National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) Masonry Curriculum
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The study of masonry is one of the world’s oldest and most respected crafts. Masonry construction existed for thousands of years. The remains of stone buildings date back 15,000 years, and the earliest manufactured bricks unearthed by archaeologists are more than 10,000 years old. These bricks were made of hand-shaped, dried mud. Among the most well known works of masons are the pyramids of ancient Egypt and Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.
NCCER’s three-level curriculum encompasses modules such as Mortar, Metalwork in Masonry, and Estimating. |
Masonry Level I (4th Edition)
INTRODUCTION TO MASONRY
(12.5 Hours) (Module 28101-13) Provides information about basic masonry materials, tools, techniques, and safety precautions; explains how to mix mortar by hand and lay masonry units; and describes the skills, attitudes, and abilities of successful masons. MASONRY SAFETY 15 Hours) (Module 28106-13) Describes how to identify the common causes of accidents and the hazards associated with masonry tools, equipment, mortar, and concrete. Provides information 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 28102-13) 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 & SPECIFICATIONS (10 Hours) (Module 28103-13) 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 28104-13) 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 & INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES (60 Hours) (Module 28105-13) Describes 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. Provides information about masonry reinforcements and accessories used to lay block and brick professionally and safely. Masonry Level III (4th Edition)
MASONRY IN HIGH-RISE CONSTRUCTION (17.5 Hours) (Module ID 28301-05) Describes activities involved in organizing and implementing the construction of high-rise buildings. Focuses on masonry construction techniques used in high-rise construction. Emphasizes safety and logistics. SPECIALIZED MATERIALS & TECHNIQUES (60 Hours) (Module ID 28302-05) Describes specialized materials and techniques used in the masonry trade. Covers properties and work requirements for such materials as natural and cultured stone, acid brick, refractory brick, structural tile, and glass block. Presents techniques for working under cold- and hot-weather conditions and explains construction of masonry sound barriers. REPAIR & RESTORATION 15 Hours) (Module ID 28303-05) Explains problems that appear in masonry structures and describes techniques used to repair them, including tuckpointing, brick replacement, crack sealing, waterproofing, and stain removal. COMMERCIAL DRAWINGS 12.5 Hours) (Module ID 28304-05) Describes the format and content of commercial drawings and their use in conveying specific construction requirements. Explains the standard format for specifications. ESTIMATING 25 Hours) (Module ID 28305-05) Covers procedures for takeoffs and estimating quantities of masonry material and accessories. Several methods are described, including coursing, square foot, rule of thumb, and table methods. Introduces computer-based estimating aids. SITE LAYOUT - DISTANCE MEASUREMENT & LEVELING 22.5 Elective Hours) (Module ID 28306-05) Covers the principles, equipment, and methods used to perform distance measurement and differential leveling. Presents the layout responsibilities of surveyors, field engineers, and masons; how to understand and use site/plot plan drawings; and methods used for on-site communication. INTRODUCTORY SKILLS FOR THE CREW LEADER (16 Hours) (Module ID 28307-05) Covers project planning and scheduling techniques as well as coordination and communication of work assignments to masonry work crews and other trades and crafts. Also describes project setup and materials purchasing requirements. |
Masonry Level II (4th Edition)
RESIDENTIAL PLANS & CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS
(12.5 Hours) (Module ID 28201-14) 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 28202-14) 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 28203-14) 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 OPEINGS & METALWORK (20 Hours) (Module ID 28204-14) 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 28205-14) Describes the construction of masonry wall systems, weep vents, and joints. Includes safety requirements and interaction with structural components. EFFECT OF CLIMATE ON MASONRY (20 Hours) (Module ID 28206-14) 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 & QUALITY CONTROL (15 Hours) (Module ID 28207-14) Introduces the quality control requirements for masonry construction. Presents procedures for inspection and testing of masonry materials and finished masonry construction |
