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 purpose of mortar in masonry

construction?

• To act as a decorative element
• To bind masonry units together
• To waterproof the structure
• To provide insulation
• To bind masonry units together

Rationale: Mortar is used primarily to bond individual masonry units,

such as bricks or blocks, into a cohesive wall system. 1 / 4

• Which type of masonry is most commonly used for high-strength

walls?

• Brick masonry
• Stone masonry
• Concrete block masonry
• Adobe masonry
• Concrete block masonry

Rationale: Concrete block masonry is often preferred for high-

strength walls due to its uniformity, compressive strength, and cost- effectiveness.

• What is the minimum compressive strength required for masonry

mortar in Illinois residential construction?

• 500 psi
• 750 psi
• 1,500 psi
• 2,500 psi
• 1,500 psi

Rationale: Building codes typically require masonry mortar to have a

minimum compressive strength of 1,500 psi to ensure adequate bonding and structural performance.

• Which type of joint in brickwork is preferred for water resistance?
• Concave joint
• V-joint 2 / 4

• Flush joint
• Weathered joint
• Concave joint

Rationale: Concave joints are highly resistant to water penetration

because they are tightly compressed, creating a durable seal.

• What is the main reason for weep holes in masonry walls?
• To provide ventilation
• To allow excess moisture to escape
• To reduce structural load
• To improve insulation
• To allow excess moisture to escape

Rationale: Weep holes prevent moisture buildup within the wall

cavity, reducing the risk of water damage and efflorescence.

• Which of the following materials is commonly used for reinforcement

in masonry walls?

• Aluminum
• Steel
• Plastic
• Copper
• Steel

Rationale: Steel reinforcement (rebar) is often embedded in masonry

to improve tensile strength and resist lateral forces. 3 / 4

• What is the purpose of flashing in masonry construction?
• To increase wall thickness
• To direct water away from the structure
• To provide thermal insulation
• To anchor the masonry units
• To direct water away from the structure

Rationale: Flashing is installed at openings and joints to prevent

water penetration and direct moisture away from the masonry wall.

• Which type of bond pattern alternates headers and stretchers in each

course?

• Stack bond
• Running bond
• Flemish bond
• English bond
• Flemish bond

Rationale: Flemish bond alternates headers and stretchers in each

course, providing both aesthetic appeal and structural stability.

• In concrete masonry units (CMUs), what is the primary function of

cores?

• Decorative appearance
• Reducing unit weight and allowing reinforcement
• Preventing water penetration
• Improving thermal conductivity
• / 4