ICC Masonry Inspector S2 key terms

A small assemblage of masonry units and mortar built in a stack bond and tested in compression to estimate the compressive strength of the wall it represents.

The specified design strength of masonry in compression, in psi or MPa, verified by prism tests or unit-and-mortar testing and used in structural calculations.

The permitted combinations of unit type, mortar type, and grout used to establish design compressive strength values when prism testing is not performed.

A classification (M, S, N, O, K) reflecting the proportions of cementitious materials, lime, and sand that determine mortar's strength, workability, and durability characteristics.

The specified volumetric proportions of portland cement, lime, sand, and water used to produce a given mortar type; field batching must match the approved proportions.

A cementitious material in masonry mortar that improves workability, water retention, and flexibility; hydrated lime is the common form used in field mixing.

A high-slump cementitious mixture placed into masonry cores or cavities to bond units, embed reinforcement, and increase wall strength and stiffness.

A single continuous placement of grout in a wall, limited in height by code so that voids, bridging, and segregation are avoided.

The total height of grout placed in one operation, typically bounded by the lift height and the height of the wall being grouted.

The process of working grout or concrete with a vibrator or rod to remove entrapped air and ensure full contact with units and reinforcement.

An opening left at the bottom of a grouted cavity so mortar droppings and debris can be removed before grouting begins; it must be inspected and then sealed.

The layer of mortar between masonry units; its thickness and profile affect bond, water penetration resistance, and compressive strength of the assembly.

The horizontal mortar joint between courses of masonry units; its thickness and fullness are critical to structural performance.

The vertical mortar joint between adjacent masonry units in the same course; it must be filled to develop required strength and weather resistance.

Compacting and shaping the mortar surface with a tool while it is still workable, producing a dense, concave joint that sheds water.

Impervious material installed at wall bases, openings, and transitions to direct water out of the wall assembly and prevent moisture intrusion.

A small opening in the mortar joint above flashing that allows accumulated water in the wall cavity to drain to the exterior.

A membrane or coating applied behind masonry veneer to keep moisture from reaching framing and interior spaces.

A single wythe of masonry attached to a backing wall for appearance and weather protection, carrying little or no structural load.

A device that ties masonry veneer or a masonry wall to its backing or structural frame to resist out-of-plane and seismic forces.

A metal connector embedded in mortar joints that fastens a masonry wythe to the backing wall, spaced per code or approved plans.

Steel bars placed in grouted masonry cores or bond beams to resist tension and shear and to provide ductility.

A grouted, horizontally reinforced masonry member built into a wall to provide continuity, tie the wall together, and resist lateral loads.

The required overlap of reinforcing bars so that force transfers from one bar to the next; it depends on bar size, grout strength, and bar location.

A manufactured building block such as brick, concrete masonry unit, or stone used in masonry construction; units are classified by type and grade.

A hollow or solid block of cementitious material, commonly 8 by 8 by 16 inches nominal, available in various weights and grades.

A fired clay masonry unit classified by grade and type for exposure and use; absorption and compressive strength affect selection.

Consensus technical specifications, such as those for masonry units, mortar, and grout, that define material properties and test methods referenced by building codes.

Sampling and testing of mortar or grout as mixed on site to verify that proportions and properties meet the approved submittals.

A document recording sample identification, test method, results, and laboratory information for materials or assemblies submitted to the building official.

Construction documents that have been reviewed and stamped by the building official and must be kept on site and followed during inspection.

The submitted package of forms, plans, and supporting calculations requesting authorization to perform masonry construction work.

The building department's examination of construction documents for compliance with adopted codes before a permit is issued.

A written modification to approved construction documents; for code purposes it must be documented and, where required, re-reviewed before the work proceeds.

Inspection by a qualified inspector of critical masonry work such as grouting, reinforcement placement, and testing, required where the code or plans specify it.

A document identifying the elements requiring special inspection and the qualifications of the inspector and testing agency, submitted with the permit application.

The inspector's written record of observations, tests, deviations, and corrective actions, submitted to the building official and contractor.

Work or material that does not comply with approved plans or code; it must be documented and corrected or resolved through an approved process.

A written directive from the building official halting work that is unsafe or not in compliance until the issue is resolved.

A formal written notice from the code authority describing a violation, the corrective action required, and the deadline for compliance.

A stage of work that must be inspected and approved before the next phase may proceed, such as grouting after reinforcement inspection.

A document issued by the building official confirming that completed work complies with approved plans and may be occupied for its intended use.

The last inspection verifying that all permitted work is complete and compliant before a certificate of occupancy is issued.