Red Seal Bricklayer Practice Exam

What type of cement is typically used in masonry work?

1. High-early strength cement

2. Portland cement

3. Fly ash cement

4. Air-entrained cement

The correct answer is: Portland cement

Portland cement is the most common type of cement used in masonry work. It serves as a key ingredient in mortar, which binds bricks and blocks together, as well as in concrete mixtures used for various structural applications. The properties of Portland cement provide good strength, durability, and workability, making it an ideal choice for both load-bearing walls and decorative masonry. Portland cement is made by heating limestone and other materials in a kiln, leading to a product that can be mixed with water and aggregates to create strong bonds in masonry applications. Its widespread availability and proven performance in diverse environmental conditions further establish its role as the standard choice for masons. While high-early strength cement is used to achieve rapid strength gains and may be beneficial in specific scenarios, it is not as universally applicable as Portland cement. Fly ash cement, on the other hand, integrates fly ash as a supplementary material in Portland cement to improve certain characteristics but is not the primary choice for all masonry applications. Air-entrained cement is designed to improve resistance to freeze-thaw cycles but is not the main type recommended for typical masonry work.