Licensing Examination Practice

Illinois General Masonry Contractor Licensing Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is the primary ingredient in mortar?

a) Sand

b) Lime

c) Cement

d) Gravel

Rationale: Cement is the main binding ingredient in mortar,

providing strength and durability.

2. The proper water-to-cement ratio in concrete affects:

a) Only workability

b) Both strength and workability 1 / 4

c) Only strength

d) Only curing time

Rationale: Water-to-cement ratio directly influences concrete

strength and its workability.

• Which of the following is a common type of masonry wall?

a) Curtain wall

b) Load-bearing wall

c) Partition wall

d) Glass wall

Rationale: Load-bearing walls support structural loads in masonry

construction, unlike partition or curtain walls.

• What is the minimum compressive strength of concrete for exterior

masonry walls in Illinois?

• 1500 psi
• 2000 psi
• 2500 psi
• 3000 psi

Rationale: Illinois building codes typically require at least 2500 psi

concrete for exterior masonry walls.

5. Efflorescence on a masonry wall is caused by:

a) Rusting of steel reinforcement

b) Fungal growth

c) Water-soluble salts migrating to the surface 2 / 4

d) Paint failure

Rationale: Efflorescence occurs when salts in masonry are carried to

the surface by water, leaving a white residue.

• Which of the following tools is used to level bricks?

a) Chisel

b) Trowel

c) Mason’s level

d) Masonry hammer

Rationale: A mason’s level ensures bricks are laid evenly and aligned

properly.

• What is the primary purpose of a masonry expansion joint?

a) Strengthen the wall

b) Enhance aesthetics

c) Allow for thermal movement

d) Prevent water penetration

Rationale: Expansion joints accommodate thermal expansion and

contraction, preventing cracking.

8. In reinforced masonry, steel reinforcement is placed in:

a) Only exterior walls

b) Only columns

c) Both walls and columns where required

d) Only foundations 3 / 4

Rationale: Steel reinforcement is required in various locations to

resist tensile stresses in masonry construction.

9. The curing period for standard concrete is typically:

• 1–2 days
• 3–4 days
• 7 days minimum, ideally 28 days
• 90 days

Rationale: Concrete reaches most of its strength within 28 days,

though initial curing begins in the first 7 days.

• Which mortar type is most suitable for general-purpose

brickwork?

a) Type M

b) Type N

c) Type S

d) Type O

Rationale: Type N mortar provides a good balance of strength and

workability for above-grade, general-purpose brickwork.

11. The main function of flashing in masonry walls is to:

a) Provide thermal insulation

b) Strengthen the wall

c) Direct water out of the wall assembly

d) Prevent cracking

• / 4