Final answer:
Fired bricks are preferred over air-dried mud bricks due to their greater durability, strength, and weather resistance. The firing process produces consistent, moisture-resistant bricks that contribute to the structural stability of buildings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fired bricks are considered superior building materials compared to air-dried mud bricks. This is primarily due to the enhanced durability, strength, and weather resistance that firing imparts to the bricks. When bricks are fired at high temperatures, chemical changes occur that make the bricks more robust and less prone to erosion or damage caused by weather. In contrast, air-dried mud bricks may be weaker and susceptible to water damage, since they're simply dried in the sun and don't undergo a chemical transformation.
Additionally, fired bricks tend to have more consistent shapes and sizes due to the uniformity that the firing process offers. This consistency is beneficial for the structural stability of buildings, making them easier to stack and bond with mortar. Furthermore, fired bricks are less likely to absorb moisture, which minimizes the risk of dampness and associated issues within a building. Meanwhile, air-dried bricks can vary in quality and are more absorbent, thus they may not provide the same level of protection against the elements. Historically, fired brick technology enabled ancient civilizations, like the Romans, to build more enduring and grand structures across their empire.