In masonry, why is it essential to square a building accurately?

Squaring a building accurately is fundamentally important to ensure its structural integrity. When a building is squared, it means that all corners form right angles, and the walls are aligned properly with each other. This alignment is crucial because it directly affects how the weight of the structure is distributed. Proper squaring helps to maintain balance and stability, preventing issues such as leaning or sagging that could lead to structural failure over time.

When a building is not squared, it can result in uneven loads on walls and foundations, which might cause cracking, shifting, or collapse. Additionally, accurate squaring is vital for ensuring that other construction elements, such as doors and windows, fit correctly and operate as intended. This accuracy avoids future problems related to misalignment that could compromise both the safety and functionality of the structure. In essence, squaring is a foundational practice that contributes to the overall safety and durability of masonry work.