Bricks are rectangular blocks used primarily in the construction of walls, pavements, and other elements of buildings. They are typically made from materials such as clay, shale, or concrete. Here are some key aspects of bricks in masonry:

1. Materials:
   1. Clay Bricks: Made from natural clay, they are fired in kilns to achieve hardness and durability.
   2. Concrete Bricks: Made from a mixture of cement, sand, and aggregate, they are molded and cured to achieve strength.
   3. Fly Ash Bricks: Made using fly ash, a byproduct from burning pulverized coal in electric power generating plants, mixed with lime and gypsum.
2. Types:
   1. Common Bricks: Used for general construction and have no special surface treatment.
   2. Facing Bricks: Designed for use on visible surfaces, they have a uniform size, shape, and color.
   3. Engineering Bricks: Known for their strength and low water absorption, they are used in structural applications and environments where strength and durability are important.
   4. Fire Bricks: Made to withstand high temperatures, these are used in fireplaces, furnaces, and kilns.
3. Sizes: Bricks come in various sizes, but a standard size (modular brick) in the U.S. is:
   • 7 5/8" × 3 5/8" × 2 1/4" inches, allowing for a 3/8 inch mortar joint to make the nominal size 8" × 4" × 2 1/2" inches.
4. Properties:
   1. Durability: Resistant to weathering and wear.
   2. Strength: Capable of bearing substantial loads, especially in load-bearing walls.
   3. Thermal Insulation: Provides some degree of insulation, contributing to the thermal efficiency of buildings.
   4. Aesthetic Appeal: Available in various colors and finishes, enhancing the visual appeal of structures.
5. Uses:
   1. Walls: Both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls.
   2. Pavements: Walkways, patios, and other flat surfaces.
   3. Decorative Elements: Arches, fireplaces, and facades.

Bricks have been used for thousands of years in construction and remain a popular choice due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic qualities.