Terracotta Hollow Block Walls
Terracotta Hollow Block Walls
(OP)
Hi, I am trying to determine the bearing capacity of old 1920's terracotta hollow block walls (See attached photo). The wall is approx 8.5" wide. We are installing windows lintels which will put point loads on either side and I am concerned about crushing the block.






RE: Terracotta Hollow Block Walls
RE: Terracotta Hollow Block Walls
Note that tile masonry suffers degradation and can be almost spoiled after say 100 years on bad exposures. Your photo example seems sound yet apparently porous and hence somewhat susceptible to damage brought by water.
RE: Terracotta Hollow Block Walls
Are you concerned with the bearing capacity or the compressive strength? Unless the loads are high, the vertical steel on the sides of an opening is really for continuity since the natural distribution may govern. The vertical load is distributed on a 45 or 30 degree angle from the center of bearing. Longer lintels will spread out the load into the wall quicker.
Dick
Engineer and international traveler interested in construction techniques, problems and proper design.
RE: Terracotta Hollow Block Walls