What materials are included in masonry?

Masonry refers specifically to the construction method that involves the use of individual units laid in mortar. The materials included in masonry are primarily traditional building materials such as brick, stone, and concrete block. Each of these materials provides durability, aesthetic appeal, and structural integrity to buildings.

Brick is made from clay or shale that is fired in a kiln, providing strength and insulation. Stone, which can be natural or manufactured, has been used for centuries due to its natural beauty and robustness. Concrete blocks, or concrete masonry units (CMUs), are made from a mixture of cement, aggregate, and water, and they are widely used due to their affordability and ease of construction.

While the other options mention various materials, they do not align with the definition of masonry. Wood and composite materials are typically used in framing and not in masonry construction. Glass and plastic also fall outside the traditional scope of masonry materials as they do not involve the same processes of laying units in mortar. The statement that only natural stones are used in construction overlooks the importance and prevalence of both manufactured materials, such as brick and concrete block, within modern masonry practice.