Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 3 Exam Practice

Why would a brick home constructed in the early 1900s likely have header courses?

1. To enhance insulation

2. To provide an aesthetic appeal

3. To improve structural stability

4. To house wiring and pipes

5. To establish load-bearing capability

6. To be a modern architectural feature

The correct answer is: To provide an aesthetic appeal

The presence of header courses in a brick home constructed in the early 1900s relates primarily to structural and functional considerations rather than purely aesthetic ones. Header courses, which are rows of bricks laid flat (as opposed to the typical running bond where bricks are laid lengthwise), serve specific purposes in masonry. In these older homes, header courses were implemented to help distribute the load of the structure above, thus contributing to structural integrity. They assist in preventing potential cracking in the walls caused by excess weight or settling. Additionally, this technique can incorporate reinforcement for openings like doors and windows, ensuring that the frames maintain their shape and stability over time. While the aesthetic appeal of header courses may be an incidental benefit, the primary reason for their use in the early 1900s construction was to enhance structural performance and capability. Therefore, the emphasis on a purely aesthetic explanation does not fully capture the original intent behind their incorporation in masonry.