What is a significant disadvantage of masonry as a structural material?

Masonry's significant disadvantage stems from its inherent structural characteristics, particularly its reliance on bearing walls for support. Unlike materials that can be used for a wider variety of structural types, masonry typically requires walls to carry loads; this limits design flexibility and can complicate architectural layout. In modern construction, where open floor plans and versatile spaces are often desired, the necessity of bearing walls may present significant limitations, making it less adaptable compared to materials that allow for more diverse structural systems, such as steel or reinforced concrete.

While other options mention important factors, they do not encapsulate the primary limitation related to masonry's usage in architectural design and construction. For example, the requirement for skilled labor, while true, may vary according to the sophistication of the project. Similarly, material costs can differ based on location and availability, and while masonry can fare poorly under extremely high temperatures, it is commonly used in a variety of climates and conditions, not solely restricted by thermal performance. Thus, the limitation of being restricted to bearing walls is particularly significant in the context of masonry's performance as a structural material.