Masonry and carpentry: Brickwork, woodwork, and finishing.
Masonry and carpentry transform structural frameworks into functional, enclosed spaces through brickwork, woodwork, and finishing touches. These trades follow structural phases, adding durability, aesthetics, and livability using skilled handiwork.
Brickwork
Brickwork erects walls using clay bricks, concrete blocks, or stone laid in mortar beds. Masons soak bricks 24 hours to prevent moisture draw from mortar, then lay English bond patterns—headers and stretchers alternating for strength. Mortar (1:4 cement-sand) spreads 10mm thick, joints tooled concave for weatherproofing. Vertical alignment checks with plumb bobs every third course; levels ensure straight runs. Reinforcement ladder-type mesh—inserts in cavity walls every fourth course, tied to frame with dovetail anchors. Openings frame with lintels, pre-cast or corbelled. In Dubai’s heat, work pauses midday; curing sprays water thrice daily for 7 days. Expansion joints at 9m intervals accommodate thermal movement.
Woodwork
Woodwork frames doors, windows, partitions, and formwork using treated timber. Carpenters cut kiln-dried deodar or hardwood to size, planing edges square and treating with creosote against termites. Door frames fix to brick reveals with holdfasts or frame anchors, hung with 100mm butt hinges. Shuttering for slabs uses plywood sheets propped on adjustable steel props spaced 600mm. False ceilings grid with galvanized channels, gypsum boards screwed at 300mm centers. Staircases string cantilevered treads with balustrades, risers nosed for safety. Sanding precedes two coats of primer, ensuring smooth finishes before paint.
Finishing
Finishing refines surfaces for occupancy. Plaster coats walls in 12mm gypsum or 20mm cement-sand, scratched and floated for key between layers. Skimming applies 3mm neat finish, sponged level. Tile dadoes bed on 1:3 mortar with cement slurry adhesive, grouted after 48 hours cure. Wood polish uses French spirit varnish, three coats rubbed with pumice. Metal fittings—handles, locks—fix post-painting, lubricated for smooth operation. Gaps seal with mastic at corners, preventing cracks.
