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Masonry

Overview

Created in partnership with industry, this rigorous Masonry curriculum covers masonry tools and equipment, specifications, repair, restoration, reinforcement, and more for residential and commercial masonry projects.

The three-level Masonry curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.

Craft Snapshot

Journey Level
Assessment Available
REVISED
2013, 4th Edition
NCCERconnect Deliver instruction using our pre-loaded content and course management tools, streamline training, and track results through the online gradebook. Students learn using the interactive eTextbook and Media Library with Active Figures that bring the material to life, anytime and anywhere they choose.
Available
LANGUAGES
English

Curriculum Details

4th Edition
Total Recommended Hours
Competencies & Objectives Lists
Levels 1-3: 550, includes Core hours Click here
Introduction to Masonry
12.5 Hours

Module ID 28101: Covers basic masonry materials, tools, techniques, and safety precautions. Explains how to mix mortar by hand and lay masonry units. Also describes the skills, attitudes, and abilities of successful masons.

Masonry Safety
15 Hours

Module ID 28106: Describes how to identify the common causes of accidents and the hazards associated with masonry tools, equipment, mortar, and concrete. Focuses on using personal protective equipment, working safely from elevated surfaces, properly using masonry tools and equipment, and handling masonry materials safely.

Masonry Tools & Equipment
15 Hours

Module ID 28102: Describes a variety of hand tools, measuring tools, mortar equipment, power tools and equipment, and lifting equipment that masons use on the job, and explains how to use these tools correctly and safely. Provides instructions for assembling and disassembling scaffolds.

Measurements, Drawings, and Specifications
10 Hours

Module ID 28103: Reviews the calculation of distances and areas common in masonry work; describes the information found on residential construction drawings; and explains the role of specifications, standards, and codes.

Mortar
10 Hours

Module ID 28104: Explains the types and properties of mortar and the materials used in the mixture, including admixtures; provides instructions for mixing mortar by machine; and describes how to properly apply and store mortar.

Masonry Units and Installation Techniques
60 Hours

Module ID 28105: Covers characteristics of block and brick; how to set up, lay out, and bond block and brick; how to cut block and brick; how to lay and tool block and brick; and how to clean block and brick once they have been laid. Describes masonry reinforcements and accessories used to lay block and brick professionally and safely.

Residential Plans and Drawing Interpretation
12.5 Hours

Module ID 28201: Explains how to work with residential plans and construction drawings and convert that information into action on the job. Describes the organization and format of plans, dimensioning and scaling, and estimating materials quantities from information on the plans.

Residential Masonry
25 Hours

Module ID 28202: Covers the construction techniques for residential and small structure foundations, steps, patios, decks, chimneys, and fireplaces. Describes work activities that the mason must perform, as well as those that tie into the masonry work.

Reinforced Masonry
20 Hours

Module ID 28203: Focuses on the use of grout and other types of reinforcement, such as reinforcing steel, to strengthen and support masonry structures. Describes the locations where grout can be used and the techniques for placement. Discusses the use and application of various types of reinforced masonry elements, such as rebar and bond beam lintels.

Masonry Openings and Metalwork
20 Hours

Module ID 28204: Introduces types of metal components, including metal rods, joint reinforcements, plates, anchors, fasteners, and hollow metal frames for doors and windows, and explains how they are installed.

Advanced Laying Techniques
40 Hours

Module ID 28205: Describes the construction of masonry wall systems, weep vents, and joints. Includes safety requirements and interaction with structural components.

Effects of Climate on Masonry
20 Hours

Module ID 28206: Describes materials and techniques used to apply insulation and methods of moisture control as they relate to the mason’s trade. Includes hot- and cold-weather considerations.

Construction Inspection and Quality Control
15 Hours

Module ID 28207: Introduces the quality control requirements for masonry construction. Presents procedures for inspection and testing of masonry materials and finished masonry construction.

Elevated Masonry
15 Hours

Module ID 28301: Describes how to work safely and efficiently on elevated structures. Explains how to maintain a safe work environment, ensure protection from falls, how to brace walls from outside forces, and how to identify common types of elevated walls. Stresses safety around equipment such as cranes and hoists.

Specialized Materials and Techniques
60 Hours

Module ID 28302: Introduces unique types of masonry situations that won’t be encountered on every job, including sound-barrier walls, arches, and the use of acid brick, refractory brick, and glass block. Describes the handling and construction of these materials, and introduces the intricacies of each.

Repair and Restoration
20 Hours

Module ID 28303: Details techniques for identifying and repairing common masonry problems of weathering, settling, stain, etc. Explains tuckpointing, the removal of efflorescence and stains, and crack repair. Includes sections on how to repair foundation walls, water intrusion, and localized problems, as well as fireplace and chimney repair.

Commercial Drawings
25 Hours

Module ID 28304: Explains how to read and identify drawings for commercial structures using previous experience from structural drawings as a baseline. Describes requirements for these drawings, as well as how to interpret and create plans for architectural, structural, and shop drawings.

Estimating
25 Hours

Module ID 28305: Describes how to estimate building materials, such as brick, block, grout, mortar, joint reinforcement, and masonry ties. Details multiple methods for estimating, as well as how to estimate for masonry elements such as openings and lintels.

Site Layout - Distance Measurement and Leveling
20 Hours

Module ID 28306: Covers the techniques needed to produce and read site plans and topographic maps. Describes the use of measuring devices such as tapes, range poles, plumb bobs, total stations, leveling instruments, and field notes. Also discusses the construction of batter boards and how to ensure correct measurements.

Stone Masonry
15 Hours

Module ID 28308: Focuses on the application of natural stone in masonry construction. Describes types of stone and how stone is cut, finished, and stored. Discusses equipment and tools for handling stone. Details how to estimate and install stone using anchors and mortars and explains how to install stone veneers.

Fundamentals of Crew Leadership
20 Hours

Module ID 46101, Second Edition: Covers basic leadership skills and explains different leadership styles, communication, delegating, and problem solving. Jobsite safety and the crew leader’s role in safety are discussed, as well as project planning, scheduling, and estimating. Includes performance tasks to assist the learning process.

Contributing Subject Matter Experts

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are a vital part of NCCER’s Curriculum development process. SMEs are construction and maintenance professionals who have journey-level experience and have experience teaching their trades to others.

View Subject Matter Experts
Contributing Subject Matter Experts
Below is a list of subject matter experts for this craft:
B

Bryan Light, Brick Industry Association

D

Dennis Neal, Florida Masonry Apprentice & Educational Foundation

J

Jeff Buczkiewicz, Mason Contractors Association of America

John Foley, RMMI

K

Kenneth Cook, Pyramid Masonry Contractors Inc.

L

Lawrence Johnson, Skyline High School

M

Merritt Johnson, W. W. Samuell High School

Moroni Mejia, Trenwyth Architectural

R

Robert (Buddie) Barnes, Dee Brown Inc.

S

Steven Fechino, Mortar Net

T

Todd Hartnell, Central Cabarrus High School

NCCERconnect

Optimize your classroom time, while accelerating knowledge for learners. NCCERconnect works to provide learners with always-available access to online training materials, including videos, interactives, a rich eText, practice quizzes and other engaging content.

  • Mobile access to the eText also allows for learning on-the-go.
  • Instructors can get started quickly with pre-built assignments, use the robust course tools for class management, and track student participation and results through the online gradebook.
  • Designed to help learner engagement in any classroom, whether a blended, virtual or traditional classroom environment.

Instructor Resources

Instructor Toolbox

NCCER’s Instructor Toolbox provides easy access to important instructional resources for your training program. You’ll find downloadable course planning tools, examples of classroom activities and projects, and instructor tips and best practices to help you enhance your program.

Academic Pre- and Post-Tests

Academic pre- and post-tests are created for secondary career and technical education. These tests are designed to be used as a diagnostic tool to gauge the trainee’s knowledge gained during the course of academic instruction.

Successful completion of these tests will not result in an NCCER credential.

Assessments

NCCER’s assessments evaluate the knowledge of an individual in a specific craft area and provide a prescription for upgrade training when needed. All assessments are based upon the NCCER Curriculum and have been developed in conjunction with subject matter experts from the industry. Click the assessment title below to open its specifications.

Masonry