Title: Apply block head joints.
Course: Building Trades I (17009-I) > Section: Masonry: Laying Concrete Masonry Units

Application of mortar should include

- spreading it on both sides of one end of the block
- maintaining a uniform thickness to form a 3/8-inch head joint.

IRC: Chapters 4 (https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2018/chapter-4-foundations) and 6 (https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2018/chapter-6-wall-construction) explain how to ensure mortar strength and joint applications comply with building codes, as related to various masonry products.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What is a head joint, and what function does it serve?
- How wide should a head joint be?

NCCER Standards:

Core Curriculum: Introductory Craft Skills

  - 00101-04 Basic Safety

Masonry: Level One (L1NCCT28)

- 28105-04 Masonry Units and Installation Techniques