What is the main purpose of a lintel band in a stone masonry building?

To tie the walls together at the lintel level, provide resistance against out-of-plane forces, and ensure integral box-action of the building during an earthquake (Clause 5.2).

Is vertical reinforcement mandatory in stone masonry?

It is strongly recommended at corners, T-junctions, and jambs of openings for buildings in seismic zones III, IV, and V to provide ductility and tie the masonry courses together (Clause 6).

What is the recommended mortar mix for better seismic performance?

A minimum of cement-sand 1:6 or cement-lime-sand 1:2:9 is recommended. The use of mud mortar is discouraged in high seismic zones (Clause 3.3).

How many horizontal bands are recommended in a single-storey building?

At least two bands are recommended: one at the lintel level and another at the plinth level. A roof-level band is also advisable (Clause 5).

IS 13829 Part 1

: 1993

Earthquake Resistant Design and Construction of Buildings - Guidelines: Part 1 Unreinforced Masonry Buildings

CurrentSpecializedGuidelinesStructural Engineering · Masonry and Bricks

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This Indian Standard provides guidelines for improving the earthquake resistance of both new and existing low-strength stone masonry buildings. It focuses on practical, prescriptive measures such as incorporating horizontal seismic bands, vertical reinforcement, and proper connections between structural elements. The code's primary aim is to enhance the integrity and prevent the collapse of such vulnerable buildings during earthquakes.

Provides guidelines for earthquake-resistant design and construction practices for unreinforced masonry buildings.

Quick Reference Values

minimum wall thickness for random rubble masonry350 mm

minimum thickness of horizontal seismic band75 mm

minimum longitudinal steel in seismic bands2 bars of 8 mm diameter

maximum unsupported length of wall between cross walls5 m

maximum spacing of vertical steel bars1.2 m

maximum area of openings in a wall30-50% of wall area depending on seismic zone

Practical Notes

The effectiveness of these guidelines heavily relies on good workmanship, especially in ensuring proper bonding in masonry and continuity of reinforcement at corners and junctions.

Focus on providing 'through-stones' or bonding elements in random rubble masonry to ensure the wall acts as a single, integrated unit.

Proper curing of RC bands is critical for them to be effective; this is often overlooked in rural and semi-urban construction.