auto-Clave Bricks
 Stone Masonry
o Random Rubble Masonry
o Rubble Masonry-Coursed

2. List of Standards
The work shall be carried out as per latest versions of Indian Standards and Code of
practices. List given hereunder is not to be considered as complete and is for reference/
guidance only. Any discrepancies / conflicts noticed shall be directed to the Engineer for
his direction / approval.
However as a general rule the more stringent specification shall take precedence.
IS 269 Specification for ordinary and low heat Portland cement grade
33
IS 383 Specification for coarse and fine aggregates from natural sources
for concrete.
IS 456 Code of Practice for plain and reinforced concrete.
IS 1077 Common burnt clay building bricks.
IS 1121 Methods of determination of properties and strengths of natural
(Part I) building stones (Part-I compressive strength).
IS 1122 Methods for determination of specific gravity of natural building
stone
IS 1123 Methods of identification of natural building stones
IS 1124 Method of test for determination of water absorption, apparent
specific gravity and porosity of natural building stones

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 IS 1125 Methods of test of determination of weathering of natural
building stone
IS 1126 Methods of test for determination of durability of natural
building stone
IS: 1127 Recommendations for dimensions and workmanship
Of natural building stones for masonry work.
IS 1128 Specification for Lime stone (Slab & Tiles).
IS 1129 Recommendations for dressing of natural building stones
IS 1197 Code of practice for construction of rubble stone masonry
(Pt. I)
IS 1200 Method of measurements of brick works
(Part 3)
IS 1200 Method of measurements of natural building stones
(Part 4)
IS 1597 Specification for Construction of Rubble Stone Masonry
(Part I)
IS: 1609 Code of Practice for laying Damp-proof treatment
Using bitumen felts.
IS 1805 Glossary of terms relating to stones, quarrying and dressing
IS 2185 Specification for concrete masonry units
Part - 1 Hollow and solid concrete blocks
Part -2 Hollow and solid light weight concrete blocks
Part - 3 Autoclave Cellular (Aerated) concrete blocks
IS: 2212 Code of Practice for Brickwork.
IS 2222 Specification for burnt clay perforated building bricks.
IS: 2250 Code of Practice for preparation and use of Masonry Mortar.
IS 2572 Code of Practice for construction of hollow concrete block
masonry.
IS 2849 Specification for non-load bearing gypsum partition blocks, (Solid
and hollow types)
IS 3495 Method of test for burnt clay building bricks.
IS 3812 Specification for fly ash for use as pozzolana and admixture.
IS 4139 Specification of calcium silicate bricks
IS 4885 Specification for sewer brick
IS 5454 Methods of sampling of clay building bricks.
IS-6041 Construction of autoclaved cellular concrete block masonry

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 IS-6072 Specifications for autoclaved reinforced cellular concrete wall
slabs
IS-6073 Autoclaved Reinforced Cellular Concerted floor and roof slabs
IS-6441 Methods of test for autoclaved Cellular Concrete
products(Determination of unit weight or bulk Density &
Moisture ) Part 1,2,3,4,5,6 & 8
IS 8112 Specification for ordinary pozzolana cement grade 43.
IS 9103 Specifications for admixtures in concrete
IS 12269 Specification for 53 grade ordinary Portland cement
IS 12894 Pulverized fuel ash lime bricks specification
IS 13757 Specification of burnt clay fly ash bricks.

3. Terminology
The following terms and abbreviations shall have the specific meanings as described
hereunder. For terms that are not described herein, the definitions as stated in the
applicable Indian Standard Specifications shall apply.
3.1. Bond: The arrangement of the bricks in successive courses to tie the brick work
together both longitudinally and transversely. The arrangement is usually
designed to ensure that no vertical joint of one course is exactly over the one in
the next course above or below it, and there is greatest possible amount of lap.
3.2. Bed Joint: Horizontal joint in brick work or masonry.
3.3. Block: A concrete masonry unit, either hollow (open or closed cavity), or solid
(other than units used for bonding, such as a half block), any one of the external
dimension of which is greater than the corresponding dimension of a brick.
3.4. Bushing: It is the finished projection provided on the rock surface.
3.5. Cross Joint: joint other than a bed joint normal to the wall face
3.6. Closer: Any portion of a brick used in constructing a wall, to close up the bond
next to the end brick of a course
3.7. Coping or Weathering : The cover applied over or the geometrical form given to
a part of structure to enable it to shed rain water
3.8. Corbel: A cantilever projecting from the face of a wall to form a bearing
3.9. Cornice: Horizontal or ornamental feature projecting from the face of a wall
3.10. Course: A layer of bricks/blocks/stones including bed mortar
3.11. Efflorescence: A powdery incrustment of salts left by evaporation. This may be
visible on the surface or may be below surface. In the latter case, this is termed
as crypto Efflorescence.
3.12. Header: A brick laid with its length across the wall. Selected long stones used to
hold a wall together transversally.
3.13. Hearting: The infilling which forms the core of a rubble wall.
3.14. Jamb: The part of the wall at the side of an opening.

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 3.15. Quoin: A quoin is the external angle of a wall or building. The term is also applied
to a stone specially selected and neatly dressed for forming such an angle.
3.16. Spandrel: The space between the haunches and the road decking of an arch.
3.17. Stretcher: A brick/stone/block laid with its length in the direction of the wall.
3.18. String course: horizontal course projecting from a wall usually introduced at
every floor level or windows or below parapet for imparting architectural
appearance to the structure and also keeping off the rain water.
3.19. Toothing: Bricks left projecting in alternate courses to bond with future work.

4. Materials
4.1 Cement
4.2.1 The type of cement to be used in concrete/mortar shall be as per the
approved Concrete Mix Design. Generally, the following types of cement
may be used:
 Ordinary Portland cement of grade 53 or 43
 Portland Pozzolana Cement
 Portland Blast Furnace Slag Cement
4.2.2 Cement shall be received in bags of 50 kg or loose in bulkers and each
batch shall be accompanied with a test certificate of the factory. In case
cement has been stored for over 3 months or for any reasons the stored
cement shows signs of deterioration or contamination, it shall be
tested as per the direction of the Engineer, and will be used in the works
only if found suitable
4.2 Coarse Aggregate
4.2.1 Coarse aggregate shall be obtained from natural sources such as stone,
gravel, etc. crushed or uncrushed or a combination thereof from
approved quarries. Aggregate shall be hard, strong, dense, durable, and
clean and free from veins and adherent coatings. It shall be free from
soft, feeble, thin, elongated or laminated pieces and shall be roughly
cubical in shape. It shall consist of coarse material, most of which is
retained on 4.75 mm IS sieve and shall contain only as much fine material
as is permitted in IS 383 for various sizes and grading.
4.2.2 Coarse aggregate shall conform to all requirements laid down in IS: 383
4.2.3 The maximum size of coarse aggregate should not be greater than one
fourth of the minimum thickness of the member and it should be
restricted to 5 mm less than the minimum clear distance between the
main bars or 5 mm less than the minimum cover to the reinforcement.
4.2.4 Source of aggregate shall be from an approved location. Each source of
aggregate shall be approved by Engineer on the basis of tests conducted
on samples of aggregates from the source at an approved testing
laboratory. In case available aggregates do not meet certain
requirements of IS 383 or any other specification, required processing

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 shall be carried out by the contractor to make the aggregates conform to
IS: 383.
4.2.5 Coarse aggregate shall have a specific gravity of 2.6 (Saturated surface
dry basis). Aggregate below this specific gravity shall not be used without
the special permission of the Engineer.
4.2.6 Once a specific source of supply of coarse aggregate is approved, the
source shall not be changed without the prior approval of the Engineer.
4.3 Fine Aggregate
4.3.1 Natural sand deposited by stream or glacial agencies as a result of
disintegration of rock shall be used as fine aggregate. Fine aggregate shall
pass through 4.75 mm sieve in total. Crushed sand may be used or added
to natural sand in approved proportions to achieve the required grading.
The fine aggregate shall conform to following standards.
4.3.2 IS 383 Specification for coarse and fine aggregates from natural sources
for concrete.
4.3.3 IS 2116 Specification for sand for masonry mortars and grouts.
4.3.4 Sea sand shall not be used unless specifically approved by the Engineer in
writing. If approved, the required treatment to the sea sand to make it
conform to the requirements of relevant Indian Standard shall be done at
the contractor’s cost.
4.3.5 Sand shall be hard, durable, chemically inert, clean and free from
adherent coatings and organic matter and shall conform to the
requirements laid down in IS: 383.
4.3.6 If the fine aggregate containing more than allowable percentage of silt
and / or deleterious materials, it shall be thoroughly washed at site with
clean fresh washed so as to bring the silt content/ deleterious material’s
content within allowable limits.
4.3.7 Grading of fine aggregate shall conform to IS and shall fall within limits of
one of the grading zones given in IS 383. Fine aggregate falling in grading
zone IV shall not be used in concrete.
4.4 Water
4.4.1 Water used for mixing and curing shall be clean, reasonably clear and
free from objectionable quantities of silt, oils, alkalis, acids, salts, sugar
so as not to weaken mortar, or concrete or cause efflorescence or
attack the steel in RCC while curing. It shall be free of elements, which
significantly affects the hydration reaction or otherwise interferes with
hardening of concrete during curing or those elements which produce
objectionable stains or deposits.
4.4.2 Potable water is generally satisfactory but it shall be tested prior to use in
the works. Water used for mixing and curing shall satisfy the
requirements of IS: 456.
4.4.3 Water shall be tested in accordance with IS 3025. The PH value of water
shall not be less than 6 nor more than 9.

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 4.4.4 The source of water shall be tested and got approved in writing from the
Engineer prior to use in the works.
4.4.5 Use of sea water shall not be permitted for any purpose related to
making concrete.
4.5 Concrete Blocks
4.5.1 Concrete blocks may be hollow (open ended for ease of laying conduits)
or solid and shall be referred to by its nominal dimension. The term
nominal dimension includes the thickness of the mortar joint. Actual
dimensions of the block shall be 10 mm short of the nominal dimensions.
4.5.2 Blocks shall be made in sizes and shapes to fit different construction
needs. It includes stretcher, corner, double corner or pier, jambs, header,
bull-nose, partition block and concreted floor units. Nominal dimensions
of concrete blocks shall be, Length – 400, 500, or 600 mm
Height – 200 or 100 mm
Width - 100, 150, 200, 250, or 300 mm
4.5.3 Maximum permissible variation shall be ± 5 mm in length and ±3 mm in
width and height of the block. Actual dimensions of block shall be 10 mm
short of nominal dimensions.
4.5.4 The average crushing strength shall be determined as per I.S [Link]
load bearing wall density of hollow block shall be not less than 1500 kg
/mm3 and minimum average compressive strength of units shall be 3.5 to
7 N/mm2. For block density less than 1500 kg /mm3 but not less than
1000 kg /mm3 average compressive strength of units shall be 2.0 to5
N/mm2 .
4.5.5 For non-load bearing wall, hollow block density shall be not less than
1000kg / mm3 and minimum average compressive strength of units shall
be1.5 N/mm2.
4.5.6 Face shells and web dimensions shall not be less than the values given in
IS 2185 Part I – Table 1 “Minimum face shell and web thickness”.
4.5.7 Concrete shall be mixed in mechanical mixers. Blocks shall be moulded,
laid and compacted With automatic machines. No hand/manual
compaction shall be permitted unless approved by the Engineer in writing
for special blocks. Care shall be taken to see that the mix is placed in
layers and each layer thoroughly tamped until the whole mould is filled
up. Blocks shall be protected until they are sufficiently hardened to
permit handling without damage.
4.5.8 Blocks shall be cured in the curing yard by keeping them continuously
moist for at least 14 days.
4.5.9 Steam-cured blocks shall be preferred. Cured blocks shall be allowed to
dry for a period of 4 weeks before being used. The blocks shall be
allowed to complete their initial shrinkage before they are laid in the wall
4.5.10 All blocks shall be sound and free of cracks or other defects. Where faces
are exposed, they shall be free of chips, or other imperfections, and the

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 overall dimensions of the blocks shall be in accordance with the tolerance
as specified.
4.5.11 Blocks shall be considered to be conforming to IS if requirements of the
conditions mentioned in clauses 11 & 12 of IS 2185 (Part I) are satisfied.
4.5.12 Autoclave Aerated Concrete Blocks: Autoclaved aerated concrete, or
AAC, is also known as Autoclaved Cellular concrete(ACC), is a light weight,
precast building material, made with fine aggregates, cement, and an
expansion agent that causes the fresh mixture to rise like bread dough. In
fact, this type of concrete contains 80% air. In the factory where it is made,
the material is molded and cut into precisely dimensioned units.
 Blocks are larger and lighter than traditional concrete masonry.
Compressive
Thickness Height Length Density
strength
100 mm 200 mm 600 mm 550-700 kg/m3 30 - 50 kg/cm2
150 mm 200 mm 600 mm 550-700 kg/m3 30 - 50 kg/cm2
200 mm 200 mm 600 mm 550-700 kg/m3 30 - 50 kg/cm2

4.6 Bricks
4.6.1. Common Burnt Clay Bricks
Common Burnt Clay Bricks shall conform to IS:1077 and shall be hand
moulded or machine moulded. They shall be free from nodules of free
lime, visible cracks, flaws warpage and organic matter, have a frog 100
mm in length 40 mm in width and 10 mm to 20 mm deep on one of its
flat sides. Bricks made by extrusion process and brick tiles may not be
provided with frogs. Each brick shall be marked (in the frog where
provided) with the manufacturer’s identification mark or initials.
4.6.2. Fly ash bricks
a. Fly ash bricks (cement bonded) shall be locally made. Bricks shall
have smooth rectangular faces with sharp and square corners.
Bricks shall be hand or machine moulded and shall be made from
the admixture of suitable good quality of fly ash, sand and cement
as per the composition mentioned below :
FLY ASH: 50-60%
SAND: 32-40%
CEMENT : 8-12%
b. The fly ash bricks will be as per latest relevant IS code. The bricks
will be of dimension as per standard clay brick, suitable for
making 230mm thick full brick wall, 115mm thick half brick wall
and 75mm thick minor partition walls, as applicable, as per
drawing/specification/BOQ. A maximum tolerance of (+/-) 2mm
shall be allowed as the manufacturing tolerance. The bricks shall

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 have frog of 100 mm in length 40 mm in width and 10 to 20 mm
deep of one of its flat sides.
c. The bricks when tested in accordance with the procedure laid
down in IS 3495 (part 2) : 1992 after immersion in cold water for
24 hrs., water absorption shall be within 13-15% by weight.
Similarly, the porosity of the fly ash bricks shall be within 12-20%.
The bricks shall have a minimum crushing strength of 50 Kg/CmSq.
4.6.3. Mechanized Autoclave Fly Ash Lime Brick:
These bricks shall be machine moulded and prepared in plant by
appropriate proportion of fly ash and lime. The autoclave fly ash bricks
shall conform to IS 12894. Visually, the bricks shall be sound, compact
and uniform shape, free from visible cracks, warpage and organic
matters. The brick shall be solid with or without frog, and of 100/80 mm
in length, 40 mm width and 10 to 20 mm deep one of its flat side as per IS
12894. The brick shall have smooth rectangular faces with sharp corners
and shall be uniform in shape and colour. Fly ash shall conform to IS 3812
and lime shall conform to class ‘C’ hydrated lime of IS 712.
4.6.4. Dimensions: The brick may be modular or non-modular. Sizes for both
types of bricks/tiles shall be as per following Table. While use of modular
bricks/tiles is recommended, non-modular (FPS) bricks/tiles can also be
used where so specified. Non-modular bricks/tiles of sizes other than the
sizes mentioned in Table below may also be used where specified.
Type of Bricks/ Tiles Nominal Size mm Actual Size mm
Modular Bricks 200 × 100 × 100 190 × 90 × 90 mm
mm
Modular tile bricks 200 × 100 × 40 mm 190 × 90 × 40 mm
Non-modular tile bricks 229 × 114 × 44 mm 225 × 111 × 44 mm
Non-modular bricks 229 x 114 × 70 mm 225 x 111 × 70 mm
4.6.5. Classification: Bricks/Brick tiles shall be classified on the basis of their
minimum compressive strength as given below :
Class Average compressive strength
Designation Not less than Less than
N/mm2 (kgf/cm2) N/mm2 (Kgf/cm2)
12.5 (125) 12.5 (125) 15 150
10 (100) 10 (100) 12.5 125
7.5 (75) 7.5 (75) 10 100
5 (50) 5 (50) 7.5 75
3.5 (35) 3.5 (35) 5 50
The bricks shall have smooth rectangular faces with sharp corner and
shall be uniform in colour and emit clear ringing sound when struck.

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 4.7 Stone
4.7.1. The stone shall be of the type specified such as granite, trap, limestone,
sand stone, quartzite, etc. and shall be obtained from the quarries,
approved by the Engineer-in-Charge. Stone shall be hard, sound, durable
and free from weathering decay and defects like cavities, cracks, flaws,
sand holes, injurious veins, patches of loose or soft materials and other
similar defects that may adversely affect its strength and appearance. As
far as possible stones shall be of uniform colour, quality or texture.
Generally stone shall not contain crypst crystalline silica or chart, mica
and other deleterious materials like iron-oxide organic impurities etc.
4.7.2. Stones with round surface shall not be used.
4.7.3. The compressive strength of common types of stones shall be as per
following Table and the percentage of water absorption shall generally
not exceed 5% for stones other than specified in following Table For
laterite this percentage is 12%.
Type of stone Maximum Water Minimum
Absorption Compressive
Percentage by weight Strength kg./[Link]

Granite 0.5 1000

Basalt 0.5 400
Lime stone(Slab & Tiles) 0.15 200
Sand stone (Slab & Tiles) 2.5 300
Marble 0.40 500
Quartzite 0.40 800
Laterite (Block) 12 35
.
Note 1: Test for compressive strength shall be carried out as laid down in
IS 1121 (Part I).
Note 2: Test for water absorption shall be carried out as laid down in IS
1124.
4.7.4. Size of Stones
a) Normally stones used should be small enough to be lifted and placed
by hand. Unless otherwise indicated, the length of stones for stone
masonry shall not exceed three times the height and the breadth on
base shall not be greater than three-fourth of the thickness of wall, or
not less than 150 mm. The height of stone for rubble masonry may be
upto 300 mm.
b) The selection and grading of stones for rubble masonry is largely done
at site and the smaller stones are used in the hearting of wall.
c) Random Rubble Masonry shall be uncoursed or brought to courses as
specified. Uncoursed random rubble masonry shall be constructed
with stones of sizes as referred above. and shapes picked up random

Page 10 of 30
 from the stones brought from the approved quarry. Stones having
sharp corners or round surfaces shall, however, not be used.
d) Random rubble masonry brought to the course is similar to
uncoursed random rubble masonry except that the courses are
roughly levelled at intervals varying from 300 mm to 900 mm in
height according to the size of stones used.
4.7.5. Dressing: Each stone shall be hammer dressed on the face, the sides and
the beds. Hammer dressing shall enable the stones to be laid close to
neighbouring stones such that the bushing in the face shall not project
more than 40 mm on the exposed face.
4.8 Mortar
4.8.1 Mortar shall be prepared by mixing graded fine aggregate with cement
and approved non shrinking compound (as specified by engineer in
charge and as per instructions laid down by manufacturer) in the
proportion specified for respective items of work as detailed in the BOQ.
4.8.2 Mixing of mortar shall be done by mechanical mixers only. Hand mixing
may be permitted in specific cases with the written permission of the
Engineer.
4.8.3 Mortars shall be specified by proportion. Volumetric mixing shall be
based on dry volumes of each ingredient. For convenience, measurement
boxes shall correspond to volume of one cement bag i.e. 0.035 cum.
Boxes shall be of size 33.33 x 30 x 35 cm (L x B x D). These shall be marked
as mortar mixing boxes. Hand mixing or mechanical mixing shall be done
with the use of these boxes.
4.8.4 Cement mortar shall be prepared by mixing cement and sand in specified
proportions. Proportioning shall be carried out as detailed above. Sand
shall be suitably added to allow for bulking, if required. Bulking shall be
determined as laid down in IS 2386 Part III. Cement and sand added to
mixer shall be thoroughly mixed and water shall be added to it gradually.
After addition of water the mixer shall run for a minimum of 2 minutes.
The mortar so mixed, shall be consumed within 4 hours.
4.9 Damp Proof Course
04.9.1. It shall consist of a layer of concrete 40 mm thick in the ratio of [Link]
(1cement: 2 sand: 4 stone aggregate of 10 mm nominal size). The
concrete layer shall be provided with a water proofing treatment which
may either be a surface treatment or integral waterproofing compounds.
For surface treatment of concrete, hot bitumen at the rate of 1.7 kg/100
sqm may be used.
04.9.2. Alternatively Slate and Cuddappah stone slabs can also be used which
shall be of minimum 40 Mm thickness with exposed edges finely dressed,
true and square. These slabs be embedded in Cement mortar 1:3 with
non-shrinking compound additive as per manufacturers
recommendations.

Page 11 of 30
4.10 Admixture
4.10.1. Additives or admixtures may be added to the cement or concrete mix
conforming to the Indian Standard specifications IS 9103.
4.10.2. Admixtures shall be permitted to be used to modify the properties of
concrete for single, or a combination of purposes. This shall be used for
specific purpose and the type and dosage of admixture shall be as per the
approved mix design of concrete.
4.10.3. Admixtures shall be free from chlorides and sulphates or any other
material which may cause problems to the concrete in the due course of
time.
4.10.4. Admixtures are manufactured and sold by various companies under
brand names. The contractor proposing to use any one of them shall
submit to the Engineer the technical literature with its chemical
composition, purpose of use and method recommended by the
manufacturer.
4.10.5. The contractor’s proposal shall accompany the following with his request
to use admixture.
a) The trade name of the admixture, its source and the
manufacturer’s recommended method of use.
b) Typical dosage rates and the possible detrimental effects of under
and over-dosage. Whether the admixture contains chloride in any
free form or any other chemical present as an active ingredient
which is a likely cause of corrosion of reinforcement or
deterioration of concrete.
c) The average expected air content of freshly mixed concrete
containing an admixture which causes air to be entrained when
used at the manufacturer’s recommended rate of dosage.
4.11 Joint Fillers
04.11.1. Bituminous impregnated, pre-moulded joint filler board shall be
of approved quality, from approved manufacturer and shall conform to IS
1838 part I
4.12 Metal Reinforcement
04.12.1. Expanded metal used shall comply with IS 412
4.13 Bonding Agent
4.13.1. Bonding agent of approved make shall be used for application on RCC
surfaces having interface with block work.
4.14 Delivery & Storage of Material
4.14.1. Bricks: The Contractor to ensure the following:
a. Bricks shall be stacked in regular tiers as and when they are
unloaded to minimize breakage and defacement. These shall not
be dumped at site.

Page 12 of 30
 b. Bricks stacks shall be placed close to the site of work so that least
effort is required to unload and transport the bricks again by
loading on pallets or in barrows. Building bricks shall be loaded or
unloaded a pair at a time unless palletized. Unloading of building
bricks or handling in any other way likely to damage the corners
or edges or other parts of bricks shall not be permitted.
c. Bricks shall be stacked on dry firm ground. For proper inspection
of quality and ease in counting the stacks shall be 50 bricks long,
10 bricks high and not more than 4 bricks in width, the bricks
being placed on edge, two at a time along the width of the stack.
Clear distance between adjacent stacks shall not be less than 0.8
m. Bricks of each truck load shall be put in one stack.
d. Bricks of different types, such as clay bricks, clay fly ash bricks, fly
ash lime bricks, sand lime (calcium silicate) bricks, auto-clave
bricks etc. shall be stacked separately. Bricks of different
classification and size consideration (such as, conventional and
modular) shall be stacked separately.
4.14.2. Concrete Blocks: The Contractor to ensure the following:
a. Blocks shall be unloaded one at a time and stacked in regular tiers
to minimize breakage and defacement. These shall not be
dumped at site. The height of the stack shall not be more than 1.2
m. The length of the stack shall not be more than 3.0 m, as far as
possible and the width shall be of two or three blocks.
b. Load, unload deliver, store all concrete blocks with due care, at
site so as to be free from damage, dirt, intrusion of foreign
materials etc. Normally blocks cured for 28 days only should be
received at site. In case blocks cured for less than 28 days are
received, these shall be stacked separately. All blocks should be
water cured for 10 to 14 days and air cured for another 15 days;
thus no blocks with less than 28 days curing shall be used in
building construction.
c. Blocks shall be placed close to the site of work so that least effort
is required for their transportation. The date of manufacture of
the blocks shall be suitably marked on the stacks of blocks
manufactured at factory or site.
d. All blocks shall be handled carefully from manufacture to laying
and properly stacked in position convenient for the work. They
shall be kept free from standing water and protected from rain,
mud and contamination by other materials.
e. Protect blocks from any extreme weather conditions.

Page 13 of 30
5. Submittals
The contractor shall maintain a comprehensive record of the block works as per
the approved ITP. All records shall be in hard copy, signed by the Quality
manager, unless electronic records are permitted by the Engineer.
5.1 Concrete Block Masonry /Brick Masonry
5.1.1. The following documents shall be submitted to the Engineer for approval
and record:
a. Manufacturer’s Test Certificates for concrete blocks /bricks
brought to site.
b. Records of tests performed on blocks/bricks.
c. Detailed methodology for carrying out repairs for any defect
d. Record for correction / repairs carried out
5.1.2. Prepare sample panels of approximately 1 m2 of faced blockwork
/brickwork including pointing, and obtain approval before proceeding
5.1.3. If required by the Engineer, contractor shall maintain and submit
photographs indicating compliance to various requirements of this
specification and ITP.
5.2 Stone Masonry: A sample wall, 10 m2. In area shall be built and approved by the
Engineer and all works shall match with this sample.

6. Workmanship
6.1 Concrete Block Masonry
6.1.1. Concrete blocks may not be wetted like brick masonry prior to use. In
total dry climate top & sides of block shall be moistened to avoid
absorption of water from mortar.
6.1.2. The window sill levels shall be properly ascertained by the Contractor
prior to commencement of blockwork. All surfaces on which blockwork is
to be built shall be cleaned of any foreign matter influencing the bond
between the surface and blockwork. The use of chipped or defaced
blocks will not be permitted in any facework. Concrete blockwork shall be
laid in English bond.(Fig. 1 as annexed). Height of block work constructed
in one day shall be restricted to 1.2 meter.
6.1.3. Cut blocks shall not be used. Special solid precast blocks at site shall be
cast well in advance to be used as spacers and to adjust breaking of
vertical joints. Blocks can be cut horizontally or vertically for use as
spacers and to adjust breaking of vertical joints at approval of Owner or
Owner’s representative.
6.1.4. All cross (vertical) joints shall be filled by well buttering the ends of the
block with mortar and then sliding it against its neighbour.
6.1.5. Cracks in block masonry are due to shrinkage or expansion of blocks
or due to load settlement, thermal expansion or changes in moisture
content in the structural members enclosing the block walls. The

Page 14 of 30
 following measures are recommended to prevent formation of cracks. All
blocks shall be cleaned before placing and shall be moistened with water
for at least 3 hours before using by a method which will ensure that each
block is thoroughly and uniformly wetted. Expansion joints shall be
provided in walls exceeding 30 m in length. Reinforcement should be
provided in the bed joints in block work, one course above and one
course below windows and above doors in order to distribute the
shrinkage/ temperature stresses occurring at the corners of openings,
more uniformly throughout the walls.
6.1.6. In framed structures, erection of partition and panel walls should be
delayed to the extent feasible to take care of deformations due to
structural loads. Partition walls should be suitably reinforced in lower
courses to strengthen against excessive deflections of floor slabs and
should be separated from the ceiling by a layer of resilient material. Joint
shall be provided in the plaster or any other finish.
6.1.7. Where required, damp proof course layer shall be laid as specified
Exposed faces and corners of masonry damaged during construction shall
be removed and repaired in a manner acceptable to Engineer.
6.1.8. Blockwork of single block thickness shall be laid in stretcher bond, and
blockwork of double block thickness in alternate courses of headers and
stretchers. No broken blocks will be accepted except where necessary for
bonding. Alternate courses of load bearing block walling at intersection
shall be carried through the full thickness the adjoining wall. Course
heights shall not vary throughout the building and each course shall be
level and set out so that bed joints occur in line with sills, lintels and
other features. Hollow blocks shall be filled with specified grade concrete
indicated on the Drawings
6.1.9. At junctions of walls with concrete structure cast in, cut and pin or shot
fire ties to concrete at 320 mm centres vertically to project 250 mm into
blockwalls or as per indicated in the drawings. For blockwork built against
the face of concrete structure, cast in or out and pin ties to concrete at
900 mm centres horizontally, 320 mm centres vertically and staggered, to
project 75 mm into block walls or as per indicated in drawings. Pin up and
wedge blockwork to structural soffits, and fill solid with mortar.
6.1.10. Scaffolding:
Scaffolding independent of block work i.e. double legged scaffolding shall
be provided. It should be tied to block work or structure at suitable
intervals in both directions. Two rows of planks shall be provided all
around. Planks shall be at least 50 mm thick and well-tied to scaffolding.
Railing on the outside face shall be provided. While erecting scaffolding,
the following points must be noted and closely followed:
a. Minimum number of openings shall be provided in the horizontal
direction.

Page 15 of 30
 b. Scaffolding must be sound and strong and easy to maintain and
erect.
c. Openings left in the block work must be closed before finishing
the plaster.
6.1.11. In case all the block work is not raised together, raking back shall be
carried out at an angle not steeper than 45 degrees. No blockwork shall
be carried up higher than 1.5m in one day. Joints in walling to be
plastered or rendered shall be raked out 10mm deep to form a key.
6.1.12. Two nos. of 8 mm diameter reinforcement steel shall be provided in
every 3rd layer as horizontal reinforcement. Vertical stiffener shall be
provided in form of either 2 nos. 12 mm diameter steel placed at every
4m OR 1 no. of 10 mm diameter steel at every 1.5 m & by grouting the
void in masonry block using cement sand mortar ([Link]).
6.1.13. For installation of electrical (or any other service) conduit in the block
work, one side of the block work may be cut. The conduits shall be
installed in the hollow part of the block. Chasing of the front face of the
block shall not be permitted.
6.1.14. The date of construction of block work shall be written on wall by paint.
6.1.15. Workmen Skills: The following tasks with regard to concrete works
require specific skills and the contractor shall arrange skilled and trained
workmen for carrying out these tasks:
6.1.16. Mortar batching and mixing
6.1.17. Transportation using hoists
6.1.18. Blocks Laying
6.1.19. Blockwork finishing including pointing
6.1.20. The workmen deployed on the tasks specified above shall be provided
periodical training and the names of trained and certified workmen shall
be furnished to the Engineer for approval.
6.1.21. At all times during blockwork operation, the workmen carrying out these
tasks shall be rehabilitee identifiable through their ID card or badges.
6.1.22. If the Engineer is of the opinion that any workmen engaged for a task
specified above is not competent to carry out the same, he shall have the
authority to order withdrawal of such workmen from the blockwork
operations.
6.1.23. Detailed information and guidelines, preferably in graphic format, dealing
with the correct method of carrying out the tasks shall be available and
prominently displayed at the work place.
6.1.24. Finishing of Joints: Strike off joints not visible in the finished work as the
work proceeds. Fill joints in fair faced work as the work proceeds to
provide a smooth surface flush with the block face.
6.2 Brick Masonry
6.2.1. Bricks shall be soaked in water before use for a period for the water to
just penetrate the whole depth of the bricks. Alternatively bricks may be
adequately soaked in stacks by profusely spraying with clean water at

Page 16 of 30
 regular intervals for a period not less than six hours. The bricks required
for masonry work using mud mortar shall not be soaked. When the bricks
are soaked they shall be removed from the tank sufficiently early so that
at the time of laying they are skin-dry. Such soaked bricks shall be stacked
on a clean place where they are not again spoiled by dirt earth etc.
6.2.2. The window sill levels shall be properly ascertained by the Contractor
prior to commencement of brickwork. All surfaces on which brickwork is
to be built shall be cleaned of any foreign matter influencing the bond
between the surface and brickwork. The use of chipped or defaced blocks
will not be permitted in any facework. Brickwork shall be laid in English
bond.(Fig. 1 as annexed). For brick work in half brick wall, bricks shall be
laid in stretcher bond. No part of the wall during its construction shall rise
more than 1.0 metre above the general construction level. Parts of wall
left at different levels shall be raked back at an angle of 45 degrees or less
with the horizontal. Toothing shall not be permitted as an alternative to
raking back. For half brick partition to be keyed into main walls, indents
shall be left in the main walls. Mortar joints shall be kept uniformly 10
mm thick.. Joints shall be raked 10 mm deep while mortar is green.
6.2.3. Broken bricks shall not be used. Cut bricks shall be used if necessary to
complete bond or as closers.
6.2.4. Bricks shall be laid with frogs upwards over full mortar beds. Bricks shall
be pressed into mortar and tapped into final position so as to embed fully
in mortar. Inside faces shall be buttered with mortar before the next
bricks is placed and pressed against it. Thus all joints between bricks shall
be fully filled with mortar. Brickworks two bricks thick or more shall have
both faces in true plane. Brickwork of lesser thickness shall have one
selected face in true plane.
6.2.5. Half or cut bricks shall not be used except as closer where necessary to
complete the bond. Closers in such cases, shall be cut to the required size
and used near the ends of the wall. Header bond shall be used preferably
in all courses in curved plan for ensuring better alignment.
6.2.6. Where required, damp proof course layer shall be laid as specified
Exposed faces and corners of masonry damaged during construction shall
be removed and repaired in a manner acceptable to Engineer.
6.2.7. All pipe fittings and specials, spouts, hold fasts and other fixtures which
are required to be built into the walls shall be embedded, as specified, in
their correct position as the work proceeds unless otherwise directed by
the Engineer-in-Charge.
6.2.8. Top courses of all plinths, parapets, steps and top of walls below floor
and roof slabs shall be laid with brick on edge, unless specified otherwise.
Brick on edge laid in the top courses at corner of walls shall be properly
radiated and keyed into position to form cut corners as shown in Fig 6.4.
Where bricks cannot be cut to the required shape to form cut corners,
cement concrete [Link] (1 cement :2 coarse sand : 4 graded stone

Page 17 of 30
 aggregate 20 mm nominal size) equal to thickness of course shall be
provided in lieu of cut bricks. In case of walls one brick thick and under,
one face shall be kept even and in proper plane, while the other face may
be slightly rough. In case of walls more than one brick thick, both the
faces shall be kept even and in proper plane. To facilitate taking service
lines later without excessive cutting of completed work, sleeves shall be
provided, where specified, while raising the brick work. Such sleeves in
external walls shall be sloped down outward so as to avoid passage of
water inside.
6.2.9. Top of the brickwork in coping and sills in external walls shall be slightly
tilted. Where brick coping and sills are projecting beyond the face of the
wall, drip course/throating shall be provided where indicated. New built
work shall be covered with gunny bags or tarpaulin so as to prevent the
mortar from being washed away. Damage, if any, shall be made good to
the satisfaction of the Engineer-in-Charge
6.2.10. Vertical reinforcement in the form of bars (MS or high strength deformed
bars or thermo mechanically treated bars as per direction of Engineer-in-
Charge)), considered necessary at the corners and junction of walls and
jamb opening doors, windows etc. shall be encased with cement mortar
not leaner than 1:4 (1 cement : 4 coarse sand), or cement concrete mix as
specified. The reinforcement shall be suitably tied, properly embedded in
the foundation and at roof level. The dia. of bars shall not be less than 8
mm and concrete grade shall be minimum [Link] (1 cement: 3 coarse sand
: 6 graded stone aggregate 20 mm nominal size).
6.2.11. In retaining walls and the like, where water is likely to accumulate, weep
holes, 50 to 75 mm square shall be provided at 2 m vertically and
horizontally unless otherwise specified. The lowest weep hole shall be at
about 30 cm above the ground level. All weep holes shall be surrounded
by loose stones and shall have sufficient fall to drain out the water
quickly.
6.2.12. Work of cutting chases, wherever required to be made in the walls for
housing G.I. pipe, CI pipe or any other fixtures shall be carried out in
various locations as per guidelines given below :
a. Cutting of chases in one brick thick and above load bearing walls.
 As far as possible services should be planned with the help of
vertical chases. Horizontal chases should be avoided
 The depths of vertical chases and horizontal chases shall not
exceed one-third and one-sixth of the thickness of the masonry
respectively.
 When narrow stretches of masonry (or short length of walls) such
as between doors and windows, cannot be avoided they should
not be pierced with openings for soil pipes or waste pipes or
timber joints, etc. Where there is a possibility of load
concentration such narrow lengths of walls shall be checked for

Page 18 of 30
 stresses and high strength bricks in mortar or concrete walls
provided, if required.
 Horizontal chases when unavoidable should be located in the
upper or lower one-third of height of storey and not more than
three chases should be permitted in any stretch of a wall. No
continuous horizontal chase shall exceed one metre in length.
Where unavoidable, stresses in the affected area should be
checked and kept within the permissible limits.
 Vertical chases should not be closer than 2 m in any stretch of a
wall. These shall be kept away from bearings of beams and lintels.
If unavoidable, stresses in the affected area should be checked
and kept within permissible limits.
 Masonry directly above a recess, if wider than 30 cm horizontal
dimension) should be supported on lintel. Holes in masonry may
be provided upto 30 cm width and 30 cm height without any
lintel. In the case of circular holes in the masonry, no lintel need
be provided for holes upto 40 cm in diameter.
b. Cutting of chases in half brick load bearing walls:
 No chase shall be permitted in half brick load bearing walls and as
such no recessed conduits and concealed pipes shall be provided
with half brick thick load bearing walls.
c. Cutting of chases in half brick non-load bearing wall :
 Services should be planned with the help of vertical chases.
Horizontal chase should be provided only when unavoidable
6.2.13. Finishing of Joints: The face of brick work may be finished flush or by
pointing. In flush finishing either the face joints of the mortar shall be
worked out while still green to give a finished surface flush with the face
of the brick work or the joints shall be squarely raked out to a depth of 1
cm while the mortar is still green for subsequently plastering. The faces
of brick work shall be cleaned with wire brush so as to remove any
splashes of mortar during the course of raising the brick work. In
pointing, the joints shall be squarely raked out to a depth of 1.5 cm while
the mortar is still green and raked joints shall be brushed to remove dust
and loose particles and well wetted, and shall be later refilled with
mortar to give ruled finish. Some such finishes are ‘flush’, ‘weathered’,
ruled, etc. The thickness of all types of joints including brick wall joints
and cross joints shall be such that four course and three joints taken
consecutively shall measure as follows:
 In case of modular bricks conforming to IS 1077 specification for
common burnt clay buildings bricks, equal to 39 cm.
 In case of non-modular bricks, it shall be equal to 31 cm
6.2.14. Curing: The brick work shall be constantly kept moist on all faces for a
minimum period of seven days. Brick work done during the day shall be

Page 19 of 30
 suitably marked indicating the date on which the work is done so as to
keep a watch on the curing period
6.2.15. Scaffolding: Please refer scaffolding of Blockwork specified above.
6.2 Random Rubble Stone Masonry
6.2.1. For all works below ground level the masonry shall be random rubble
uncoursed with ordinary quarry dressed stones for the hearting and
selected quarry dressed stones for the facing.
6.2.2. For all works above ground level and in superstructure the masonry shall
be random rubble uncoursed, well bonded, faced with hammer dressed
stones with squared quoins at corners. The bushings on the face shall
not be more than 40 mm on an exposed face and on the face to be
plastered it shall not project by more than 12 mm nor shall it have
depressions more than 10 mm from the average wall surface.
6.2.3. Face stones shall extend back sufficiently and bond well with the
masonry. The depth of stone from the face of the wall inwards shall not
be less than the height or breadth at the face. Face stones or hearting
stones shall not be less than 150 mm in any direction.
6.2.4. Chips and spalls shall be used wherever necessary to avoid thick mortar
joints and to ensure that no hollow spaces are left in the masonry. The
use of chips and spalls in the hearting shall not exceed 20 percent of the
quantity of stone masonry. Spalls & chips shall not be used on the face of
the wall and below hearting stones to bring them to the level of face
stones.
6.2.5. The maximum thickness of joints shall not exceed 20 mm. All joints shall
be completely filled with mortar. When plastering or pointing is not
required to be done, the joints shall be struck flush and finished as the
work proceeds. Otherwise, the joints shall be raked to a minimum depth
of 20 mm by a raking tool during the progress of the work while the
mortar is still green.
6.2.6. Through or bond stones shall be provided in walls up to 600 mm thick
and in case of walls above 600 mm thickness, a set of two or more bond
stones overlapping each other by at least 150 mm shall be provided in a
line from face to back. In case of highly absorbent types of stones
(porous lime stone and sand stone, etc.) the bond stone shall extend
about two-thirds into the wall and a set of two or more bond stones
overlapping each other by at least 150 mm shall he provided. Each bond
stone or a set of bond stones shall be provided for every 0.5 sqm of wall
surface.
6.2.7. All stones shall be sufficiently wet before laying to prevent absorption of
water from the mortar. All connected walls in a structure shall be
normally raised uniformly and regularly. However if any part of the
masonry is required to be left behind, the wall shall be raked back (and
not saw toothed) at an angle not exceeding 45. Masonry work shall not
be raised by more than one metre per day.

Page 20 of 30
 6.2.8. Stones shall be laid with its grains horizontal so that the load transmitted
is always perpendicular to the natural bed.
6.2.9. Green work shall be protected from rain by suitable covering. Masonry
work shall be kept constantly moist on all the faces for a minimum period
of seven days for proper curing of the joints.
6.2.10. Scaffolding
a. Single scaffolding having one set of vertical support shall be used and
the other end of the horizontal scaffolding member shall rest in a hole
provided in the masonry. The support shall be sound and strongly tied
together with horizontal pieces over which the scaffolding planks shall
be fixed.
b. The holes which provide resting space for horizontal members shall
not be left in pillars less than one metre in width. The holes left in the
masonry work for supporting the scaffolding shall be filled and made
good with concrete of M-15 before plastering /pointing.
c. The scaffolding shall be strong enough to withstand all loads likely to
come upon it and shall meet the requirements specified in IS 2750:
1964.
d. For pillars less than one metre in width or for first class masonry or for
building having more than two storeys, double scaffolding having
two sets of vertical support shall be provided.
6.3 Coursed Rubble Stone Masonry (First Sort)
6.3.1. All stones shall be wetted before use. All courses shall be laid truly horizontal
and shall be of the same height in any course. The height of course shall
not be less than 150 mm and not more than 300 mm. The width of stone
shall not be less than its height.
6.3.2. Face stones shall tail into the work for not less than their height and at
least 1/3rd the number of stones, shall tail into the work for a length not
less than twice their- height but not more than three-fourths the
thickness of the wall whichever is smaller. These should be laid as
headers and stretchers alternately to break joints by at least 75 mm.
6.3.3. The face stones shall be squared on all joints and beds; the bed joints
being hammer or chisel dressed true and square for at least 80 mm back
from the face and the side joints for at least 40 mm. The face of the
stone shall be hammer dressed so that the bushing shall not be more
than 40 mm on an exposed face and 10 mm on a face to be plastered. No
portion of the dressed surface shall show a depth of gap more than 6 mm
from a straight edge placed on it. The remaining unexposed portion of
the stone shall not project beyond the surface of bed and side joints.
6.3.4. No spalls or pinning shall be allowed on the face. All bed joints shall be
horizontal and side joints shall be vertical and no joints shall be more
than 10 mm in thickness. When plastering or pointing is not required to
be done, the joints shall be struck flush and finished as the work
proceeds. Otherwise, the joints shall be raked to a minimum depth of 20

Page 21 of 30
 mm by a raking tool, during the progress of the work while the mortar is
still green.
6.3.5. Hearting shall consist of flat bedded stones carefully laid on their proper
beds and solidly bedded in mortar. The use of chips shall be restricted to
the filling of interstices between the adjacent stones, in hearting and
these shall not exceed 10 percent of the quantity of the stone masonry.
Care shall be taken so that no hollow spaces are left anywhere in the
masonry.
6.3.6. The through or bond stones shall be provided at 1.5 m to 1.8 m apart
clear in every course but staggered at alternate courses.
6.3.7. The quoins which shall be of the same height as the course, in which they
occur, shall not be less than 450 mm in any direction. Quoin stones shall
be laid as stretchers and headers alternately. They shall be laid square on
their beds, which shall he rough chisel dressed to a depth of at least 100
mm from the face. These stones shall have a minimum uniform chisel
draft of 25mm width at four edges, all the edges being in the same plane.
6.4 Coursed Rubble Stone Masonry (Second Sort)
6.4.1. Shall be same as of Coursed Rubble Masonry(first Sort) explained above
except that the use of chips shall not exceed 15% of the quantity of stone
masonry and stone, in each course need not be of the same height but
not more than two stones shall be used in the height of a course.

7. Quality Management
The contractor shall put in place a comprehensive Quality management plan to
ensure that the work is carried out as per specifications and compliance to all
requirements are established and demonstrated through comprehensive
documentation. The contractor shall engage a qualified Quality Manager to
implement the quality plan.
7.1. Unless annexed to these specifications the contractor shall submit an
inspection and test plan [ITP] for the approval of the Engineer. The ITP
shall cover tests on incoming materials, supervision of the process and
test on the completed work.
7.2. The ITP shall lay down the characteristics to be tested/inspected,
frequency of tests, acceptance criteria and the manner of documenting
the results. Any test, compliance to which is mandatory for further
progress of the next stage of work shall be identified as a ‘Hold point’.
7.3. In the absence of an approved ITP, provisions of IS: 2185 and any other
Indian Standard referred there in shall apply with regard to acceptance
criteria and tolerances.
As general guidelines, Care shall be taken to keep the perpends properly
aligned within following maximum permissible tolerances for brick work:
a. Deviation from vertical within a storey shall not exceed 6 mm per 3 m
height.

Page 22 of 30
 b. Deviation in verticality in total height of any wall of building more
than one storey in height shall not exceed 12.5 mm.
c. Deviation from position shown on plan of any brick work shall not
exceed 12.5 mm.
d. Relative displacement between load bearing wall in adjacent storeys
intended to be vertical alignments shall not exceed 6 mm.
e. A set of tools comprising of wooden straight edge, masonic spirit
levels, square, 1 metre rule line and plumb shall be kept on the site of
work for every 3 masons for proper check during the progress of
work.

Block work Tolerances (mm)

Position on plan 15
Length 15
Height 10
Level of bed joints (in any 5 m) 10
Straightness (in any 5 m) 15
Verticality (in any 3 m) 15
7.4. In case of any dispute about the interpretation of the test results or
inspection of the block work, the decision of Engineer shall be final.

8. Safety Considerations and Requirements

Apart from general safety and health hazards like working at heights, falling objects etc.,
the contractor shall assess the hazards associated with block works and shall take
specific action to mitigate against the same.
8.1. As a general guide, the following safety hazards are identified as associated with
concrete construction
08.1.1. Falling hazards from heights
08.1.2. Scaffolding arrangement.
8.2. All workmen shall be made aware of the specific hazards that they face while
working with Masonry Works and shall be provided with specific personal
protective equipment to protect them.

9. Environmental Considerations and Requirements

Apart from general environmental impact of construction activities, the contractor shall
assess the environmental impact associated with Masonry works and shall take specific
action to mitigate against the same.
9.1. As a general guide, the following safety hazards are identified as associated with
masonry works
9.2. Particulate pollution due to dust in the aggregates, cement, fly ash.

Page 23 of 30
[Link] and Delivery
Work related to Masonry construction shall not be deemed as complete till such time all
the following conditions are fulfilled:
All Masonry in various parts of the structure is shown to have complied with the
drawings and specifications.
There are no defects in the Masonry or all defects are repaired to the satisfaction of the
Engineer.
All quality tests and inspection records are furnished to the Engineer.

[Link] of Measurement & Rate

11.1. Method of measurements
11.1.1. Concrete Block Masonry: Hollow or solid cement concrete block work
shall be measured in square meters for every thickness of masonry
mentioned in BOQ. Any work done extra over the specified dimensions
shall not be measured for payment.
11.1.2. Brick Masonry:
a. Brick work shall be measured in cubic metres unless otherwise
specified. Any extra work over the specified dimensions shall be
ignored. Dimensions shall be measured correct to the nearest 0.01
m i.e. 1 cm. Areas shall be calculated to the nearest 0.01 sq mtrs
and the cubic contents shall be worked out to the nearest 0.01
cubic metres.
b. No deductions or additions shall be done and no extra payment
made for the following:
 Ends of dissimilar materials (that is, joists, beams, lintels,
posts, girders, rafters, purlins, trusses, corbels, steps, etc.); up
to 0.1 m2 in section;
 Opening up to 0.1 m2 in area (In calculating area of an
opening, any separate lintel or sills shall be included with the
size of the opening but end portions of lintel shall be
excluded. Extra width of rebated reveals, if any, shall also be
excluded);
 Wall plates, bed plates, and bearing of slabs, chajjas and the
like, where thickness does not exceed 10 cm and bearing does
not extend over the full thickness of wall;
 Cement concrete blocks as for hold fasts and holding down
bolts;
 Iron fixtures, such as wall ties, pipes up to 300 mm diameter
and hold fasts for doors and windows; and
 Chases of section not exceeding 50 cm in girth.
 Bearing portion of drip course, bearing of moulding and
cornice.

Page 24 of 30
 c. Exposed brickwork using selected ordinary brick or face bricks for
the exposed face shall be measured in area as an extra over the
ordinary brickwork if so provided in the Schedule of Items. It shall
be measured by volume including the composite backing if so
provided in the Schedule.
d. Walls half brick thick and less shall each be measured separately in
square meters stating thickness.
e. String courses, projecting pilasters, aprons, sills and other
projections shall be fully described and measured separately in
running metres stating dimensions of each projection.
f. Square or rectangular pillars shall be measured separately in cubic
metres in multiple of half brick.
g. Circular pillars shall be measured separately in cubic metres as per
actual dimensions
h. Brick work curved on plan shall be measured like the brick work in
straight walls and shall include all cutting and wastage of bricks,
tapered vertical joints and use of extra mortar, if any. Brick work
curved on plan to a mean radius not exceeding six metres shall be
measured separately and extra shall be payable over the rates for
brick work in straight walls. Nothing extra shall be payable if the
mean radius of the brick work curved in plan exceeds six
[Link] walls shall be measured net as walls and extra
payment shall be allowed for making tapered surface for brick
work in walls.
i. Brick work with brick tiles shall be measured and paid for
separately.
11.1.3. Stone Masonry:
a. Measurement shall be in cum correct to two places of decimal.
The quantities measured and paid for, shall be those as actually
executed after making necessary deductions for openings, lintels
etc.
b. No deductions or additions shall be done and no extra payment
made for the following:
 Ends of dissimilar materials (that is, joists, beams, lintels,
posts, girders, rafters, purlins, trusses, corbels, steps, etc.); up
to 0.1 m2 in section;
 Opening up to 0.1 m2 in area (In calculating area of an
opening, any separate lintel or sills shall be included with the
size of the opening but end portions of lintel shall be
excluded. Extra width of rebated reveals, if any, shall also be
excluded);
 Wall plates, bed plates, and bearing of slabs, chajjas and the
like, where thickness does not exceed 10 cm and bearing does
not extend over the full thickness of wall;

Page 25 of 30
  The bearing of floor and roof shall be deducted from wall
masonry.
 Drain holes and recesses for cement concrete blocks to embed
hold fasts for doors, windows etc.
 Building in masonry, iron fixture, pipes upto 300 mm dia, hold
fasts of doors and windows etc.
 Forming chases in masonry each upto section of 350 sq cm.
c. Masonry (excluding fixing brick work) in chimney breasts with
smoke of air flues not exceeding 20 sq dm (0.20 sq m) in sectional
area shall be measured as solid and no extra payment shall be
made for pargetting and coring such flues. Where flues exceed 20
sq dm (0.20 sq m) sectional area, deduction shall be made for the
same and pargetting and coring flues shall be measured in running
metres stating size of flues and paid for separately. Aperture for
fire place shall not be deducted and no extra payment made for
splaying of jambs and throating.
d. Apertures for fire places shall not be deducted and extra labour
shall not be measured for splaying of jambs, throating and making
arch to support the opening.
e. Square or Rectangular Pillars: These shall be measured as walls,
but extra payment shall be allowed for stone work in square or
rectangular pillars over the rate for stone work in walls.
Rectangular pillar shall mean a detached masonry support
rectangular in section, such that its breadth does not exceed two
and a half times the thickness.
f. Circular Pillars (Columns): These shall be measured as per actual
dimensions, but extra payment shall be allowed for stone work in
circular pillars over the rate for stone work in walls. The diameter
as well as length shall be measured correct to a cm.
g. Tapered walls shall be measured net, as per actual dimensions and
paid for as other walls.
h. Curved Masonry: Stone masonry curved on plan to a mean radius
exceeding 6 meters shall be measured and included with general
stone work. Stone work circular on plan to a mean radius not
exceeding 6 meters shall be measured separately and shall include
all cuttings and waste and templates. It shall be measured as the
mean length of the wall.
11.2. RATES
Providing safe working conditions at all work fronts at all times shall be the
responsibility of the Contractor. Adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
shall be provided to all workers & Visitors to the Site. The quoted rates shall be
deemed to include for all safety related expenses as required for the nature of
the work being executed unless otherwise covered specifically as a payable item
in the BOQ pertaining to safety items.
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Rates for items shall include followings –
11.2.1. Material and labour, for the completion of items as specified including
any centering, shuttering, curing etc. at all heights and levels
11.2.2. Raking out joints.
11.2.3. Preparing the tops and sides of masonry done earlier.
11.2.4. Forming and preparing expansion, contraction or construction joints as
detailed above or specified in the BOQ or drawings.
11.2.5. Providing weep holes, openings, etc. for outlets, embedding down take
pipes, etc. wherever necessary during construction, and finishing
exposed surfaces as per instruction of the Engineer.
11.2.6. Bond stones or cement concrete bond blocks
11.2.7. Rough cutting and waste for forming gables cores, skew backs or
spandrels of arches, splays at eaves and all rough cutting in the body of
walling unless otherwise specified.
11.2.8. Curing and protection as specified.

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12. Annexures

Figure 1 English Bond

Figure 2 : Random Rubble Masonry

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Figure 3 : Rubble Masonry - Coursed

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