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IS 6042 (1969): Code of practice for construction of
lightweight concrete block masonry [CED 53: Cement Matrix
Products]
Gr6
IS:6042-1969
(R~amrmad 1996)
I ndian Standard
CODE OF PRACTICE FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF LIGHT-WEIGHT
CONCRETE BLOCK MASONRY
( Second Reprint MAY 1998 )
UDC 693.28 : 691.322-431 : 69.001.3
Q Copyright 1971
BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS
MANAK BHAVAN. 9 BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR MARG
NEW DELHI 110002
October 1971






( Reaffirmed 2005 )
IS : 6042 - 1969
I ndian Standard
CODE OF PRACTICE FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF LIGHT-WEIGHT
CONCRETE BLOCK MASONRY
Cement and Concrete Sectional Committee, BDC 2
Chairman
SHRI J. DATT
Members
Representing
The Concrete Association of India, Bombay
SHRI M. A. MEATA ( Alternate to
Shri .J. Datt )
SHRI A. P. BAQCHI
SHRI P. S. BHATNAGAR
Sahu Cement Service, New Delhi
Beas Designs Organization. New Delhi
SH KI A. M. SINGAL ( Alternate )
. -
DR S. K. CHOPRA Central Building Research Institute ( CSIR ),
Roorkee
SARI J. S. SHARYA ( Alternafe )
DIRECTOK Central Road Research Institute (CSIR ). New
Delhi
,.
DR R. K. GHOSH ( Alternate )
DIRECTOR ( CSM ) Central Water & Power Commission, New Delhi
DIRECTOR ( DAMS III ) ( Alternate 1
DIRECTOR-IN-CHARGE ( Nk j
DR R. K. GHOSH
DR K. R. HATTIAN~ADI
SHHI P. J. JAGUS ( Alternate)
JOINT DIRECTOR, STANDARDS
(B&S)
G&ological Survey of India, Lucknow
Indian Roads Congress, New Delhi
The Associated Cement Companies Ltd, Bombay
Research, Designs & Standards Organization,
Lucknow
DEPUTY DIRECTOR, STAND-
ARDS ( B & S ) ( Alternate)
SHRI S. B. JOSHI
Still1 M. T. KAhSE
S. B. Joshi & Co Ltd, Bombay
Directorate General of Supplies & Disposals
Roads Wing, Ministry of Transport & Shipping
fate )
SHRI KARTX PHASAD
SHRI S. L. KATHURIA (Altsm
Stlnr S. N. MUKERJI National Test House, Calcutta
SHRI E. K. RAMCHANDRAN ( Alternate )
SIIHI ERACH A. NADIRSHAH The Institution of Engineers ( India ), Calcutta
SHHI K. K. NA~IHIAR In personal capacity ( Ramanalqa , II First Crescent
Park Road, Gandhinagar, Adyar, Madras)
( Continued on page 2 )
BUREAU OF INDEAN STANDARDS
MANAK BHAVAN, 9 BAHADUR SHAH %AFI\R MARG
_ NEW DFLHI IlOO(i2
-e
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IS : 6042 - 1969
( Continued from page 1 )
Members
SHRI M. L. NANDA
SUPEHINTENDINQ ENQINEER,
2ND CIRCLE (x&WZfe)
BI~IG NA~IFSH PUSAD
Car, J. hl. T~L~NI ( &tern& )
SHRI R~nt~n~n SIKQH
SHI:l B. D. AWUJA ( z'i~tCmatf?)
PR~F G. 5. RAXASW.WY
DR N. S. BHAL ( Ahmote)
SHRI T.N.S. RAO
Representing
Central Public Works Department
Engineer-in-Chiefs Branch, Army Headquarters
National Buildings Organization, New Delhi
Stru~~r~e~ineering Research Centre ( CSIR ),
Gammon India Ltd, Bombay
SRRI S. R. PINIIEIRO (Alternate)
REPRESENTATIVE M. N. Dastur & Co ( Private ) Limited, Calcutta
REPRESENTATIVE The India Cement Ltd, Madras
Snnr K. G. SAl.VI Hindustan Housing Factory, New Delhi
SHRI C. L. Knsrmva~ ( .&rnafe )
SECRET.UW
Central Board of Irrigation & Power, New Delhi
SHRI L.SWAROOp
Dalmia Cement ( Bharat ) Ltd, New Delhi
SHTU A. V. RAMANA ( Alfcrnafe)
.
DRH. C. VISVFSVARAYA Cement Research Institute of India, New Delhi
Snm R. NACARAJ~N, Director General, IS1 ( Ex-o~cio Member )
Director (Civ Engg }
Srcrcfarics
SHRI R. NA~ARAJAN
Director ( Civ Engg ), ISI
SIX& Y. R. TANEJA
Deputy Director ( Civ Engg ), ISI
Precast Concrete Products Subcohmittee, BDC 2 : 9
Convenn
SHRI M.A. -h'fEHTA
Members
The Concrete Association of India, Bombay
SHRI E. T. AXTIA ( Alternate to
Shri M. A. Mehta )
SHRI A.P. Baocrir
Sahu Cement Service, New Delhi
srrar A. K. BISWAS ( Alfernafe )
suu1H.B. CIIATTERJEE
Hindustan Block Manufacturing Co Ltd, Panihati
(Chfinucd on page 22 !
2





IS : 6042 - 1969
I ndian Standard
CODE OF PRACTICE FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF LIGHT-WEIGHT
CONCRETE BLOCK MASONRY
0. FOREWORD
0.1 This Indian Standard was adopted by the Indian Standards Institution
on 24 December 1969, after the draft finalized by the Cement and Concrete
Sectional Committee had been approved by the Civil Engineering
Division Council.
0.2 Light-weight concrete block is an important addition to the types of
masonry units available to the builder.
The specification for load bearing
light-weight concrete blocks are given in IS : 3590-1966*. With the
development of light-weight aggregates from industrial wastes, the light-
weight concrete blocks made therefrom will be increasingly used for
masonry York in India.
Some of the advantages of light-weight concrete
block construction are greater speed of execution, better thermal insulation
and saving in foundation work, compared to conventional brick masonry.
This code is intended to offer guidance to help the builders in correct use
of light-weight concrete blocks for masonry construction.
0.3 In the formulation of this standard due weightage has been given to
international co-ordination among the standards and practices prevailing
in different countries in addition to relating it to the practices in ,the field
in this country.
0.4 This standard is one of a series of Indian Standards on precast
concrete products. Other standards published so far in the series are:
IS : 2 185- 1967 Hollow cement concrete blocks (Jirst revision )
IS : 3590-1966 Load bearing light-weight concrete blocks
IS : 4996-1968 Reinforced concrete fence posts
0.5 For the purpose of deciding whether a particular requirement of this
standard is complied with, the final value, observed or calculated expressing
the result of a test or analysis, shall be rounded off in accordance with
IS : 2-1960t. The number of significant places retained in the rounded
off value should be the same as that of the specified value in this
standard.
*Specification for load bearing lightweight concrete blocks.
TRuIes for rounding off numerical values ( w&d ).
3





IS : 6042 - 1969
1. SCOPE
1.1 This standard covers the construction of walls and partitions with
precast light-weight concrete solid blocks conforming to IS : 3590-1966*
and lime cement cinder blocks conforming to IS: 3115-19657.
2. TERMINOLOGY
2.0 For the purpose of this standard, the following definitions shall apply.
2.1 Block-A precast concrete masonry unit either solid or hollow.
2.1.1 Light-weight Concrete Blocks - Solid or hollow concrete blocks,
density of which does not exceed 1000 kg/ m3 conforming to IS: 3590-
1966*.
2.1.2 Lime-Cement (inder Solid Blocks - Precast solid blocks made from
lime, Portland cement and cinder, conforming to IS : 3115-1965t.
2.2 Bond Beam
2.2.1 Structural Bond Beam - A reinforced concrete beam built integrally
with a masonry wall as a structural member and designed in accordance
with structural engineering practice, primarily to transmit lateral loading
on the wall to other connecting structural elements.
2.2.2 flominal Bond Beam -A beam made of reinforced concrete or of
U-shaped precast concrete elements subsequently filled solid with reinforc-
ed concrete, built integrally with a masonry wall, but intended only as a
continuous tension member.
2.3 Drying Shrinkage-The difference between the length of a speci-
men cut from a block, which has been matured and subsequently saturated
and its length when dried to constant length. It is usually expressed as a
percentage of the dry length.
2.4 Moisture Movement-The difference in length of a specimen then
dried to constant length and that when subsequently saturated with water.
It is usually expressed as a percentage of the dry length.
3. NECESSARY INFORMATION
3.1 For efficient planning, design and execution of the work, detailed
information with regard to the following shall be furnished to those
responsible for the work:
a) Layout plans showing the walls, position of doors, windows and
other openings, stairs and columns, etc;
*Specification for load bearing light-weight concrete blocks.
tspecification for lime-cement cinder solid blocks.
4





b)
C)
4
IS I 6042 - 1969
Detailed dimensions of the structure with details of sections;
Details of architectural features, mouldings and other special work,
such as fittings attached to or embedded in the masonry; and
Details of electrical conduits sanitary and water supply pipes, air-
condition ducts, etc, to be embedded in the wall.
4. PROGRAMMING OF WORK
4.1 In preparing a time schedule, the work shall be considered in relation
to other works and so ordered that the work of the various tradesmen do
inot interfere with each other.
4.2 Arrangements shall be made for the following items:
4
b)
cl
4
The timing of the erection of adjacent structural work shall corres-
pond to the erection of the walls and partitions where the
various operations are inter-dependent;
The installation of conduits and services within, on the tace of or
through the walls and partitions;
The application of finishes to adjacent walls, floors and ceilings
which may be required before the application of finishes to the
walls and partitions concerned; and
Time intervals as and when necessary, to alloiv parts of the work
and finishes to dry out and mature before the commencement of
subsequent operation.
4.3 The time schedule shall include dates for:
a) The supply of drawings and specifications;
b) The delivery of materials, masonry units and accessories; and
c) The commencement and completion of the various operations in-
volved in the construction and finish of the walls and partitions.
4.4 Internal walls and partitions of non-load-bearing and bonded or tied
to the flanking frame work shall preferably be erected concurrently with it
but where it is not practicable to do so, they may be erected afterwards,
: the necessary provision for their support and for bonding or tying their
ends to the main structure being made at the appropriate time.
5. MATERIALS
5.1 Cement-Cement shall conform to IS:269-1967* or IS: 455-19677
or IS : 1489- \ 967$.
*Specification for ordinary, rapid hardening and low heat portland cement ( sword
rrvision ) .
tSpecification for portland blast furnace slag cement ( sucond reuision ).
$Specification for Portland-pozzolana cement (Jirst reuirion ).
5





IS : 6042 - 1969
5.2 Lime - Lime shall conform to IS : 712-I 964*.
The lime shall be of
class C, unless otherwise specified.
All lime other than dry hydrated lime
shall be fully slaked in accordance with IS : 1635-1960t.
5.8 Water -Water shall be clean and free from injurious amounts of
deleterious materials and of a quality fit for drinking purposes.
5.4 Sand - Sand shall generally conform to the requirement of IS : 383-
1963: except for particle size grading which shall be specified in 5.4.1.
5.4.1 The sand for mortar shall generally have particle size gradings as
specified in IS: 2116-1965s.
5.5 Flyash - Flyash shall conform to IS : 3812( Part I )-1960[/ .

5.6 Burnt Clay Pozzolana- Burnt clay pozeolana shall conform to
IS: 1344-19685.
6. MORTAR
6.1 Cement lime sand mortar, cement sand mortar or lime pozzolana sand
mortar generally conforming to IS : 2250-1965** or lime sand mortar or lime
pozzolana sand mortar generally conforming to IS: 1625-1962tt shall
be used.
6.2 Light-weight concrete blocks shall be embedded with a mortar, the
strength of which is relatively lower than that of the mix used for making
blocks in order to avoid the formation of cracks. A 1 : 2 : 9 cement, lime,
sand mortar may generally be used for normal work, but where either the
intensity of load 1s high or wall is exposed to severe condition 1 : 1 : 6
mortar shall be used. If good quality lime is not available 1 : 6 cement
sand mortar may be used.
6.3 All mortar shall be prepared in accordance with IS : 2250-1965**
NOTE- All mortar when mixed shall halye a slump of 75 mm when tested in
accordance with the methcd described in IS : 1199-1959$$*
*Specification for building limes ( wised ).
tCo& of practice for field slakmg oflime and preparation of putty,
Ispecification for coarse and fine aggregates
from natural sources for concrete
( ,euised ).
FSpecifiration for sand for masonry mortars.
j\ Spec$cation for flyash: Part I For use as pozzolana.
qspecification for burnt clay pozzolana (jrst revision 1.
**Co& of practice for preparation and use of masonry mortars.
ftcode of practice for preparation.and use of lime mortar in buildings.
f$Methods of sampling and anal)sl~ of concrete.
Ii





i
IS : 6042 - 1969
7. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
7.1 Choice of Type of Wall-The type of wall for different situations
of use of light-weight concrete block masonry shall be as given below:
a) External and internal load bearing walls shall be of load bearing
lightweight concrete. blocks of appropriate thickness. Expos-
ed walls shall be rendered externally with composite mortar in
accordance with 11.1.
b) In special cases where high thermal insulation is required, .cavity
walls having inner leaf of lightweight concrete blocks and the outer
leaf of dense concrete block may be used. Each leaf of the cavity
wall shall not be less than 100 mm thick. To ensure adequate
impermeability for the walls the exterior surface of external walls
shall be plastered with composite mortar in accordance with 11.1.
7.1.1 From considerations of durability lightweight concrete blocks shall
not be used below damp-proof course.
7.2 Strength and Stability
7.2.1 Thickned of Walls
7.2.1.1 The minimum nominal thickness of external walls in framed
construction shall preferably be not less than 200 mm. However, depend-
ing upon the local conditions and the desired effect of thermal transmis-
sion and sound reduction, 100 mm thick walls may be used provided they
are suitably braced and reinforced by lateral or vertical supports.
7.2.1.2 The minimum nominal thickness of non-load bearing internal
partitions shall be 100 mm.
7.2.2 Parapet Walls-Parapet walls shall be designed to withstano
lateral pressure specified in IS : 875 1964*.
7.2.2.1 Unless adequately braced at intervals not exceeding three
metres, the height of the wall shall be limited to five times its thickness in
case of parapet walls.
7.2.3 Lateral Supports
7.2.3.1 Lightweight concrete block masonry walls shall be provided
with horizontal or vertical lateral supports at right angles to the faces of
the wall.
Lateral supports may be obtained by cross-walls, pilasters,
sealed bonds, or butteresses where the limiting distance will be measured
horizontally, and by floors and roofs where the limiting distance will be
measured vertically.
*Code of practice for structural safety of buildings: Loading standards ( revtied).





IS : 6042 - 1969
7.2.3.2 The limiting horizontal distance for load bearing wall shall be
24 times the nominal thickness of the wall, while its limiting vertical dis-
tance shall be 18 times the nominal thickness of the walls; the maximum
storey height permitted for a 200 mm thick wall shall, therefore, be 3.6 m.
7.2.3.3 The limiting horizontal or vertical dimension of a partition
wall shall not be more than 36 times the thickness of wall.
7.3 Bond Beams and Studs Used as Structura! Members
7.3.1 Reinforced concrete bond beams shall be used in concrete masonry
construction to meet the requirements of unusual stress conditions.
These
arise:
a)
b)
c)
d)
In
in buildings in earthquake-prone regions,
in buildings in areas where severe wind storms occur,
in buildings in areas where unfavourable soil movements and soil
subsidence occur, and
in buildings where walls are subject to excessive vibration or to
very heavy loads.
all such cases it is necessary to provide more than ordinary stability
,. . .
for all types ot masonry walls.
7.3.2 Bond beams may be normal reinforced concrete beams built
integrally with block masonry, or they may be built with special U-shaped
lintel blocks which are strung together, reinforcing steel placed in the cores,
and the cores filled solid with concrete. The reinforcement shall satisfy
structural requirements, but in no case it should be less than two 12 mm
diameter steel bars. The beams are always discontinuous at expansion
joints, but the joints should be designed to transfer lateral forces along
the wall.
7.3.3 Bond beam shall be placed:
a) at floor level,
b) at the head of all door and window openings (in which case they
serve as lintels over them),
c) below the sill in all openings, and
d) at plinth level.
7.3.4 Apart from continuously reinforced bond beams, concrete masonry
walls under the conditions outlined in 7.3.1 may also be reinforced verti-
cally be reinforced concrete studs at corners, at wall openings, and at
regular intervals between wall openings. The vertical alignment of the
hollow cores in concrete masonry units facilitates the construction of such
8
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IS : 6042 - 1969
vertical studs. The studs shall be tied in with the bond beams. The
quantity of the reinforcement for studs shall be according to the structural
requirements.
7.3.5 The non-structural use of bond beams for the purpose of providing
a continuous tension member to resist excessive tensile stresses is referred
to in 7.5.4.
7.4 Modular Co-ordination
7.4.1 Lightweight concrete block walls shall preferably be planned on
the basis of modular co-ordination with a view to making the maximum
use of full and half length units.
7.4.2 The cutting of units at the site shall be restricted to the minimum.
Attention shall be paid to modular co-ordination while fixing the overall
length and height of the wall, width and height of door, window and other
openings; and wall dimensions between doors, windows and corners.
All
horizontal and vertical dimensions shall be multiples of half length and
full height units respectively.
7.5 Avoidance of Crack Formation
7.5.1 The major causes of cracks in the structure of lightweight concrete
block wall or partitions and measures for their prevention are described
in 7.5.2 to 7.5.3.
7.5.2 Structural Mouements-Cracks may occur due to alterations in
length, curvature or orientation of the structural members enclosing a wall
or partition due to load settlement, thermal expansion or changes in
moisture content. The precautions to be taken for prevention shall be as
described in 7i5.2.1 to 7.5.2.4.
7.5.2.1 In the case of framed structures, erection of partitions and
panel walls shall be delayed wherever possible until the frame has taken
UP9
as much as possible, any deformation occuring due to structural
movements.
7.5.2.2 For floor deformation and movement -The floor upon which a
partition is built may deflect under load brought upon it after the partition
is built.
Where such deflections tend to create non-continuous bearing,
the partition shall be strong enough to span between the points of least
floor deflection or shall be capable of adapting itself to the altered condi-
tions of support without cracking. This may be achieved by embedding
6 mm diameter bars at every 400 mm height.
7.5.2.3 Ceiling dejlection or mowment - A ceiling above a partition wall
may deflect under loads applied after its erection: or through thermal or
other movements.
The partition wall shall be separated from the ceiling
9





IS : 6042 - 1969
by a gap, or by a layer of resilient material, to avoid cracking as a result
of such deflection. Where this canno; be done as in the case of plastered
finishes, the risk of cracking may be diminished by forming a cut between
the ceiling plaster and the wall plaster.
7.5.2.4 Dejection or morlement of structural abutments-Walls, columns or
other structural elements against which a wall or partition abuts may
deflect or move because of load, settlement, shrinkage or thermal effects.
In order to avoid cracking of walls or partitions as a result of such
movements, a slip joint shall be provided where possible, preferably packed
with a resilient material.
7.5.3 Control of Wall Mocement Accompanying Temperature and Moisture
Changes- Cracking in concrete masonry walls is often due to tensile stresses
which develop when wall movements accompanying temperature and
moisture change are restrained by other elements of the building, or when
concrete masonry places restraint on the movement of adjoining elements.
7.5.3.1 There are three methods of controlling cracking in concrete
masonry structures:
a>
1))
c)
In
specifying a limit on the moisture content of masonry units at the
time of delivery and construction ( 11.1.5.1 of IS: 3590-1966* ),
incorporating steel reinforcement either in the form of bond beams
or horizontal joint reinforcement, .and
providing control joints to accommodate the movement.
all concrete masonry construction it is essential to employ only
moisture controlled units. Their use, combined with the provision of
control joints, is generally adequate to prevent cracking in concrete masonry
walls.
However, bond beams or joint reinforcement, or both in different
locations as considered suitable, may also be used in addition to the
above.
7.5.4 Bond Beams- Bond beams, the use of which as structural members
has been referred to in 7.3, also serve as a means of crack control. Their
value for this purpose is due to the increased strength and stiffness they
provide to a masonry wall They shall be built in the same manner as
the structural bond beams, with a minimum reinforcement of two 12 mm
diameter steel bars. AS a means of crack control, the area of influence
of a bond beam shall normally be presumed to extend 600 mm above and
below its location in the wall. In walls without openings they shall be
spaced 1200 mm apart and may be of any length up to a maximum of 18 m
(see Table 1 ).
*Specification for load bearing lightweight concrete blocks.
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IS : 6042- 1969
TABLE 1 RECOMMENDED LENGTH TO HEIGHT RATIO FOR
LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE BLOCK MASONRY WALLS
(Clauses 7.5.4, 7.5.5.2, 7.5.5.3 and 7.5.6)
St WALL PANEL
NO.
(1)
(2)
i)
Length L of the panel
I irrespective of the
height H of the panel ),
A4ax
ii) Ratio G , Max
VE~~TICAL SPACING OF JOINT REINBORCEMENT
r-------
600 mm
h----_--_--~
400 mm 200 mm
(3)
(4) (5)
12.5 m 15 m 18 m
2.5 3 4
NOTE I -When bond beams spaced 1 200 mm vertically are employed in place of
joint reinforcement, control joints may be spaced at 18 m maximum.
NOTE 2 -Where reinforcement has not been provided, the length of the panel shall
not exceed 12 m and the ratio of L/H shall not exceed 2.
7.5.4.1 Bond beams shall be discontinuous at controi joints, but
practice here varies depending upon structural requirements. Dummy
joints shall be formed when a bond beam is continuous at a control
joint.
7.5.5 Joint Reinforcement-Horizontal joint reinforcement serves much
the same purpose in crack control as bond beams--it increases the tensile
resistance to cracking. Due to the generally closer spacing adopted, joint
steel may he more effective in crack control than bond beams.
7.5.5.1 Joint reinforcement shall be fabricated from galvanized steel
\ vire conforming to IS : 280-1962* and shall consist of two or more smooth
or deformed longitudinal wires of 4 mm dia or Iarger, weld connected
with 2.8 mm dia or larger cross wires. The out-to-out spacing of the
longitudinal wires shall be 40 mm less than the width of the masonry
units.
The distance between the welded contacts of the cross wires with
each longitudinal wire shall not exceed 150 mm for smooth wires and
400 mm for deformed wires. The joint reinforcement shall be available in
flat sections 3 to 6 m in length. Where a splice is necessary, the joint
reinforcement shall be lapped. At corners, special corner pieces shall be
used. The laps shall be of sufficient length to deveIop the tensile strength
ofthe longitudinal reinforcement, or 300 mm, whichever dimension is the
greater.
+spccifc.rtll,n for mild steel wire for general engineering purposes ; recid ).
II





IS:6042-1969
7.5.5.2 The reinforcement shall he embedded in horizontal joints at
intervals of 200, 400 and 600 mm depending upon panel length L (see
Note), height H, and the number and type of wall openings. Table 1
gives the L/H ratios recommended for masonry walls constructed with
moisture-controlled units and containing different amounts of joint rein-
forcement. The ratios are approximate and provide an adequate margin
of safety against cracking when employed in walls without openings.
NOTE- A panel is a wall portion in one plane which lies between (1) wall ends,
(2) control joints, or (3) a control joint and a wall end.
7.5.5.3 .Joint reinforcement shall be used in conjunction with mortar
not weaker than 1 : 1 : 6 cement, lime, sand mix. In walls exposed to the
action of weather, the reinforcement shall have a mortar cover of not less
than 15 mm. The following points in the location of joint reinforcement
shall be noted:
a) Place the joint reinforcement in the first and second bed joints
immediately above and below wall openings. It shall not extend
less than 600 mm beyond the opening, or to the end of the panel,
whichever is the smaller;
b) Place joint reinforcement in the two or three courses immediately
below the top of the wall;
c) Joint reinforcement shall not be located closer to a bond beam
than 600 mm;
d) Joint reinforcement shall be interrupted at control joints; and
e) Joint reinforcement shall not be required where the ratio L/H is
not more than given in Note 2 in Table 1.
7.5.6 Control Joints-These are employed to reduce restraint by accom-
modating movement of the masonry wall, or movement of structural
elements adjacent to the wall, and thus to control cracking. They are, in
fact, vertical separations built into the wall at locations where cracking is
likely due to excessive horizontal stresses. The spacing along the wall
length depends upon:
a) the expected movenlents of the wall and other elements;
b) the resistance of the wall to horizontal tensile stresses; and
c) the extent and location in the wall of doors, windows, recesses,
chases and other causes of stress concentration.
Table 1 gives ratio between the panel length and wall height, L/H,
recommended for walls without openings constructed with moisture-
controlled units ( see Note ).
NOTE-A panel is a wall element in one plane which lies between (aj wall ends,
(b) control joints, or (~1 a cozltrol joint and a wall elld.





IS : 6042 -1969
7.5.6.1 The common methods of constructing control joints are
illustrated in Fig. 1 and 2. The joints permit free horizontal movement,
but they shall have sufficient shear and flexural strength to resist lateral
loads. Particular care shall be taken to make the joints weather tight when
located in exterior walls.
7.5.6.2 Apart from spaced control joints in long walls, control joints
shall be placed:
a) at changes in wall height or thickness;
b) at construction joints in foundations, floors, and roof;
c) at recesses and chases;
d) at abutments of walls and columns;
e) at return angles in L-, T- and U-shaped structures; and
f) at one or both sides of wall openings (generally a control joint is
placed at one side of an opening less than 2 m in width and at both
jambs of openings over 2 m wide).
8. STORAGE AND HANDLING OF MATERIALS
8.1 The blocks shall be stored in such a way as to avoid any contact with
moisture on the site. They shall be stock piled on planks or other supports
free from contact with the ground and covered to protect against wetting.
8.2 Cement, lime aggregates and other masonry materials shall be stored
and hauled as laid down in the relevant Indian Standards.
9. PREPARATORY WORK
9.1 Wetting of Blocks-The blocks need not be wetted before or during
laying in the walls. In case the climatic conditions so require, the top and
the sides of the blocks may only be slightly moistened so as to prevent
absorption of water from the mortar and ensure the development of the
required bond with the mortar.
lo. LAYING COhCRETE BLOCK MASONRY IN
SUPERSTRUCTURE
10.1 Use of Mortar in Masonry
10.1.1 Lightweight concrete block masonry in superstructure shall be
laid either in 1 : 2: 9 or 1 : 1 : 6 cement-lime, sand mortar as explained
in 6.1. If good quality lime is not available, 1 : 6 cement sand mortar may
be used.
13





L!3:6042-1969
ALTERNATE
COURSES/\_
ON EXPOSED FACE OF WALL.
RAKE OUT MORTAR TO 20 mm
AND FILL WITH CAULKING
COMPOUND---,
LC~NTR~L
_d-
CAULKING COMPOUND
JOINT
OR MORTAR ON
METHOD A
UNEXPOSED WALL
ON EXPOSED FACE OF WALL.RAKE
ALTERNATE
OUT MORTAR TO 20 mm ANC FILL
WITH CAULKING COMPOU
5 mm WIRES GREASE
ULKING COMPOUND
AND LAID IN EVERY
OR MORTAR ON
OTHER COURSE
UNEXPOSED WALL
METHOD B
JAMB BLOCK
ON EXPOSED FACE OF W
OUT MORTAR TO 20 mm
WITH CAULKING C OMP
mm WIRES GREASED
ULKING COMPOUNE
AND LAID IN EVERY
OR MORTAR ON
OTHER COURSE
UNEXPOSED WALL
METHOD C
FIG. 1 CONTROLJOINTS IN CONCRETE BLOCK MASONRY CONSTRUCTION
14





18:6042-1969
EXPOSED FACE OF WALL,f?AKE
TO 20 mm AN0 FILL
CAULKING COMPOUND
,!
5 mm WIRES BENT IN
FORM OF U, GREASED
AND LAID IN EVERY
OTHER COURSE
L CAULKING COMPOUND
OR MORTAR .ON
UNEXPOSED WALL
ALTERNATE COURSES
METHOD A
ON EXPOSED FACE OF WALL,RAKE
WITH CAULKING COMPOUND
5 mm WIRES BENT IN
FORM OF U, GREASED
i
AND LAID IN EVERY
OTHER COURSE
CAULKING COMPOUNO
OR MORTAR ON
UNEXPOSED WALL
METHOD 6
FIG. 2 PIL.ASTERS WITH CONTROL JOINTS IN CONCRETE
BLOCK MASONRY CONSTRUCTION - Continued
15





18:6042-1969
ON EXPOSED FACE Of WALL,RAKE
OUT MORTAR TO 20,mm AND FILL
A
WITH CAULKING COMPOUND
/TALlERNATE COURSES
mm WIRES GREASED hAULKING COMPOUND
AND LAID IN EVERY OR MORTAR ON
OTHER COURSE
UNEXPOSED WALL
METHOD C
FACE OF WALL,RAKE
UT MORTAR TO 20 mm AND FILL
WITH CAULKING COMPOUND
NATk COURSES
I/
5 mm WIRES GREASED
L
CAULKING COMPOUfdD
AND &AID IN EVERY
OR MORTAR ON
OTHER COURSE
UNEXPOSED WALL
METHOD D
FIG. 2 PILASTERS WITH CONTROL JOINTS IN CONCRETE
BLOCK MASONRY CONSTRUCTION - Codnuel
16





IS: 6042-1969
ON EXPOSED FACE 6F WALL,RAKE
OUT MORTAR TO 2Q mm AND FILL
WITH CAULKING CO,MPOUND
-CAULKING COMPOUND DR
MORTAR ON UNEXPOSED WALL
METHOD E
ON EXPOSED FACE OF WALL,RAKE
OUl MORTAR TO 20 mm AND FILL
WITH CAULKING COMPOUND
fiLTERNATE COURSES
CAULKING COMPOUND
OR MORTAR ON
UNEXPOSEb WALL
METHOD F
FIG. 2 PILASTERS WITH CONTROLJO~ IN CONCRETE
BLOCK MASONRY CONSTRUCTION
17
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-





IS : 6842 - 1969
10.1.2 Mortar shall not be spread so much ahead of the actual laying of
the units that it tends to stiffen and lose its plasticity, thereby resulting in
poor bond. For most of the work, the joints, both horizontal and vertical,
shall be 10 mm thick. Except in the case of extruded joint construction
described in 10.2.3, the mortar joints shall be struck off flush with wall
surface and when the mortar has started stiffening, it shall be compressed
with a rounded or U-shaped tool. This compaction is important, since
mortar, while hardening, has a tendency to shrink slightly and thus pull
away from the edges of the block. The mortar shall be pressed against the
units with a jointing tool after the mortar has stiffened to effect intimate
contact between the mortar and the masonry unit and obtain a weather-
tight joint.
IO.2 Operations for Laying Block Masonry
10.2.1 First Course-The first course of concrete block masonry shall be
laid with great care, making sure that it is properly aligned, levelled and
plumbed, as this may assist the mason in laying succeeding courses to
obtain a straight and truly vertical wall.
10.2.1.1 Before laying the first course, the alignment of the wall shall
be marked on the damp-proof course. The blocks for this course shall
first be laid dry, that is without mortar along a string stretched between
properly located corners of the wall in order to determine the correct posi-
tion of the blocks including those of the cross walls jointing it and also adjust
their spacing. When the blocks are set in proper position, the two corner
blocks shall be removed, a mortar bed spread and these blocks laid back in
. place truly level and plumb. The string shall then be stretched tightly
along the faces of the two corner blocks and the faces of the intermediate ones
adjusted to coincide with the line. Thereafter, each block shall be removed
and relaid over a bed of mortar. After every three or four blocks have
been laid, their correct alignment level and verticality shall be carefully
checked.
10.2.2 The construction of walls may be started either at the corners
first or started from one end proceeding in the other direction. If the
corners of the wall are built first, they shall be built four or five courses
higher than the centre of the wall. As each course is laid at the corner,
it shall be checked for alignment and level and for being plumb.
Each
block shall be carefully checked with a level or straight edge to make cer-
tain that the faces of the block are all in the same plane, This precaution
is necessary to ensure truly straight and vertical walls.
10.2.2.1 The use of a storey-rod or course pole which is simply a
board with markings 200 mm apart, provides an accurate method of find-
ing the top of the masonry for each course. Each course, in building the
corners, shall be stepped back by a half-block and the horizontal spacing
18
1





IS : 6042 - 1969
of the block shall be checked by placing a masons level diagonally across
the corners of the block.
10.2.3 When filling in the wall between the corners, a masons line shall
be stretched from corner to corner for each course and the top outside edge
of each block shall be laid to this line.
The manner of handling or gripp-
ing the block shall be such as to position the block properly with minimum
adjustment.
10.2.3.1 To assure satisfactory bond, mortar shall not be spread too
far ahead of actual laying of the block as it will stiffen and lose its plasti-
city. As each block is laid, excess mortar extruding from the joints shall
be cut off with the trowel and thrown back on the mortar board to be
reworked into the fresh mortar. If the work is progressing rapidly, the
extruded mortar cut from the joints may be applied to the vertical face
shells of the blocks just laid. If there be any delay long enough for the
m&tar to stiffen on the block, the mortar shall be removed to the mortar
board and reworked. Dead mortar that has been picked up from the
scaffold or from the floor shall not be used.
10.2.4 Closure Block-When installing the closure block, all edges of
the opening and all four edges of the closure block shall be buttered with
mortar. The closure block shall be carefully lowered into place. If any
mortar falls leaving an open joint, the closure block shall be removed,
fresh mortar applied and the operation repeated.
10.3 Provisions for Doors and Window Frames-Mild steel bar
holdfasrs should be so fastened to the door or window frames that these
occur at block course level.
10.4 Provisions for Lintels-Lintels may be either precast or cast in
situ with appropriate reinforcement. Where openings occur close to one
another, a continuous lintel shall be provided.
10.5 Provision for Roof
10.5.1 The top of the roof course shall be finished smooth with a thin
layer of 1 : 3 cement mortar and covered with a coat of crude oil or craft or
oil paper to ensure free movement of the roof.
10.5.2 Where the roof slab projects beyond the external wall face, it
shall be provided with a drip.
10.6 Intersecting Walls -All walls wherever they meet or intersect shall
be bonded or tied securely in accordance with 10.6.1 and 10.6.2.
10.6.1 Bearing IValfs-When two bearing walls meet or intersect and
the courses are to be laid up at the same time, a true masonry bond be-
tween at least 50 percent of the units at the intersection is necessary.
19





IS I 6642 - 1969
When such intersecting bearing walls are laid up separately, pockets with
200 mm maximum vertical spacings shall be left in the first wall laid. The
corresponding course of the second wall shall be built into these
pockets.
10.6.2 Non-load Bearing Walls - Meeting or intersecting non-load bearing
walls shall be bonded by either of the two methods recommended for
bearing walls or provided with adequate lateral SUppOrtS.
10.6.3 The side walls of long buildings shall be stiffened at regular inter-
vals with ~i1aster.s or by sealed bonds which are about twice the thickness
of the wall.
11. RENDERING AND OTHER FINISHES
11.1 External Renderings - Lightweight concrete blocks are almost
invariably not impervious and will become damp when exposed to rain.
The exterior surface of all lightweight concrete blocks shall, therefore, be
made water-proof by treating the walls with different types of renderings
as explained in 11.1.1 to 11.1.4 depending upon the intensity of rainfall,
nature of exposure of other seasons. Some other points that should be
considered are given below:
4
b)
c>
4
Renderings shall not be applied to the walls when these are wet
or in monsoon. The walls shall be treated only after they are
dried.
Satisfactory performance of any rendering depends entirely on the
efficiency of the bond developed between the rendering and the *
wall surface. Extreme care shall, therefore, be taken to ensure
effective bond with the wall by preparing the surface, cleaning the
surface of all loose particles and dust, and lightly moistening it
with water just prior to applying the rendering to prevent absorp-
tion of water from it.
The plaster finishes shall be applied in accordance with
IS:2402-1963*.
The sand used for the plaster finish shall be graded from 3 mm
downwards. The plaster shall not be finished smooth, but provid
ed with a coarse finished by means of a wooden float.
11.1.1 In localities where rainfall is heavy or the walls are exposed to
sea weather, concrete biock masonry shali be rendered with two coats of
plaster. First coat ( backing coat) shall be of 15 mm thickness of 1 : 1 : 6
cement lime sand mortar or 1 : 6 cement sand mortar. Second coat
(finishing coat) shall be of 5 to 10 mm thickness of 1 : 1 : 6 to 1 : 2 :9
cement lime sand mortar.
*Code of practice few external rendered finishes.
2cl





IS : 6042 - 1969
11.1.2 In moderate rainfall areas, concrete block masonry shall be
rendered with at least one coat of 10 to 15 mm thickness of 1 : 1 : 6 cement
lime sand mortar (or 1 : 6 cement sand mortar) or two coats of cement
paint may be applied directly on concrete block masonry to provide a
reasonably impervious surface to withstand rain.
11.1.3 In areas of scarce rainfall, where it is desired from aesthetic
considerations, the exterior surface of concrete block masonry need only be
pointed with 1 : 1 : 6 cement lime sand mortar.
11.1.4 Where for architectural or other reasons it is necessary to have the
concrete block surface exposed, the walls shall either be built with block
having richer facing mixture or treated with two coats of approved quality
of cement based paint. In either case the walls in heavy or moderate
rainfall areas shall be pointed with 1: 3 cement mcrtar.
11.2 Internal Renderings- As machine made concrete blocks are of
uniform size, walls built with them provide an even surface. Where it is
desired to have the block surface exposed, the walls may only be flush
pointed and painted with an approved quality of cement paint, emulsion
paint or chlorinated rubber paint. Oil based paints are liable to be
attacked by alkali from the blocks and mortar. Otherwise the interior
surface on walls shall be plastered with one coat of 6 to 12 mm thickness
of:1 : 2 : 9 cement lime sand mortar. Where a very smooth finish is
a second coat of 2 to 3 mm thickness of lime finish may be applied.
desired,
12. MAINTENANCE
12.1 The exposed walls shall be inspected closely every year before
monsoons, and cracks, if any, shall be sealed properly with a cement
grout and painted with two coats of cement paints.





IS : 6042 - 1969
( Continued from page 2 )
Members Representing
DEPUTY DIRECTOR STANDARDS Research, Designs and Standards Organization,
(B&S)
Lucknow
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR STAND-
ARDS ( M/C ) ( Ahnate)
DIRECTOR ( CSM )
Central Water & Power Commission, New Delhi
SHRI M. K. GUPTA Himalayan Tiles & Marble Pvt Ltd, Bombay
SHRI G. C. MATHUR National Buildings Organization, New Delhi
SARI S. D. JOSHI ( Alternate)
SHRI RADHEY SHIAM Engineer-in-Chiefs Branch, Army Headquarters
SHRI S. RAMACHANDRAN Neyveli Lignite Corporation Ltd, Neyveli
SHRI V. A. ARTHANOOR ( Al&male )
SHRI G. B. SINQH Hindustan Housing Factory Ltd, New Delhi
&RI C. N. SRINIVASAN M/s C. R. Narayana Rao, Madras
SHRI C. N. RACHAVENDRAN (Alternate)
SURVEYOR OF WORKS I
( SSW, ND2 )
Central Public Works Department, New Delhi
SHRI C. A. TANEJA Central Building Research Institute ( CSIR ),
Roorkee
SHRI B. K. JINDAL ( Alternate )
DR H. C. VISVESVA~AYA Cement Research Institute of India, New Delhi
22





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