THE EVOLUTION OF THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF MASONRY BUILDINGS IN CANADA

This paper provides an opportunity to formulate a statement of the current status of masonry engineering in Canada with some perspective from the past and some insight into potential for the future. Notwithstanding the fact that this represents the view of the author only, an attempt is made to provide a balanced and comprehensive overview. When we talk about masonry in Canada, by far the largest part of clay brick production and most of the concrete block used are employed in buildings based on the very simple to apply provisions of Part 9 of the National Building Code that applies to small buildings and is not “engineered” through any proper analysis and does not require the participation of a licensed structural engineer. However, growth potential is greatest in the area of engineered masonry. This paper provides information on education, research, development of codes and standards, and the general state of masonry engineering in Canada. Problems facing masonry in terms of maintaining or expanding market share of construction, areas requiring most attention, and opportunities for enhancement of masonry are discussed