ICC Structural Masonry Inspector (Exam 84) study guide
ICC Structural Masonry Inspector (Exam 84) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The ICC Structural Masonry Inspector (Exam 84) is a certification exam for code officials, special inspectors, and construction professionals who verify that structural masonry is built in accordance with approved construction documents and the governing code. It is administered by the International Code Council (ICC) as part of its certification program. The ICC Structural Masonry Inspector (Exam 84) study guide has 10 sections and about 2,600 words.
01General Provisions, Scope, and Referenced Standards
This domain tests the administrative and standards framework: what the IBC and TMS documents require before masonry is built. Expect questions on scope, referenced standards, submittals, and where inspection authority comes from.
295 words, about 1 min02Materials: Masonry Units, Mortar, Grout, Reinforcement, and Accessories
Load-bearing concrete masonry units must meet ASTM C90, with a minimum net-area compressive strength of 2,000 psi. Facing brick is ASTM C216, graded SW, MW, or NW for weathering.
294 words, about 1 min03Structural Design of Masonry: Allowable Stress and Strength Design Principles
TMS 402 permits allowable stress design (ASD) and strength design. ASD compares computed stresses to code allowable stresses; strength design uses factored loads and resistance factors.
275 words, about 1 min04Governing Codes and Standards for Masonry Construction and Inspection
The IBC adopts TMS 402 and TMS 602 by reference; TMS 402 is the design standard and TMS 602 is the construction specification. ASTM standards supply material and test methods.
273 words, about 1 min05Construction Documents, Plan Review, and Inspection Planning
Before work starts, review the approved plans and specifications for the specified f'm and design method; unit types and grades; mortar and grout types; reinforcement sizes, spacing, laps, and cover; anchors, ties, and joint reinforcement; flashing, weeps, and movement joints; lintels and connections; and the special inspection and testing schedule. Build a hold-point list: foundation or footing; first-course layout; reinforcement and anchor placement before grouting; cleanouts; grout lift; prism, mortar, and grout sampling; and final.
246 words, about 1 min06Mortar and Grout: Proportioning, Mixing, and Field Testing
ASTM C270 covers proportion and property specifications. Common volume proportions are Type M 1 cement : 1/4 lime : 3 sand; Type S 1 : 1/2 : 4-1/2; Type N 1 : 1 : 6; and Type O 1 : 2 : 9.
322 words, about 2 min07Reinforcement, Connectors, and Embed Placement
Verify bar size, grade, spacing, lap length, and cover. Common reinforcement standards are ASTM A615/A615M for deformed bars, A951 for joint reinforcement, and A153 for galvanized coatings.
249 words, about 1 min08Masonry Assembly and Workmanship: Laying, Bonding, Anchorage, and Tolerances
TMS 602 governs workmanship. Use full bed and head joints; nominal thickness is 3/8 in., with the code tolerance typically from 1/4 to 1/2 in.
224 words, about 1 min09Grouting and Consolidation Procedures
Grout must be placed in lifts allowed by TMS 602; low-lift grouting commonly limits lifts to about 5 ft, while high-lift methods require special procedures and cleanouts. Provide cleanouts at the bottom of grout pours and at required locations; inspect before closing.
201 words, about 1 min10Inspection, Testing, and Special Inspection Requirements
IBC Chapter 17 requires special inspection for masonry under the conditions in the code, notably Seismic Design Category C and above and other specified cases. The statement of special inspections identifies continuous and periodic inspection requirements.
221 words, about 1 min