21 Questions
What is the primary benefit of masonry components?
Durability and resistance to weather, fire, and insects
What is a common drawback of masonry construction?
Long-term deterioration of mortar joints
What is the primary function of mortar in masonry construction?
To bond individual masonry units into a solid mass
Three courses of brick plus intervening mortar joints equals what height for most brick sizes?
8 inches
What is the most common concrete masonry unit?
Concrete blocks
How can the use of master streams weaken mortar in masonry construction?
From the pressure of the stream or flushing effect of water
What is the term for a single vertical column of masonry units in a wall?
Wythe
In masonry construction, what does a stretcher course refer to?
Bricks placed end to end
Which type of masonry unit placement involves bricks placed with ends facing out?
Header course
What is the primary purpose of reinforcing masonry walls?
To support the weight of a taller building or provide stability against lateral forces
What is the function of a cavity wall in masonry construction?
Prevents water seepage through mortar joints to interior of building
What is the purpose of a fire cut in wood joisted masonry construction?
Allows the beam to fall away freely from the wall in case of beam failure
What is the most common support for masonry over an opening?
Lintels
What is the primary function of a parapet in masonry or steel wall construction?
Aesthetic improvement
What weight is a lintel beam required to support in masonry construction?
Only the weight of a triangular section immediately above
What can cause parapets on the front of buildings to lose structural integrity during fire operations?
All of the above
What contributes to the collapse of masonry walls when interior wood framing fails?
Collapsing interior floor or roof members exerting horizontal forces on walls
Why are the corners of the building, stairwells, and elevator shafts considered the strongest points in a masonry structure?
Intersecting masonry walls support and reinforce each other
What is the primary purpose of steel tie rods in masonry construction?
To stabilize the structure under normal conditions
What should firefighters be more concerned with regarding tie rods in masonry construction?
Tie rods used to repair a wall rather than ones apart of original construction
What are some causes of deterioration in masonry walls?
Erosion of the mortar or reinforcing steel due to exposure to elements like freeze/thaw cycle
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