Masonry Flashcards
6 cards from real Other Skilled Trades practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Masonry flashcards as text
What is the standard mortar joint thickness used in brick masonry construction?
Answer: 3/8 inch
3/8-inch mortar joints are the standard thickness for brick masonry as specified in ASTM standards and most US building codes.
Which mortar type is the strongest and most commonly used for load-bearing masonry walls?
Answer: Type M
Type M mortar has the highest compressive strength (2,500 psi minimum) and is used for below-grade, load-bearing, and high-stress masonry applications.
What is the purpose of a weep hole in a brick veneer wall?
Answer: To drain moisture from behind the brick veneer
Weep holes are openings left at the bottom of brick veneer walls to allow water that penetrates behind the veneer to drain out, preventing moisture buildup.
What is a 'header' course in brick masonry?
Answer: A course of bricks laid perpendicular to the wall face to tie wythes together
A header course consists of bricks laid crosswise (perpendicular to the wall face) so they span across multiple wythes, mechanically tying the wall together.
What tool is used by masons to check that courses of brick are rising at a consistent, level height?
Answer: Story pole (or gauge rod)
A story pole (gauge rod) is a marked rod that shows the height of each course of brick, allowing the mason to quickly check that courses are rising correctly.
Which type of masonry bond pattern uses only stretcher courses with no headers?
Answer: Running bond
Running bond uses only stretchers (bricks laid with their long face to the front) with no header courses, typically used for brick veneer over a structural backup.