How to Check Brick Quality at Site?
Bricks are an important building material used for constructing structures of all sizes and types. The quality of bricks used in a construction project can have a significant impact on the durability and strength of the structure. Therefore, it is important to check the quality of bricks before using them in any construction project. In this blog post, we will discuss the various ways to check brick quality at a construction site.
Visual Inspection
The first step in checking brick quality is to visually inspect them. Look for any cracks, chips, or damage on the surface of the bricks. Also, ensure that the bricks have uniform color and size. Bricks with uneven sizes or colors may indicate poor quality.
Water Absorption Test
The water absorption test is one of the most important tests to determine the quality of bricks. In this test, a brick is weighed, and then soaked in water for 24 hours. After 24 hours, the brick is removed from the water, wiped dry and weighed again. The difference between the two weights indicates the amount of water absorbed by the brick. The water absorption rate of a good quality brick should be less than 20%.
Sound Test
The sound test is a simple but effective method to check brick quality. In this test, two bricks are tapped together, and the sound produced is observed. Good quality bricks produce a clear ringing sound, while poor quality bricks produce a dull thud.
Dimension Test
The dimensions of the brick should be checked to ensure uniformity in size. The standard size of a brick is 190mm x 90mm x 90mm. Any deviation from this size could indicate poor quality (Except Early Specified Size) .
Strength Test
The compressive strength of the bricks should be tested to ensure their durability. In this test, a brick is placed between two plates and pressure is applied until it breaks. The compressive strength of good quality bricks should be at least 3.5 N/mm2.
Efflorescence Test
Efflorescence is a white powdery substance that appears on the surface of bricks due to the presence of salts. The efflorescence test is carried out by soaking the bricks in water for 24 hours and then observing the surface for the appearance of white powder. Bricks with high efflorescence may indicate poor quality.
