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SECTION 9 - MASONRY

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of special observation for masonry is to verify that the workmanship and materials meet the minimum standards required by code, as well as the project specifications. This is particularly difficult in masonry work where so much is dependent upon the capabilities of the individual mason, as well as practices that have developed over the years and have become the custom of the trade for the particular locality. This requires experience and judgment by the inspector as well.

This objective can best be achieved by qualified special inspectors performing the following duties under the direct supervision of the materials engineering laboratory.

OBSERVATION DUTIES

A. Documents

    1. Review the approved plans and specifications with the masonry contractor and architect’s representative in a preconstruction meeting to verify level of inspection required for the particular job. This is the time to resolve any differences in local custom or practice of the mason and requirements of the code and project specifications.

B. Mill Test Reports

    1. Verify that mill test certificates for unit masonry, cement and reinforcing steel have been furnished by supplier and are acceptable to the architect/engineer.

C. Sampling of Materials

    1. Sample and verify that the following materials are delivered to laboratory for testing when required by project specifications:
      1. Concrete block or brick
      2. Aggregates and cement for mortar and grout
      3. Reinforcing steel as delivered

D. Storage of Materials

    1. Check that cement, lime, block and brick are supported on pallets and covered to protect from exposure to excessive moisture or drying.
    2. Check that aggregates for mortar and grout are stored free from contamination and in such a manner as to minimize segregation.

E. Preparation for Lay-Up

    1. Verify size and spacing of reinforcing dowels.
    2. Verify that foundation concrete is clean and prepared as required by specifications.

F. Lay-Up or Placing of Masonry Units

    1. Verify whether high lift or low lift procedures have been approved for use.
    2. Verify that cleanouts are provided for first course of each pour, if high lift method is used.
    3. Check plumb and lay-up configuration.
    4. Check moisture condition of masonry units.
    5. Verify that proper mortar ingredients and batching techniques are being used and prepare mortar compression test specimens.
    6. Check mortar time on board.
    7. Verify that head joints are the same thickness as face shells or that full head joints are used when specified.
    8. Check that mortar extrusions (fins) are cleaned off inside.
    9. Check whether joints are tooled as specified.
    10. Check required frequency of masonry wall prisms and observe construction of same.
    11. Check for ties when specified.
    12. Check horizontal reinforcing steel placing:
      1. Placed at correct course, laps as specified.
      2. Check whether laps are staggered in bond beams and corners as required.
      3. Check lintel bars over openings.
      4. Check hooks, if called for in jambs.
      5. Check ties in piers, diameter, spacing, and properly fastened.
    13. Check vertical reinforcing steel:
      1. Check bars at jambs, corners and piers, and typical wall steel.
      2. Check whether tied a top and bottom, and as required by project specifications.

G. Grouting Observations

    1. Verify that cells and starting beds are clean. Check condition with light or mirror.
    2. Check whether dowels, anchor bolts and inserts are all in place particularly at roof lines, floor lines and intersecting wall lines.
    3. Check installation of cleanout closures.
    4. Check grout mix and admixture required, etc.
    5. Check slump in accordance with the specifications.
    6. If low lift grouting, verify that maximum masonry height is in accordance with the code before grouting.
    7. Check that grout is stopped below top for keying where required.
    8. Verify mechanical vibrating during placement, and later during reconsolidation.
    9. Continuous observation is required during grouting operations.
    10. Prepare grout specimens in absorbent form, or as specified, for laboratory testing.
    11. Check that curing requirements are being followed.

H. Reports

    Submit written progress reports describing the tests and observations made and showing the action taken to correct nonconforming work. Itemize any changes authorized by architect/engineer. Report all uncorrected deviations from plans or specifications.
 
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