Types of brick arches
The archway in this Georgian brick facade in Limerick has been restored back to its original condition. |
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Bricks are small rectangular blocks that can be used to form parts of buildings, typically for the construction of walls and paving and for more complex features such as arches. Arches are compressive structures, that is, there are no tensile stresses. They are self-supporting - stabilised by the force of gravity acting on their weight to hold them in compression. This makes them very stable and efficient, capable of larger spans and supporting greater loads than horizontal beams.
[edit] Brick arch construction types
The construction of traditional brick arches is dependent on the arrangement of the bricks over the opening. Wedge-shaped blocks, called voussoirs, are set flank-to-flank with the upper edge being wider than the lower edge. Downward pressure on the arch has the effect of forcing the voussoirs together instead of apart. The voussoir that is positioned in the centre of the arch is known as the key.
In ordinary brickwork, there are two standard types of arches: the rough segmental arch and the gauged (or cut) semi-circular arch.
[edit] Rough segmental arch
Also referred to as a rough arch, this is one of the most common types of brick arches. It can be used in most types of construction.
Because it forms part of a circle and is composed of half-brick rings, it is very simple to build. A half brick ring is a row of bricks showing heading faces only.
The term 'rough' in this context means that the bricks used in the arch are not cut or trimmed to any shape or pattern - they are simply left in their original condition. This means they present their rectangular ends to view.
In some cases, it may be necessary to incorporate rough axed arches, which are arches made of roughly cut hard bricks. For the sake of appearance, these bricks are cut and rough trimmed to fit the wedge shape of the voussoirs. Rough axed arches are not frequently used in modern construction techniques due to the extra cost, preparation time and level of skill required. It is also extremely difficult to cut axed arches from certain modern hard brick materials.
[edit] Gauged semi-circular arch
This type of arch is made of finely cut soft bricks. The bricks are fashioned from a design template that is used to produce the correct shape.
These special bricks (known as ‘rubbers’) are fired at a low temperature to make them soft enough to shape. They are then repeatedly rubbed and measured (or ‘gauged’) until they are the proper size. Due to the nature of this process, this type of arch can be quite costly and requires a significant degree of skill. In some instances, it may be possible to use specially made hard bricks in gauged arches.
The bricks in this type of construction are gauged in such a way that the joints radiate from a common centre point. This means that the key is placed so the centre line of the arch passes through the centre of the brick (like a keystone in an arch constructed from stone).
[edit] A lintel classified as a brick arch
A third brick arch construction technique is the soldier arch, although this method is more accurately categorised as a type of lintel. Soldier arches are not composed of elements that support each other while creating the form of a curve, which is why they are not technically arches.
This method of construction consists of bricks placed on their ends, which is why they are referred to as soldiers. It is a flat arch that has the long sides of the uncut bricks (also referred to as stretchers) set vertically.
Brick soldiers are not mutually self supporting. They require another other type of support, such as a wooden frame or a lintel.
Early types of this sort of arch were reinforced by mild steel rods which passed through perforations in the bricks. Later types are supported by special projections on pre-cast concrete or steel lintels.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.