Lesson Category: Special Inspection of Structural Masonry Series

This lesson will discuss how reinforcement and grout are placed in masonry walls and special precautions needed to ensure they are properly placed so that the reinforced masonry system performs properly. This includes tolerances on placement of reinforcement, and the cleanliness of spaces to be filled with grout.…

This lesson will review common masonry tests and sampling methods as well as when such test may be appropriate and required by the Quality Assurance/Quality Control programs. Common errors in testing will be discussed to try to reduce such errors from being replicated in the future.…

This lesson is design to provide an understanding of the effects of hot and cold weather on masonry construction, especially as it pertains to the responsibilities of a Special Inspector. It defines conditions that are considered either hot or cold. As it relates to protecting new masonry, this lesson explains steps that should be taken by the contractor (and verified by the inspector) to prepare for construction, to do during construction, and to do immediately following construction.…

This lesson will review the basics of masonry construction so that those observing or accessing that construction are aware of common procedures and practices. Tolerances of units and construction will be reviewed so that those constructing masonry, or judging that construction know whether the resulting work is reasonable and within common tolerances.…

This lesson is designed to provide a thorough understanding of grout for new masonry construction, especially as it pertains to the responsibilities of a Special Inspector. It describes the purpose of grout for masonry construction, both fine and coarse, as well as conventional and self-consolidating mixes, and desirable properties for all of these. It…

This lesson is designed to provide a thorough understanding of mortar for new masonry construction, especially as it pertains to the responsibilities of a Special Inspector. It describes the purpose of mortar joining masonry units and the desirable properties of fresh and hardened mortar.…

This lesson will review common types of reinforcement, ties and anchors used in masonry along with requirements on their manufacture and use while discussing which ones are preferred and why.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss why reinforcement, ties and anchors may be needed in masonry
• Review the requirements for common types of reinforcement, ties, and anchors used in masonry
• Overview basics requirements special inspectors should be aware of related to various reinforcement, ties and anchors
• Review corrosion and protection requirements for reinforcement, ties, and anchors

This lesson will review the basics of masonry unit production and properties with a specific focus on those items inspectors and construction personnel would need to know about or confirm. Common concrete masonry units and clay masonry units will be discussed, along with key differences in these materials.…

This lesson provides an overview of why special inspection of masonry is required, what needs to be inspected, and how often inspection is typically provided based on requirements in various codes, standards, and guides. Basic special inspection requirements for various masonry tasks are reviewed, and expectations on a special inspector are discussed.…