TABLE OF CONTENTS Before beginning construction, materials must be properly stored and protected from the weather and supporting elements inspected for completion and accuracy.
The methods used to store and handle materials affect both the performance and appearance of the finished masonry. Weather should not affect properly stored and protected materials, but improper procedures can result in physical damage to units and accessories, or contamination of mortar ingredients. As a general rule, materials should always be stored high and dry and protected from weather.
The color, texture, and size of units delivered to the job site should be verified before the shipment is accepted. Masonry units should be delivered and stored on wooden pallets to prevent moisture absorption from the soil, and covered with water-repellent tarps or plastic covers to prevent wetting, staining, or discoloration. Masonry units that are kept dry but subjected to freezing temperatures while stored may be used in construction without damage to the units or to the masonry. Masonry units that have absorbed moisture from rain or snow and are then frozen, however, must be thawed before they can be used, so it is always easiest to keep the units covered and dry. Aggregates should be protected against contamination from rain, ice, and snow and from blowing dust and soil during construction so that they do not contribute to staining or reduced mortar bond strength. Different aggregates should be stored in separate stockpiles and all aggregate stockpiles covered...
