NCCER Masonry study plan
NCCER Masonry · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 7 hours per week
Masonry knowledge assessment
Define masonry units (brick, block, stone, tile) and their nominal vs. actual dimensions from memory
Calculate mortar mix ratios for Type N, S, M, and O and state one use case for each
Identify masonry hand tools and trowels by function and describe safe handling
Explain masonry terminology (wythe, course, bed joint, head joint, collar joint, flashing, weep hole)
Your checkpoint
A one-page terminology and mortar-type reference sheet written from memory, then corrected against a text
Masonry knowledge assessment
Compute brick and block quantities from wall area using nominal module dimensions
Calculate mortar volume needed per 100 square feet of wall for a given joint width
Lay out a running bond and a common bond pattern on paper to scale
Describe the purpose and placement of flashing, weep holes, and drainage cavities
Your checkpoint
A worked quantity-takeoff problem set (5 problems) with correct answers and shown steps
Masonry knowledge assessment
Explain the role of reinforcement: joint reinforcement, rebar, and grout in reinforced walls
Describe grouting procedures: cleanouts, lift heights, consolidation, and pour timing
Identify causes of efflorescence, cracking, and bond failure and the corrective action for each
Interpret basic masonry symbols and wall sections on a drawing
Your checkpoint
A labeled sketch of a reinforced block wall section showing rebar, grout, flashing, and joint reinforcement
Masonry knowledge assessment
State curing and cold-weather/hot-weather masonry precautions and their rationale
Explain allowable tolerances for plumb, level, and alignment of masonry walls
Describe quality-control checks an inspector performs on mortar, grout, and unit placement
Review all Domain 1 notes and self-quiz on weak areas
Your checkpoint
A 30-question self-made quiz scored at 80% or higher with missed items rewritten correctly
Masonry performance verification
Set up a work area and lay out a corner lead with correct plumb and level
Build a masonry lead to a specified height while maintaining consistent joint thickness
Spread and furrow mortar to consistent bed depth without waste
Demonstrate correct trowel handling and unit placement for a full work session
Your checkpoint
A completed corner lead measured for plumb and level, with recorded measurements within tolerance
Masonry performance verification
Strike joints to a specified profile on a completed practice panel
Install flashing and weep holes in a practice wall to spec
Cut masonry units by hand and with a saw to marked dimensions within tolerance
Place and tie reinforcement in a grouted wall section
Your checkpoint
A practice panel with finished joints, flashing, and weep holes that passes a self-check against a written checklist
Masonry performance verification & Masonry knowledge assessment
Mix mortar to specified consistency and verify workability and set time
Build a wall section that includes reinforcement and grouting from start to finish
Perform cleanup and tool maintenance after a work session
Re-test Domain 1 weak topics identified in week 4
Your checkpoint
A finished, grouted, reinforced wall section documented with photos and a written procedure log
Masonry knowledge assessment & Masonry performance verification
Complete a full timed practice assessment across both domains
Demonstrate each performance task end-to-end without prompting
Review errors and restate the correct method for each
Prepare tools, PPE, and materials checklist for test day
Your checkpoint
A timed practice assessment score of 85% or higher plus a signed performance task checklist
Milestones
Week 2: Quantity takeoff problems solved correctly without reference material
Week 4: Domain 1 self-quiz at 80% or higher and weak topics listed
Week 6: Practice panel passes joint, flashing, and weep hole checklist
Week 8: Timed mixed-domain assessment at 85% or higher and all performance tasks demonstrated unprompted