IS 1443:1992 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for construction of masonry structures. This code of practice outlines guidelines for the proper construction of masonry structures. It covers the selection of masonry units, preparation of mortar, systematic laying techniques to ensure bonding, and adequate curing practices for long-term structural durability.
Specifies requirements for the design and construction of masonry structures using various types of masonry units.
| Parameter | IS Value | International | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mortar Joint Thickness | Nominally 10 mm, shall not exceed 15 mm. (As per similar code IS 2212) | Nominal bed joint thickness should be 10 mm, with a permitted range of 6 mm to 15 mm. | EN 1996-2 |
| Pre-wetting of Clay Bricks | Bricks with water absorption between 5-10% to be wetted; bricks with >10% to be soaked until air bubbles cease. (As per similar code IS 2212) | Units with an Initial Rate of Absorption (IRA) > 1 g/min/in² (0.0016 g/s/mm²) shall be wetted to achieve a surface-damp condition. | TMS 602-16 |
| Maximum Height of Wall per Day | The height of masonry shall be restricted to not more than 1.5 m per day. | Not explicitly limited; governed by stability during construction and prevention of mortar squeeze-out. Considered a contractor method. | TMS 602-16 / General Practice |
| Curing Period | Masonry shall be kept constantly moist on all faces for a minimum period of 7 days. | Newly laid masonry using cement-lime mortar shall be protected from moisture loss for 24 hours. | TMS 602-16 |
| Raking Joints for Pointing | Rake out joints to a depth of 15 mm while the mortar is still green. | Rake joints to a uniform depth of 1/4 in. to 3/4 in. (6 mm to 19 mm) while the mortar is soft enough. | TMS 602-16 |
| Mortar Proportions | Specified by volume of cement to sand (e.g., 1:4, 1:6), corresponding to strength grades. | Specified by type (e.g., Type N, S, M) with defined proportions of cement:lime:sand (e.g., 1:1:6 for Type N). | TMS 602-16 |