When a brick is cut into two halves longitudinally, one part is called:
🧱 Understanding Brick Cuts
To create proper bonds in brickwork, especially at corners and openings, full bricks often need to be cut into smaller, specific shapes. A "longitudinal" cut means slicing the brick along its longest dimension (its length). This is different from a transverse cut, which would go across the brick's width.
🔬 Detailed Analysis of the Options
C. queen closer
This is the correct answer. A Queen Closer is precisely defined as a brick cut in half along its length. The resulting piece has the same length and height as the original brick, but is only half the width. It is used to create the necessary lap in brick bonds, typically placed next to a header at the start of a course.
A. king closer
This is incorrect. A King Closer is not a simple longitudinal cut. It involves cutting a triangular piece from the corner of the brick, starting from the midpoint of its width to the midpoint of its length.
B. cornice brick
This is incorrect. A cornice brick is a specially moulded brick with a decorative profile. It is used to build ornamental cornices (projecting decorative features) at the top of a wall. It is a special shape, not a standard cut.
D. voussoir
This is incorrect. A voussoir is a wedge-shaped brick or stone used to form an arch or a vault. Its shape is tapered to fit the curve of the arch and is not created by a simple longitudinal cut of a standard brick.
📊 Summary: Common Brick Cuts and Specials
| Brick Type | Description | Shape |
|---|---|---|
| Queen Closer | Cut in half lengthwise. | Long and slender. |
| King Closer | Triangular corner removed. | Notched, wider than a half-brick. |
| Cornice Brick | Moulded for decoration. | Curved or angled profile. |
| Voussoir | Used for arches. | Wedge-shaped, tapered. |
💡 Study Tips
- Queen is Slender: The easiest way to remember is that a Queen closer is long and slender, created by slicing the brick lengthwise.
- King of the Corner: A King closer has a more complex, notched shape for building strong corners.
- Longitudinal vs. Transverse: A longitudinal cut is along the length. A transverse cut (which creates a "bat") is across the width.
- Cut vs. Moulded: Remember that closers are *cut* from standard bricks, while specials like cornice bricks and voussoirs are *moulded* into their unique shapes from the start.