The Effect of Moisture on Significant Mechanical Characteristics of Masonry

Experimental and laboratory research into residual physical and mechanical characteristics of historical masonry structures (GAČR 2008; Witzany 2008), in particular the determination of residual strength and modulus of elasticity in compression, included research oriented towards the effect of moisture and porosity on the respective characteristics of masonry units – bricks, sandstone and arenaceous marl. Partial results published in (Witzany et al. 2008) and in this paper testify to the need for further research into the effects of porosity, moisture and chemism on the development of characteristics of building materials applied on historical structures.