ASTM C1232-23

Standard Terminology for Masonry

SCOPE
1.1 This standard incorporates generic terms and generic definitions of terms specifically associated with manufactured masonry units and masonry constructed with manufactured masonry units. These generic terms and definitions are used within the standards developed by Committee C12 on Mortars and Grouts for Unit Masonry and Committee C15 on Manufactured Masonry Units.  
1.2 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of terms associated with the standards specific to clay masonry units, in particular to Specifications C32, C34, C56, C62, C126, C212, C216, C279, C410, C530, C652, C902, C1088, C1167, C1261, C1272, and C1405, and to Test Methods C67/C67M.  
1.3 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of terms associated with the standards specific to concrete masonry units in particular to Specifications C55, C73, C90, C129, C139, C744, C1319, C1372, C1491, C1623, and C1634 and to Test Methods C140/C140M, C426, and C1262/C1262M.  
1.4 This standard incorporates terms and definition of terms associated with the standards specific to autoclaved aerated concrete masonry units in particular to Practice C1692 and to Specifications C1386, C1691, and C1693.  
1.5 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of terms associated with the standards specific to clay and concrete roofing tile units in particular to Specifications C1167 and C1492 and to Test Methods C1568, C1569, and C1570.  
1.6 For terminology specific to mortar and grout, see Terminology C1180.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Dec-2023
• ICS: 01.040.91 - Construction materials and building (Vocabularies)
• ICS: 91.080.30 - Masonry
• Technical Committee: C15 - Masonry – Manufactured Masonry Units, Mortars and Grouts
• Drafting Committee: C15.08 - Terminology

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM C1232-21a - Standard Terminology for Masonry
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM C140/C140M-23 - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1088-23 - Standard Specification for Thin Veneer Brick Units Made From Clay or Shale
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1717-19 - Standard Test Methods for Conducting Strength Tests of Masonry Wall Panels
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1715/C1715M-22 - Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Water Leakage Performance of Masonry Wall Drainage Systems
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1716/C1716M-23 - Standard Specification for Compression Testing Machine Requirements for Concrete Masonry Units, Related Units, and Prisms
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1791-16(2021) - Standard Guide for Reduction of Efflorescence Potential in New Unit Pavement Systems
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C62-23 - Standard Specification for Building Brick (Solid Masonry Units Made from Clay or Shale)
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1790-21 - Standard Specification for Fly Ash Facing Brick
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1197-22 - Standard Test Method for In Situ Measurement of Masonry Deformability Properties Using the Flatjack Method
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1884-23a - Standard Specification for Manufactured Concrete Ballast Units
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C139-23 - Standard Specification for Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins and Manholes
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM E514/E514M-20 - Standard Test Method for Water Penetration and Leakage Through Masonry
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C129-23 - Standard Specification for Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1825-19 - Standard Guide for Developing Specifications for Masonry Units
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023

Overview

ASTM C1232-23: Standard Terminology for Masonry is a foundational standard developed by ASTM International to provide clear, consistent definitions for terms used in the field of masonry. The terminology covered by this standard is essential for professionals working with manufactured masonry units, including clay bricks, concrete blocks, autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), and clay or concrete roofing tiles. The standard draws from the terminology found in numerous ASTM specifications and test methods, ensuring alignment across related standards and technical documents.

ASTM C1232-23 serves as an essential reference for architects, engineers, specifiers, manufacturers, contractors, and quality control professionals involved in the design, production, and construction with masonry materials. By standardizing terminology, ASTM C1232-23 contributes to effective communication, reduces ambiguity, and supports international compliance within the built environment.

Key Topics

• Manufactured Masonry Units: Definitions for products such as clay bricks, concrete blocks, structural clay tile, and AAC units, including variations by intended use and properties.
• Core Masonry Terms: Key words like bed surface, efflorescence, nominal dimension, shells, webs, and more, as used by Committees C12 (Mortars and Grouts) and C15 (Manufactured Masonry Units).
• Material-Specific Terms: Definitions specific to clay masonry (such as body color, through-body color, flashing, and engobe), concrete masonry (e.g., absorption, lightweight units, dry-cast), AAC, and roofing tiles.
• Dimensional Criteria: Terms for actual and nominal sizing, thickness, height, length, and width, which play a critical role in design and construction.
• Performance Properties: Includes freeze-thaw resistance, permeability of paving systems, surface features, and criteria for durability classifications.
• Specialized Units and Components: Definitions for permeable paving units, segmental retaining wall units, fly ash bricks, roofing tile profiles, lugs, nail holes, and weather checks.

Applications

The terminology established by ASTM C1232-23 is integral to a wide array of practical applications in the construction industry, such as:

• Design and Specification: Facilitates accurate specification of masonry products and materials in architectural and structural documentation.
• Quality Control: Supports standardized testing procedures and ensures products meet performance and durability requirements.
• International Trade and Compliance: Promotes a common language for contracts, procurement, and regulatory documents, aiding compliance with international trade requirements (WTO TBT principles).
• Product Development and Manufacturing: Assists manufacturers in labeling, marketing, and developing new masonry units by providing industry-accepted definitions.
• Education and Training: Serves as a reference for educational programs and training materials for professionals entering the masonry field.

Related Standards

ASTM C1232-23 is closely associated with a comprehensive set of ASTM standards covering both specifications and test methods for masonry materials and construction, including but not limited to:

• Clay Masonry: ASTM C32, C34, C56, C62, C126, C216, C652, C902, C1088, C1167, and others.
• Concrete Masonry: ASTM C55, C73, C90, C129, C139, C744, C1372, C1634, and C140/C140M.
• Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC): ASTM C1386, C1691, C1692, C1693.
• Roofing Tiles: ASTM C1167, C1492, and related test methods (C1568, C1569, C1570).
• Mortar and Grout: ASTM C1180 (terminology for mortar and grout).
• Testing Methods: ASTM C67/C67M, C426, C1262/C1262M for a variety of property evaluations.

By referencing ASTM C1232-23, stakeholders ensure the consistent use of terminology as prescribed in recognized ASTM standards, leading to improved clarity in technical communication and increased confidence in the quality and performance of masonry systems.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: C1232 − 23
Standard Terminology for
Masonry
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1232; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This standard incorporates generic terms and generic 2.1 ASTM Standards:
definitions of terms specifically associated with manufactured C32 Specification for Sewer and Manhole Brick (Made
masonry units and masonry constructed with manufactured From Clay or Shale)
masonry units. These generic terms and definitions are used C34 Specification for Structural Clay Loadbearing Wall Tile
within the standards developed by Committee C12 on Mortars C55 Specification for Concrete Building Brick
and Grouts for Unit Masonry and Committee C15 on Manu- C56 Specification for Structural Clay Nonloadbearing Tile
factured Masonry Units. C62 Specification for Building Brick (Solid Masonry Units
Made from Clay or Shale)
1.2 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of
C67/C67M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick
terms associated with the standards specific to clay masonry
and Structural Clay Tile
units, in particular to Specifications C32, C34, C56, C62,
C73 Specification for Calcium Silicate Brick (Sand-Lime
C126, C212, C216, C279, C410, C530, C652, C902, C1088,
Brick)
C1167, C1261, C1272, and C1405, and to Test Methods
C90 Specification for Loadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
C67/C67M.
C126 Specification for Ceramic Glazed Structural Clay Fac-
1.3 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of
ing Tile, Facing Brick, and Solid Masonry Units
terms associated with the standards specific to concrete ma-
C129 Specification for Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry
sonry units in particular to Specifications C55, C73, C90,
Units
C129, C139, C744, C1319, C1372, C1491, C1623, and C1634
C139 Specification for Concrete Masonry Units for Con-
and to Test Methods C140/C140M, C426, and C1262/
struction of Catch Basins and Manholes
C1262M.
C140/C140M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Con-
crete Masonry Units and Related Units
1.4 This standard incorporates terms and definition of terms
C212 Specification for Structural Clay Facing Tile
associated with the standards specific to autoclaved aerated
concrete masonry units in particular to Practice C1692 and to C216 Specification for Facing Brick (Solid Masonry Units
Made from Clay or Shale)
Specifications C1386, C1691, and C1693.
C279 Specification for Chemical-Resistant Masonry Units
1.5 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of
C410 Specification for Industrial Floor Brick
terms associated with the standards specific to clay and
C426 Test Method for Linear Drying Shrinkage of Concrete
concrete roofing tile units in particular to Specifications C1167
Masonry Units
and C1492 and to Test Methods C1568, C1569, and C1570.
C530 Specification for Structural Clay Nonloadbearing
1.6 For terminology specific to mortar and grout, see
Screen Tile
Terminology C1180.
C652 Specification for Hollow Brick (Hollow Masonry
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor- Units Made From Clay or Shale)
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- C744 Specification for Prefaced Concrete and Calcium Sili-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the cate Masonry Units
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- C902 Specification for Pedestrian and Light Traffic Paving
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Brick
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. C936/C936M Specification for Solid Concrete Interlocking
Paving Units
This terminology is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on
Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
C15.08 on Terminology. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2023. Published December 2023. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1993. Last previous edition approved in 2021 as C1232 – 21a. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/C1232-23. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1232 − 23
C1088 Specification for Thin Veneer Brick Units Made face, finished, n—any surface(s) of a manufactured masonry
From Clay or Shale unit intended by the manufacturer to be exposed to view.
C1167 Specification for Clay Roof Tiles
freeze thaw resistance, n—the ability of masonry to maintain
C1180 Terminology of Mortar and Grout for Unit Masonry
integrity under the forces caused by cyclic action of freezing
C1261 Specification for Firebox Brick for Residential Fire-
and thawing in the presence of moisture.
places
C1262/C1262M Test Method for Evaluating the Freeze-
frog, n—an indentation in a bed surface of a masonry unit.
Thaw Durability of Dry-Cast Segmental Retaining Wall
DISCUSSION—Indentations not exceeding ⁄8 in. (9.5 mm) are termed
Units and Related Concrete Units
a frog, sometimes called a panel or panel frog. Indentations exceeding
C1272 Specification for Heavy Vehicular Paving Brick
⁄8 in. (9.5 mm) are termed a deep frog.
C1319 Specification for Concrete Grid Paving Units
groove, n—a channel formed on surfaces other than finished
C1372 Specification for Dry-Cast Segmental Retaining Wall
faces of manufactured masonry units for production or
Units
construction purposes.
C1386 Specification for Precast Autoclaved Aerated Con-
crete (AAC) Wall Construction Units (Withdrawn 2013)
height, n—vertical dimension of the face of a unit when the
C1405 Specification for Glazed Brick (Single Fired, Brick
unit is positioned as a stretcher.
Units)
C1491 Specification for Concrete Roof Pavers (Withdrawn length, n—horizontal dimension of the face of a unit when the
2023) unit is positioned as a stretcher.
C1492 Specification for Concrete Roof Tile
masonry, n—the type of construction made up of manufac-
C1568 Test Method for Wind Resistance of Concrete and
tured masonry units laid with mortar, grout, or other methods
Clay Roof Tiles (Mechanical Uplift Resistance Method)
of joining.
C1569 Test Method for Wind Resistance of Concrete and
Clay Roof Tiles (Wind Tunnel Method)
nominal dimension, n—dimension that is greater than the
C1570 Test Method for Wind Resistance of Concrete and
specified dimension by the specified thickness of a mortar
Clay Roof Tiles (Air Permeability Method)
joint.
C1623 Specification for Manufactured Concrete Masonry
DISCUSSION—Nominal dimension is usually expressed as a whole
Lintels number.
C1634 Specification for Concrete Facing Brick and Other
permeable unit pavement system, n—pavement with wearing
Concrete Masonry Facing Units
surface made from clay or concrete units that allows
C1691 Specification for Unreinforced Autoclaved Aerated
infiltration of water through open-graded aggregate in the
Concrete (AAC) Masonry Units
joints, cores, or other openings, to a bed, base, and subbase,
C1692 Practice for Construction and Testing of Autoclaved
or combinations thereof.
Aerated Concrete (AAC) Masonry
DISCUSSION—Permeable pavement systems are utilized to reduce
C1693 Specification for Autoclaved Aerated Concrete
stormwater runoff. Permeable pavements have wearing surfaces with
(AAC)
high initial water infiltration through open spaces filled with aggregates
to drain water into open-graded bedding and base materials. The open
3. Terminology
spaces in the wearing surface are designed to enable sufficient infiltra-
tion rates to handle runoff from designated storm types (for example, 1
3.1 Generic Definitions—The definitions apply to manufac-
year, 24 hour event).
tured masonry units and masonry constructed with manufac-
With unit pavers the open spaces can be achieved with exposed
tured masonry units. They are generic as used by ASTM
coring, a specially-shaped perimeter configuration, or wider joints, or
Committees C12 and C15.
combinations thereof. Permeable pavement systems can also be made
bed surface, n—before and during construction, the nonverti- with standard units and a laying pattern that permits sufficient water
entry.
cal surfaces of a manufactured masonry unit intended by the
manufacturer to be joined by mortar or other methods.
score, n—a channel formed for appearance purposes on the
finished faces of a manufactured masonry unit.
bed surface, n—in situ, the nonvertical surfaces of a manu-
factured masonry unit joined by mortar or other methods.
shell, n—the outer walls of a hollow masonry unit.
DISCUSSION—Shell can either be an end shell or a face shell.
cryptoflorescence, n—crystalline deposit of water-soluble
compounds in the pores of masonry.
specified dimensions, n—dimensions to which masonry units
or constructions are required to conform. Actual (measured)
efflorescence, n—crystalline deposit, usually white, of water-
dimensions may differ from the specified dimensions by
soluble compounds on the surface of masonry.
permissible variations.
face, exposed, n—masonry unit surface(s) that is exposed to
surface feature, n—a quality or condition of the face of a
view when the unit is placed in usage.
manufactured masonry unit.
DISCUSSION—Surface features include coatings, colors, textures,
relief, or combinations of these. A masonry unit may have different
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org. surface features on individual faces.
C1232 − 23
DISCUSSION—Initial rate of absorption (IRA) is a distinct property
thickness, n—that dimension designed to lie at right angles to
that offers different information from absorption. It is expressed as
the face of the wall, floor, or other assembly.
grams of water picked up in one minute by a net area of 30 in. (194
cm ).
unit, facing, n—manufactured masonry unit designed for use
Initial rate of absorption is one factor influencing the quality of bond
where one or more faces will be exposed to view when the
between brick and mortar. It is used in brick standards to recommend
unit is placed in usage, and for which the specification
construction practices for enhancing mortar to brick bonding.
includes requirements on color, finish, and other properties
affecting appearance. brick, n—a solid or hollow masonry unit of clay or shale,
usually formed into a rectangular prism, then burned or fired
unit, hollow masonry, n—unit whose net cross-sectional area
in a kiln; brick is a ceramic product.
in any plane parallel to the surface containing cores, cells, or
brick, building, n—brick for load-resisting or other purposes
deep frogs is less than 75 % of its gross cross-sectional area
measured in the same plane. where appearance properties such as texture or color are not
important (formerly called common brick); see Specification
unit, manufactured masonry, n—a manmade noncombustible
C62 and Specification C652.
building product intended to be laid by hand and joined by
brick, chemical-resistant, n—brick suitable for use in chemi-
mortar, grout, or other methods of joining.
cal environments where resistance to thermal shock may be
unit, permeable paving, n—a manufactured masonry unit for
a consideration, usually used in conjunction with chemical-
pavement applications configured to achieve a minimum
resistant mortars; see Specification C279.
percentage of open area in the wearing surface of the
brick, facing, n—brick for general purposes where appearance
pavement by coring, a specially-shaped perimeter, or larger
properties such as color, texture, and chippage are important;
spacer lugs, or combinations thereof.
see Specification C216 and Specification C652.
DISCUSSION—Permeable paving units may be specified under C902
DISCUSSION—Facing brick are produced from selected clays and are
for Pedestrian and Light Traffic Paving Brick, C936/C936M for Solid
available in typical face sizes, various colors, and in various textures.
Concrete Interlocking Paving Units, C1272 for Heavy Vehicular Paving
Brick, or C1319 for Concrete Grid Paving Units. Permeable pavement
brick, firebox, n—brick intended for use as the lining in the
systems can also be made with standard units and a laying pattern that
fireboxes of residential fireplaces; see Specification C1261.
permits sufficient water entry.
brick, floor, n—brick with physical properties related to
unit, segmental retaining wall, n—unit manufactured of
resistance to chemicals, thermal and mechanical shock, or
concrete for the construction of dry-stacked, earth retaining
absorption, or combinations of these, used as finished floor
walls.
surfaces in industrial applications; see Specification C410.
DISCUSSION—Requirements for dry-cast segmental retaining wall
DISCUSSION—Other brick are used as flooring in non-industrial
units are found in Specification C1372. Test methods for dry-cast
applications; see Specification C902. Floor brick manufactured to meet
segmental retaining wall units are found in Test Methods C140/C140M.
the requirements in Specification C410 are typically smooth and dense.
unit, solid masonry, n—unit whose net cross-sectional area in
brick, paving, n—brick made to provide the wearing surface
any plane parallel to the surface containing cores, cells, or
of highways, streets, driveways, walkways, patios, and
deep frogs is 75 % or more of its gross cross-sectional area
similar applications; see Specifications C902 and C1272.
measured in the same plane.
brick, sewer, n—low absorption, abrasive-resistant brick in-
units placed in usage, n—manufactured masonry units that
tended for use in drainage structures; see Specification C32.
have been installed in masonry.
brick, specially-shaped, n—a brick manufactured to a basic
shape of other than a rectangular prism.
3.2 Definitions Specific to Clay Masonry Units:
cells/core holes, n—continuous openings or perforations
absorption, n—weight of water picked up by a clay masonry
within extruded clay products.
unit during immersion at prescribed conditions expressed in
DISCUSSION—The extent of permissible openings is specified for each
relation to the dry weight of the unit.
product as the percentage of gross area in the normal bedding surface
DISCUSSION—Two conditions of immersion are designated in stan- plane that must be net (solid) area. Core hole is generally used for brick
dards relating to brick: 24 h in room temperature (60 to 86°F (15.5 to while cell is used for structural tile. Cells are distinguished from core
30°C)) water or 5 h in boiling water. (Different time intervals are holes by being larger in size. As an illustration, cells must be larger than
2 2 2 2
specified for structural tile and other products.) The resulting absorp- 1 in. (645 mm ) under Specification C34, and 1 ⁄2 in. (968 mm )
tions are termed cold water absorption and boiling water absorption. under Specification C652.
Absorption values are used in brick and tile standards as one factor
ceramic, adj—pertaining to products containing hydrous sili-
in classifying these products into durability grades. Absorptions are
indicators of the extent of firing during manufacture as well as being
cates of alumina that are treated to develop fired bond.
indicators of durability.
DISCUSSION—Ceramic materials used for brick and clay tile typically
consist of clay or other similar earthy materials that have been fired in
absorption, initial rate of, n—a measure of the suction of
a kiln to temperatures above 1500ºF (655ºC). The exposure to high
water upward into a dry brick from a bed face during one
temperature begins the transformation of the constituent materials from
minute of exposure. their natural state to that of a glassy state (incipient fusion).
C1232 − 23
DISCUSSION—The bond may result from fusion or melting of one or
clay, n—an earthy or stony mineral aggregate consisting
more constituents of the composition or the surface of particles. Other
essentially of hydrous silicates of alumina, plastic when
thermal mechanisms such as sintering and interparticle reaction may be
sufficiently pulverized and wetted, rigid when dry, and
responsible for the bond.
vitreous when fired to a sufficiently high temperature.
The higher the heat treatment, the greater the extent of bonding and
consequently the greater the developed strength and the lower the
color, body, n—the range of color obtained when materials
resulting porosity. The bond development should be sufficient to
used to form the brick react to the effects of firing tempera-
provide the specified strength, porosity, and durability for any particular
ture and atmosphere.
product.
DISCUSSION—There may be additives in the body to produce a desired
firing, v—process of heating the material to elevated tempera-
color. When no materials are added to the surface of the brick and the
unit is not flashed when fired, the body color is also the through-body tures.
color, a surface feature. DISCUSSION—The temperatures are usually in e
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C1232 − 21a C1232 − 23
Standard Terminology for
Masonry
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1232; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This standard incorporates generic terms and generic definitions of terms specifically associated with manufactured masonry
units and masonry constructed with manufactured masonry units. These generic terms and definitions are used within the standards
developed by Committee C12 on Mortars and Grouts for Unit Masonry and Committee C15 on Manufactured Masonry Units.
1.2 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of terms associated with the standards specific to clay masonry units, in
particular to Specifications C32, C34, C56, C62, C126, C212, C216, C279, C410, C530, C652, C902, C1088, C1167, C1261,
C1272, and C1405, and to Test Methods C67/C67M.
1.3 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of terms associated with the standards specific to concrete masonry units in
particular to Specifications C55, C73, C90, C129, C139, C744, C1319, C1372, C1491, C1623, and C1634 and to Test Methods
C140/C140M, C426, and C1262/C1262M.
1.4 This standard incorporates terms and definition of terms associated with the standards specific to autoclaved aerated concrete
masonry units in particular to Practice C1692 and to Specifications C1386, C1691, and C1693.
1.5 This standard incorporates terms and definitions of terms associated with the standards specific to clay and concrete roofing
tile units in particular to Specifications C1167 and C1492 and to Test Methods C1568, C1569, and C1570.
1.6 For terminology specific to mortar and grout, see Terminology C1180.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C32 Specification for Sewer and Manhole Brick (Made From Clay or Shale)
C34 Specification for Structural Clay Loadbearing Wall Tile
C55 Specification for Concrete Building Brick
C56 Specification for Structural Clay Nonloadbearing Tile
This terminology is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C15.08 on
Terminology.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2021Dec. 15, 2023. Published December 2021December 2023. Originally approved in 1993. Last previous edition approved in 2021 as
C1232 – 21.C1232 – 21a. DOI: 10.1520/C1232-21A.10.1520/C1232-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1232 − 23
C62 Specification for Building Brick (Solid Masonry Units Made from Clay or Shale)
C67/C67M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
C73 Specification for Calcium Silicate Brick (Sand-Lime Brick)
C90 Specification for Loadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
C126 Specification for Ceramic Glazed Structural Clay Facing Tile, Facing Brick, and Solid Masonry Units
C129 Specification for Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
C139 Specification for Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins and Manholes
C140/C140M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
C212 Specification for Structural Clay Facing Tile
C216 Specification for Facing Brick (Solid Masonry Units Made from Clay or Shale)
C279 Specification for Chemical-Resistant Masonry Units
C410 Specification for Industrial Floor Brick
C426 Test Method for Linear Drying Shrinkage of Concrete Masonry Units
C530 Specification for Structural Clay Nonloadbearing Screen Tile
C652 Specification for Hollow Brick (Hollow Masonry Units Made From Clay or Shale)
C744 Specification for Prefaced Concrete and Calcium Silicate Masonry Units
C902 Specification for Pedestrian and Light Traffic Paving Brick
C936/C936M Specification for Solid Concrete Interlocking Paving Units
C1088 Specification for Thin Veneer Brick Units Made From Clay or Shale
C1167 Specification for Clay Roof Tiles
C1180 Terminology of Mortar and Grout for Unit Masonry
C1261 Specification for Firebox Brick for Residential Fireplaces
C1262/C1262M Test Method for Evaluating the Freeze-Thaw Durability of Dry-Cast Segmental Retaining Wall Units and
Related Concrete Units
C1272 Specification for Heavy Vehicular Paving Brick
C1319 Specification for Concrete Grid Paving Units
C1372 Specification for Dry-Cast Segmental Retaining Wall Units
C1386 Specification for Precast Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Wall Construction Units (Withdrawn 2013)
C1405 Specification for Glazed Brick (Single Fired, Brick Units)
C1491 Specification for Concrete Roof Pavers (Withdrawn 2023)
C1492 Specification for Concrete Roof Tile
C1568 Test Method for Wind Resistance of Concrete and Clay Roof Tiles (Mechanical Uplift Resistance Method)
C1569 Test Method for Wind Resistance of Concrete and Clay Roof Tiles (Wind Tunnel Method)
C1570 Test Method for Wind Resistance of Concrete and Clay Roof Tiles (Air Permeability Method)
C1623 Specification for Manufactured Concrete Masonry Lintels
C1634 Specification for Concrete Facing Brick and Other Concrete Masonry Facing Units
C1691 Specification for Unreinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Masonry Units
C1692 Practice for Construction and Testing of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Masonry
C1693 Specification for Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC)
3. Terminology
3.1 Generic Definitions—The definitions apply to manufactured masonry units and masonry constructed with manufactured
masonry units. They are generic as used by ASTM Committees C12 and C15.
bed surface, n—before and during construction, the nonvertical surfaces of a manufactured masonry unit intended by the
manufacturer to be joined by mortar or other methods.
bed surface, n—in situ, the nonvertical surfaces of a manufactured masonry unit joined by mortar or other methods.
cryptoflorescence, n—crystalline deposit of water-soluble compounds in the pores of masonry.
efflorescence, n—crystalline deposit, usually white, of water-soluble compounds on the surface of masonry.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
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face, exposed, n—the in situ exposed surface(s) of a manufactured masonry unit.masonry unit surface(s) that is exposed to view
when the unit is placed in usage.
face, finished, n—any surface(s) of a manufactured masonry unit intended by the manufacturer to be exposed to view.
freeze thaw resistance, n—the ability of masonry to maintain integrity under the forces caused by cyclic action of freezing and
thawing in the presence of moisture.
frog, n—an indentation in a bed surface of a masonry unit.
DISCUSSION—
3 3
Indentations not exceeding ⁄8 in. (9.5 mm) are termed a frog, sometimes called a panel or panel frog. Indentations exceeding ⁄8 in. (9.5 mm) are termed
a deep frog.
groove, n—a channel formed on surfaces other than finished faces of manufactured masonry units for production or construction
purposes.
height, n—vertical dimension of the face of a unit when the unit is positioned as a stretcher.
length, n—horizontal dimension of the face of a unit when the unit is positioned as a stretcher.
masonry, n—the type of construction made up of manufactured masonry units laid with mortar, grout, or other methods of
joining.
nominal dimension, n—dimension that is greater than the specified dimension by the specified thickness of a mortar joint.
DISCUSSION—
Nominal dimension is usually expressed as a whole number.
permeable unit pavement system, n—pavement with wearing surface made from clay or concrete units that allows infiltration
of water through open-graded aggregate in the joints, cores, or other openings, to a bed, base, and subbase, or combinations
thereof.
DISCUSSION—
Permeable pavement systems are utilized to reduce stormwater runoff. Permeable pavements have wearing surfaces with high initial water infiltration
through open spaces filled with aggregates to drain water into open-graded bedding and base materials. The open spaces in the wearing surface are
designed to enable sufficient infiltration rates to handle runoff from designated storm types (for example, 1 year, 24 hour event).
With unit pavers the open spaces can be achieved with exposed coring, a specially-shaped perimeter configuration, or wider joints, or combinations
thereof. Permeable pavement systems can also be made with standard units and a laying pattern that permits sufficient water entry.
score, n—a channel formed for appearance purposes on the finished faces of a manufactured masonry unit.
shell, n—the outer walls of a hollow masonry unit.
DISCUSSION—
Shell can either be an end shell or a face shell.
specified dimensions, n—dimensions to which masonry units or constructions are required to conform. Actual (measured)
dimensions may differ from the specified dimensions by permissible variations.
surface feature, n—a quality or condition of the face of a manufactured masonry unit.
DISCUSSION—
Surface features include coatings, colors, textures, relief, or combinations of these. A masonry unit may have different surface features on individual
faces.
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thickness, n—that dimension designed to lie at right angles to the face of the wall, floor, or other assembly.
unit, facing, n—manufactured masonry unit designed for use where one or more faces will be exposed to view when the unit
is placed in usage, and for which the specification includes requirements on color, finish, and other properties affecting
appearance.
unit, hollow masonry, n—unit whose net cross-sectional area in any plane parallel to the surface containing cores, cells, or deep
frogs is less than 75 % of its gross cross-sectional area measured in the same plane.
unit, manufactured masonry, n—a manmade noncombustible building product intended to be laid by hand and joined by
mortar, grout, or other methods of joining.
unit, permeable paving, n—a manufactured masonry unit for pavement applications configured to achieve a minimum
percentage of open area in the wearing surface of the pavement by coring, a specially-shaped perimeter, or larger spacer lugs,
or combinations thereof.
DISCUSSION—
Permeable paving units may be specified under C902 for Pedestrian and Light Traffic Paving Brick, C936/C936M for Solid Concrete Interlocking
Paving Units, C1272 for Heavy Vehicular Paving Brick, or C1319 for Concrete Grid Paving Units. Permeable pavement systems can also be made
with standard units and a laying pattern that permits sufficient water entry.
unit, segmental retaining wall, n—unit manufactured of concrete for the construction of dry-stacked, earth retaining walls.
DISCUSSION—
Requirements for dry-cast segmental retaining wall units are found in Specification C1372. Test methods for dry-cast segmental retaining wall units
are found in Test Methods C140/C140M.
unit, solid masonry, n—unit whose net cross-sectional area in any plane parallel to the surface containing cores, cells, or deep
frogs is 75 % or more of its gross cross-sectional area measured in the same plane.
units placed in usage, n—manufactured masonry units that have been installed in masonry.
3.2 Definitions Specific to Clay Masonry Units:
absorption, n—weight of water picked up by a clay masonry unit during immersion at prescribed conditions expressed in
relation to the dry weight of the unit.
DISCUSSION—
Two conditions of immersion are designated in standards relating to brick: 24 h in room temperature (60 to 86°F (15.5 to 30°C)) water or 5 h in boiling
water. (Different time intervals are specified for structural tile and other products.) The resulting absorptions are termed cold water absorption and
boiling water absorption.
Absorption values are used in brick and tile standards as one factor in classifying these products into durability grades. Absorptions are indicators of
the extent of firing during manufacture as well as being indicators of durability.
absorption, initial rate of, n—a measure of the suction of water upward into a dry brick from a bed face during one minute
of exposure.
DISCUSSION—
Initial rate of absorption (IRA) is a distinct property that offers different information from absorption. It is expressed as grams of water picked up in
2 2
one minute by a net area of 30 in. (194 cm ).
Initial rate of absorption is one factor influencing the quality of bond between brick and mortar. It is used in brick standards to recommend construction
practices for enhancing mortar to brick bonding.
brick, n—a solid or hollow masonry unit of clay or shale, usually formed into a rectangular prism, then burned or fired in a kiln;
brick is a ceramic product.
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brick, building, n—brick for load-resisting or other purposes where appearance properties such as texture or color are not
important (formerly called common brick); see Specification C62 and Specification C652.
brick, chemical-resistant, n—brick suitable for use in chemical environments where resistance to thermal shock may be a
consideration, usually used in conjunction with chemical-resistant mortars; see Specification C279.
brick, facing, n—brick for general purposes where appearance properties such as color, texture, and chippage are important; see
Specification C216 and Specification C652.
DISCUSSION—
Facing brick are produced from selected clays and are available in typical face sizes, various colors, and in various textures.
brick, firebox, n—brick intended for use as the lining in the fireboxes of residential fireplaces; see Specification C1261.
brick, floor, n—brick with physical properties related to resistance to chemicals, thermal and mechanical shock, or absorption,
or combinations of these, used as finished floor surfaces in industrial applications; see Specification C410.
DISCUSSION—
Other brick are used as flooring in non-industrial applications; see Specification C902. Floor brick manufactured to meet the requirements in
Specification C410 are typically smooth and dense.
brick, paving, n—brick made to provide the wearing surface of highways, streets, driveways, walkways, patios, and similar
applications; see Specifications C902 and C1272.
brick, sewer, n—low absorption, abrasive-resistant brick intended for use in drainage structures; see Specification C32.
brick, specially-shaped, n—a brick manufactured to a basic shape of other than a rectangular prism.
cells/core holes, n—continuous openings or perforations within extruded clay products.
DISCUSSION—
The extent of permissible openings is specified for each product as the percentage of gross area in the normal bedding surface plane that must be net
(solid) area. Core hole is generally used for brick while cell is used for structural tile. Cells are distinguished from core holes by being larger in size.
2 2 2 2
As an illustration, cells must be larger than 1 in. (645 mm ) under Specification C34, and 1 ⁄2 in. (968 mm ) under Specification C652.
ceramic, adj—pertaining to products containing hydrous silicates of alumina that are treated to develop fired bond.
DISCUSSION—
Ceramic materials used for brick and clay tile typically consist of clay or other similar earthy materials that have been fired in a kiln to temperatures
above 1500ºF (655ºC). The exposure to high temperature begins the transformation of the constituent materials from their natural state to that of a
glassy state (incipient fusion).
clay, n—an earthy or stony mineral aggregate consisting essentially of hydrous silicates of alumina, plastic when sufficiently
pulverized and wetted, rigid when dry, and vitreous when fired to a sufficiently high temperature.
color, body, n—the range of color obtained when materials used to form the brick react to the effects of firing temperature and
atmosphere.
DISCUSSION—
There may be additives in the body to produce a desired color. When no materials are added to the surface of the brick and the unit is not flashed when
fired, the body color is also the through-body color, a surface feature.
color, through-body, n—the range of surface color obtained when units without materials added to the surfaces for appearance
purposes are fired without flashing.
DISCUSSION—
Through-body color results from the materials used to form the brick reacting to the effects of firing temperature. There may be additives in the body
to produce a desired color.
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coring, v—the process of perforating structural clay products, generally performed during extrusion by supporting cores (rods)
within the shaping cap of the extruder.
engobe, n—a slip, other than a glaze, that is not impervious and is applied as a coating to a ceramic body to function as a glaze
undercoat or to impart color, texture, opacity, or other characteristics.
extrusion, n—shaping of brick by pushing plastic clay or shale through a di
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