Brick masonry arches are a common feature in architectural design that have been used for centuries. Here are the main types of brick masonry arches, each with unique characteristics and applications.
Segmental Arch
The segmental arch is a type of brick masonry arch that has a shallow curve. It is one of the most common types of arches used in residential and commercial buildings due to its simplicity and ease of construction. The shape of the segmental arch is derived from a segment of a circle, which makes it relatively easy to construct using standard-sized bricks. The shallow curve of the segmental arch provides good structural support, making it ideal for supporting light loads, such as those found in doorways and windows. Overall, the segmental arch is a simple and practical choice for builders looking for an efficient and effective way to incorporate arches into their construction projects.
Semi-Circular Arch
A semi-circular arch is a type of arch that has a shape resembling half of a circle. This arch shape has been used for centuries and can be found in many different styles of architecture, including Roman and Romanesque architecture.
The semi-circular arch is a simple yet elegant architectural element that is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. It is created by using a series of wedge-shaped blocks called voussoirs that are arranged in a semi-circular pattern. The center of the arch is called the keystone, and it is typically the last stone to be placed during construction. The keystone helps to distribute the weight of the arch evenly and provides stability to the structure.
The semi-circular arch has been used in many famous buildings throughout history, such as the Roman Colosseum and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It is a versatile architectural feature that can be used in a variety of contexts, from grand public buildings to humble homes.
Flat Arch (Jack Arch)
A flat arch, also known as a jack arch, is a type of architectural element used for support over openings like windows and doors. Unlike the semi-circular arch, which has a curved shape, the flat arch is a horizontal, straight arch. It is created by placing a series of wedge-shaped blocks, called voussoirs, horizontally across the opening, supported on either side by vertical masonry or columns. The flat arch derives its strength from the principle of the “keystone,” which is the central block in the arch that holds the other blocks in place.
Flat arches are commonly found in architecture from the classical to modern periods. They are especially common in Georgian and Victorian buildings, where they were used extensively to span the openings of large windows and doors. The jack arch can also be used in conjunction with other arch types, such as the segmental arch, to create a more complex and visually interesting design.
Pointed Arch
A pointed arch, also known as a lancet arch, is a distinctive architectural feature characterized by its pointed, triangular shape at the top of the arch. This type of arch is commonly found in Gothic architecture and is often used to create a sense of height and verticality in a building’s design.
The pointed arch is created by using wedge-shaped blocks, called voussoirs, that are tapered towards the center of the arch. The central point of the arch, also known as the apex, allows the arch to distribute weight more evenly across its supports, allowing for greater structural stability. This innovation in arch design enabled architects to create taller and more complex structures, such as the soaring spires and ribbed vaults that are characteristic of Gothic architecture.
Horseshoe Arch
A horseshoe arch is a type of arch characterized by its curved, horseshoe-like shape. This arch design was commonly used in Islamic and Moorish architecture, particularly in the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa during the medieval period.
Horseshoe arches can be found in a variety of Islamic and Moorish structures, including mosques, palaces, and fortresses. They were often used to create grand entrance ways and interior spaces, where they conveyed a sense of elegance and sophistication.
One of the defining features of the horseshoe arch is its pointed apex, which is higher than the arch’s springing points, where the arch meets its supports. This design element is thought to have been influenced by Islamic calligraphy, which often features exaggerated curves and points. The horseshoe arch is also notable for its decorative qualities, with intricate carvings and ornamental motifs often used to embellish the arch and its surroundings.
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