Cracks in masonry walls due to thermal movements of overlying slab

Abstract

Concrete slabs exposed to direct sunlight experiences temperature related horizontal movements. In addition, temperatures on the top surface will be higher than those on the underside of the slab, causing an upward movement of the slab during heating. In a typical building, masonry and concrete structural elements restrain each other at their respective interfaces. Therefore, significant movements may be generated on the masonry walls, due to movement on roof slab. These movements can result in overstressing and cracking in masonry.