Book 1

Concrete results from a careful mixture of portland cement paste and aggregates such as sand, gravel, crushed stone, and other materials. A chemical reaction called hydration causes the mixture to harden into the rock-like mass we know as concrete. When it is first mixed, concrete is soft and malleable, but when it hardens it is […]

Cement masons are not only expected to be able to use these tools correctly, but also to be able to perform routinemaintenance. This is especially important since the environment where these machines are used can be dusty, hot, cold, or muddy. In order to provide proper maintenance, it is important tohave a basic understanding of

Working with concrete often requires repetitive motions with special tools. This repetition can cause injuries, resulting in conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Many hand tool manufacturers are now modifying tool designs to be ergonomic, fitting the shape of the body with minimal discomfort and fatigue. Read Book 1 / Unit 12  Review “Words You

Concrete work requires the use of forming tools. They include some hand tools, circular saws, measuring tools, and leveling instruments. Using forming tools properly and safely requires practice. This unit introduces you to basic forming tools and how to use them. Read Book 1 / Unit 11  Review “Words You Should Know”  Watch the video

Almost every workplace can contain hazards and unsafe conditions. People can also do things in a way that can lead to injury and even death. Every year, millions of people suffer nonfatal workplace injuries. Thousands of people in the United States die every year from injuries suffered on the job. Workplace accidents can range from

Cement is one ingredient in concrete. How the cement is made is important. The manufacturing process must be carefully controlled to produce a cement that has required chemical and physical characteristics. This process can be broken down into five basic stages. Read Book 1 / Unit 2  Review “Words You Should Know”  Watch the video

Concrete is the most widely used building material in the world. It is used in virtually every structure built today. Cement masons can find jobs with concrete contractors or general contractors. They are involved with form building, concrete finishing, concrete repair, installing base, installing terrazzo, and installing decorative or architecturally-designed floors. Some are employed with companies

Concrete is the most widely used building material in the world. It is used in virtually every structure built today. Cement masons can find jobs with concrete contractors or general contractors. They are involved with form building, concrete finishing, concrete repair, installing base, installing terrazzo, and installing decorative or architecturally-designed floors. Some are employed with companies

Building plans consist of drawings and writing material needed to communicate information of the construction process. This information must be presented in a consistent and reliable form so as to serve people involved in all aspects of building construction. Read Book 1 / Unit 6  Review “Words You Should Know”  Watch the video below and

Proper planning prior to starting a concrete job will help prevent wasted materials and effort. There are several ways you can estimate the cubic yards of concrete needed for a job, the number of rolls of welded wire fabric, the lineal feet of form lumber, and the number of form stakes needed for a job. These estimates