DESIGN OF MASONRY COLUMNS

• An isolated, axially loaded masonry element in which the width is

not greater than four times the thickness is defined as a column as
indicated in Figure 3 of the code.

• In addition the masonry between any two openings in a wall is, by

definition, a column,-(Clause 28.3.1.3). Columns formed by
adjacent openings in walls

column
 DESIGN OF MASONRY COLUMNS
• In most cases columns are solid but they may have a cavity, as
shown in Figure

In cavity columns:
(i) b ≤ (4 × the overall thickness) when both leaves are loaded, and
(ii) b ≤ (4 × thickness of the loaded leaf) when only one leaf is
loaded.
 Design vertical load resistance
The design of axially loaded columns is very similar to that for walls,
with additional consideration being given to the possibility of buckling
about both the x–x axis and the y−y axis.
 Design vertical load resistance
In Clause 32.2.2 the design vertical load resistance of rectangular
columns is given by:
Effective height of columns
• The effective height of columns is defined in Clause 28.3.1.2
and Clause 28.3.1.3 (see Section 8.4.6).
• Piers in which the thickness tp, is greater than 1.5 × the
thickness of the wall of which they form a part should be
treated as columns for effective height considerations.
• The effective height of columns should be taken as the
distance between lateral supports or twice the height of the
column in respect of a direction in which lateral support is
not provided, as indicated in Clause 28.3.1.2. (Note:
Enhanced resistance to lateral movement applies to walls,
not columns.)
• As indicated in Clause 28.2.2.2 resistance to lateral movement may
be assumed where:
(a) ‘ floors or roofs of any form of construction span on to the wall or column, from
both sides at the same level;’
(b) an in-situ concrete floor or roof, or a precast concrete floor or roof giving
equivalent restraint, irrespective of the direction of the span, has a bearing of at
least one-half the thickness of the wall or inner leaf of a cavity wall or column on
to which it spans but in no case less than 90 mm;’
(c) in the case of houses of not more than three storeys, a timber floor spans on to
a wall from one side and has a bearing of not less than 90 mm.’ ‘
• Preferably, columns should be provided with lateral support in both
horizontal directions.
Example 8.3: Masonry Column
A solid masonry column is required to support an eccentric axial load of 200
kN, as shown in Figure 8.45. Assume that lateral support is provided at the
top of the column about both axes. Using the design data given, check the
suitability of the proposed brick/mortar combination.