Masonry Basics: Spreading Mortar

What is the primary tool discussed for spreading mortar?

• Hammer

• Brush

• Trowel

• Spatula

What is the part of the trowel called where the handle meets the blade?

• Shank

• Frog

• Ferrule

• Heel

What should be sprinkled in the mortar pan before adding mortar?

• Cement

• Sand

• Water

• Oil

How can you test if the mortar has a good consistency?

• By measuring its weight

• By checking its color

• By snapping the trowel

• By letting it dry

What indicates that mortar is of good workable consistency?

• It hardens quickly

• It changes color

• It falls off the trowel easily

• It sticks to the trowel when snapped

What method is used to pick up mortar with the trowel?

• The loaf method

• The pull method

• The push method

• The snap method

How much mortar should be applied to the top of each block?

• Two trowels full per block

• One trowel full per 16 inches

• As much as needed

• One trowel full per 12 inches

What is the recommended amount of mortar for the inside face of the wall?

• Half a trowel per block

• One trowel full per block

• Two trowels full per block

• As needed, no specific amount

What is the correct way to apply mortar to the head joint of a block?

• In a zigzag pattern

• In a circular motion

• From heel to toe of the trowel

• From toe to heel of the trowel

How should mortar be applied to a sash block?

• From bottom to top

• From top to bottom

• Smearing on the block first

• In a single motion