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Understanding the Risks and Challenges of Unreinforced Masonry Construction

A close-up view of an old red brick wall, showing unevenly arranged bricks with visible mortar lines and signs of aging and weathering.

Unreinforced masonry (URM) refers to a construction technique that utilizes load-bearing walls made of brick, stone, or concrete blocks without any reinforcement, such as steel bars or mesh. While this construction method has been employed for centuries, it poses significant risks and challenges in terms of structural integrity and seismic performance. Let’s dive into the […]