Algonquin College’s unique Masonry – Heritage & Traditional program teaches the theories behind proper masonry construction, based on a solid understanding of the Ontario Building Code, construction safety standards, measuring and testing methods, proper bonding methods, and construction estimation.
- Ontario College Diploma
- 45 Week(s)
- Program Code:
- 0746X04FPT
- Academic Year:
- 2011/2012
Our Program
This unique Ontario College Diploma program provides an introduction to the many areas of the masonry industry, from new residential and commercial construction to the demanding field of heritage restoration.Offered in one full year (45 weeks), the program begins in the fall, continues through the winter and spring and ends in late summer. The workload is challenging with an equal balance of theoretical lectures and hands-on practical instruction. Students learn the theories behind proper masonry construction including a solid understanding of the Ontario Building Code, construction safety standards, measuring and testing methods, proper bonding methods and an introduction to construction estimation. Practical projects in brick, block, manufactured units, traditional stonemasonry, and restoration techniques are practised in a shop environment and in field work projects.
Students gain insight into Canadian architectural history, drafting and blueprint reading, construction mathematics, and the concepts of structural support and building envelope theory. In addition, students learn restoration concepts, such as accepted conservation principles, inspecting and recording, deducing problems and determining repair schedules. Organized field trips to masonry jobsites, conservation projects, quarries, and other key locations expose students to current industry practices and traditional methods. Shop projects include veneer and composite wall systems, arch design and construction, fireplace and chimney construction, rubble stone construction, setting out and cutting traditional stone mouldings, contemporary stonemasonry and traditional dry stone walling. Sympathetic restoration repairs are practised, such as patching, pinning, Dutchman repairs, repointing and stone replacement.
Students receive a total of approximately 29 hours of instruction per week comprised of in-class and in-shop sessions.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Are curious, well-organized and have an analytical nature.
- Work effectively both independently and as a member of a team.
- Enjoy both theoretical and hands-on learning environments.
- Are physically fit.
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Your Career
Successful graduates of this program gain a range of problem-solving and practical skills that may qualify them to seek entry-level employment in all areas of masonry construction and restoration. The craft of masonry is traditionally a life-long learning process and graduates are encouraged to enter an apprenticeship with a recognized journeyperson or licensed and experienced masonry company. With appropriate work experience, graduates of this program are eligible to seek entry-level work in the following exciting fields: apprentice and journeyman bricklayer, stonemason, stonecutter, restoration mason, masonry foreman, masonry conservator, masonryspecification, fireplace and heater mason, refractory mason and landscape mason.
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Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with online learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.| Level: 01 | Hours | |
| ARC9005 | Canadian Architectural Conservation To Canadians, preserving our heritage resources is a visible sign of community pride and environmental responsibility. Protecting heritage buildings requires an understanding of their histories and the principles of conservation shared by the preservation community. This course traces the study of building styles and traditional building techniques as they have evolved across the Canadian landscape. | 45.0 |
| CON9110 | Construction Techniques This course provides a study of construction methods and materials for site work and foundations. Students perform basic surveying to establish/verify grades and locate building hubs using a transit-level. Students construct batter boards and formwork for footings. This course familiarizes students with the Ontario Building Code as it applies to foundations, footings, framing and other components of construction. Co-requisites: SAF9100 | 45.0 |
| DRA9202 | Drafting Drafting is an essential communication tool in the building industry. Students acquire competency in the basics of drafting for the trades. Topics include: freehand sketching; drafting instruments; materials and their use; lettering; axonometric, isometric, oblique and orthographic drawings and shop drawings. An introduction to computer assisted drafting reinforces students' skills in pictorial and orthographic drawings. | 30.0 |
| ENL9212 | Communications I Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments. | 45.0 |
| MAS9007 | Masonry Fundamentals I This course introduces the tools and basic techniques used in masonry construction. Practical exercises include mixing mortar and laying masonry units. Trowel skills in bricklaying, block work, and reinforcement are applied to individual and group projects. Theoretical studies in estimation, coursing, bonding, and rendering are reinforced through practical applications requiring the use of hand tools, and masonry saws and mixers. This course introduces the Ontario Building Code as it applies to best practices in residential and commercial construction. Co-requisites: MAT9201 and SAF9100 | 165.0 |
| MAT9201 | Mathematics for the Trades I The fundamentals of trade calculations are the focus of this course. With the application of course content to masonry, concepts include: imperial measurement, fundamentals of perimeter, area and volume measurement; a review of basic algebra; principles of ratio and proportion and elements of basic trigonometry. Students are encouraged to develop the problem-solving skills necessary for success in the trades during lecture presentations, individualized instruction, assignments and scheduled unit reviews. | 30.0 |
| SAF9100 | Construction Safety This course prepares students to work safely in workshops and on construction sites. Students learn safe practices when operating equipment and identify appropriate personal protective equipment. Students locate and apply regulations from the Occupational Health and Safety Act involving ladders, scaffolds and all significant aspects of safety in the workplace. Successful students receive certification in Fall Arrest and WHMIS in accordance with the Construction Safety Association of Ontario. | 30.0 |
| Level: 02 | Hours | |
| BSC9010 | Restoration Methods I Despite their longevity, older masonry buildings and monuments inevitably show symptoms of age and neglect. This course allows students to recognize structural and envelope deficiencies through inspection reporting. Applying accepted conservation principles, students trace symptoms to origins and discuss remedies. Prerequisites: ARC9005 and DRA9202 and MAS9007 and SAF9100 Co-requisites: BSC9111 and DRA9203 | 30.0 |
| BSC9100 | Housing, Energy and the Environment In this general education course, students examine the impact of the renovation/restoration industry on the environment. This includes a study of the principles and techniques of energy-efficient renovation, appropriate energy conservation methods for historic buildings, the improvement of indoor air quality, and the selection of environmentally-responsible construction products and practices. | 45.0 |
| BSC9111 | Structural Masonry Buildings are designed to withstand stresses from a variety of sources by transferring these loads to their foundations and soils below. This course examines the different loads that a building might experience and investigates the philosophies and methods employed to successfully share and transfer these loads. By looking at examples of new construction and classic architecture, this course analyzes the theories of structural masonry. Using a variety of lectures and exercises, the limitations, and capabilities of masonry are illustrated and compared. Prerequisites: MAS9007 and MAT9201 Co-requisites: BSC9010 | 30.0 |
| DRA9203 | Blueprint Reading This course provides students with instruction in reading and interpreting residential building codes, specifications and blueprints. Topics include finding required information in codes and specifications; verifying material sizes and grades from tables; and reading plans, elevations, sections, details, schedules and notes. Students draft architectural drawings, including foundation and floor plans, using computer software. Elevations and wall sections are drawn using standard drafting practices. The process of drawing, reading and interpreting architectural plans teaches students accurate ways of estimating and scheduling jobs. Prerequisites: DRA9202 | 30.0 |
| MAS9220 | Masonry Fundamentals II Students are challenged with more complex masonry projects. Integrated wall systems and decorative features are constructed as individual and group projects. Key masonry features, such as openings, lintels, arches and sills are applied to structures, in accordance with the Ontario Building Code, which is extensively referenced in the course. Arch design, formwork and construction, glass block installation and other structural masonry components are also discussed. Prerequisites: DRA9202 and MAS9007 and MAT9201 and SAF9100 Co-requisites: MAT9222 | 105.0 |
| MAS9222 | Traditional Construction Methods This course focuses on the science, philosophical theory and practical construction of two distinct areas of masonry construction. In unit one (Fireplace and Chimney Construction), the physics related to the efficient performance of fireplaces and masonry heaters are examined. Fireplace types are discussed, focusing on layout and function, as well as construction techniques, materials and hardware. Chimney construction and function, as well as flashings, are examined, from both residential and industrial applications. The installation of refractory liners is explored from an industrial perspective. In unit two students learn the philosophies and best building practices of traditional and contemporary stonemasonry construction. Through lectures, shop projects and field trips, students learn the geology and classification of building stone, traditional bonding rules, and the installation of natural and manufactured stone products. Students cut and square rubble stone using manual techniques and lay natural stone walls complete with traditional jointing methods. Prerequisites: DRA9202 and MAS9007 and MAT9201 and SAF9100 | 105.0 |
| MAT9222 | Masonry Geometry With particular emphasis on practical application, students expand on the fundamentals of calculations and explore the relevance of construction geometry as it pertains to the specialties of masonry. Geometric layouts for triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, circles and ellipses comprise much of the content for this hands-on course. Projects include setting out and calculating geometry specific to masonry arches, mouldings and other applications. Students are encouraged in their learning through lectures, and group and individual assignments. Prerequisites: MAT9201 | 45.0 |
| Choose one from equivalencies: | Hours | |
| GED0746 | General Education Elective Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: DSN2001 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or FIN2300 or GED5200 or GED5300 or GEN1001 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2003 or GEN2007 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LFS9178 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI1702 or RAD2001 or SOC2003 or GED6022 or GED5005 or GED5002 or GED5006 or GED5004 or ENL7643 or GED1896 or GED5009 or PSI0003 | 45.0 |
| Level: 03 | Hours | |
| BSC9110 | Mortar Science Through a variety of current investigative techniques, including basic mortar analysis and standard testing techniques, this lab-style course studies the component parts of contemporary and traditional mortars and their respective physical, chemical and functional characteristics. The examination of such binder components as the various cements and limes and their hydraulic properties, and the role of aggregates and water, is the key to understanding and, replicating traditional mortars while maximizing durability and insuring compatibility with the masonry units. Activities include identifying and comparing mixes and aggregates, burning limestone and slaking quicklime, and philosophical debate of mortars and their applications. Prerequisites: BSC9010 and MAS9007 and MAS9220 and SAF9100 | 45.0 |
| BSC9330 | Conservation Planning Masonry conservation projects require strategic planning in order to meet the goals set out by stakeholders. This course further explores structural restoration practices and repair methods, and bridges the gap between conservation philosophy and current restoration techniques. Project management is examined including the roles and responsibilities of conservation professionals, schedules, material, and labour coordination and contracts. During this course, the final two-week field work project is carefully planned and scheduled. Prerequisites: BSC9010 and BSC9111 and DRA9203 and SAF9100 Co-requisites: BSC9110 and LFS9201 | 30.0 |
| ENL9202 | Communications II Course content includes writing instructions and writing for publication, creating relevant job-search correspondence and career portfolios, writing various informal reports to suit a specified purpose and writing and presenting a formal research report on a program related topic. Prerequisites: ENL9212 | 45.0 |
| LFS9201 | Field Work Students apply skills generated from all previous theory and practical courses towards an actual restoration project. Students keep a daily logbook and practise onsite restoration and construction techniques which were carefully planned and estimated in preceding courses. Prerequisites: BSC9110 and DRA9203 and MAS9015 and MAS9330 and SAF9100 Co-requisites: BSC9330 | 44.0 |
| MAS9015 | Stonemasonry Techniques This course delves further into advanced stone cutting and setting practices. Techniques in rubble wall construction are applied, focusing on traditional bonds. Also, setting stonework, including ashlar, rubble stone, architectural stone and carved elements, are practised. In addition, raised and traditional mortar joint finishes are applied using a variety of techniques. Traditional drystone walling and flagstone are also taught. Other topics include hoisting techniques, stone sawing, fastening methods and stone panels. Prerequisites: MAS9220 and MAS9222 and SAF9100 | 156.0 |
| MAS9330 | Stonecutting and Restoration Techniques Older masonry buildings are constructed of a variety of brick, terracotta, stone and cast components that require specialized reproduction and repair techniques. This course examines the philosophy and practical application of accepted masonry restoration techniques, such as repointing and grouting, recording and unit replacement, patching, pinning, Dutchman repairs and cleaning. In addition, the precise craft of stonecutting is practised, from understanding the geometry of traditional shapes, to setting out templates and cutting out mouldings from stone blocks, allowing students to reproduce stone details. Also, students develop chisel skills to re-create typical ashlar dressings that highlight our most cherished buildings. Prerequisites: MAS9222 and MAT9222 and SAF9100 Co-requisites: BSC9330 | 156.0 |
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Fees & Expenses
Approximate 1st Year CostsTuition/Fees: $ 5,822
Books/Supplies: $ 3,000
Incidental Fees: $ 70
Total: $ 8,892
Tuition Fees listed are in effect for the 2011-2012 academic year.
Tuition Fees: $1,612.40 per term.
Information Technology Fee: $62 per term. *
Incidental Fees: $70 in Level 03.
Student Activity/Sports Fee: $190.50 per term.
Student Centre Building Fee: $17.50 per term.
Health Plan Fee: $114.50 paid once annually. **
A $35 graduation fee is payable in the final term.
A $25 transcript fee is payable in the first term a student attends Algonquin College.
International Students pay all relevant Canadian fees plus an International Premium of $4,400 per term.
* Students paying the Information Technology fee are provided with a network account, an email address, and Internet access. For more information please visit our website at www.algonquincollege.com/its/services/it_fee.htm
** Students who have coverage with another plan can request a refund by supplying the Students' Association with documentation supporting the
request. This request will have to be made annually.
Books, tools, and safety equipment cost approximately $3,020 and are required throughout the program. Books are available for purchase at the campus bookstore. Students must supply some items while other items are available for purchase as three seperate tool kits through the campus bookstore. Students are required to supply their own safety equipment, as well as a
standard/metric tape measure, 2' level, 4' level, utility knife and carpentry pencils. Safety equipment includes safety boots, class E hard hat, respirator (P100 or N95), safety glasses, muff-type hearing protection and coveralls (knee pads are also recommended). Kits available for purchase at the school are as follows: Semester 1- Drafting Kit, Bricklayer's Tool Kit (21-piece), Semester 2 - Stonemason Tool Kit (12 piece), Semester 3 - Restoration Mason Tool Kit (10 piece). All kits include quality contractor-grade tools that students keep following the program (or following each level
attempted/completed).
Students are required to provide or arrange transportation to and from the field work component of the program. The field work occurs in the final two weeks of the program (early to mid August). Students should expect a distance of 60 km one way from the campus to travel to the field work. Students are encouraged to car-pool to the field work.
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Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their
eligibility for admission; OR - Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $40 (subject to change) will be charged.
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.
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Application Information
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should contact their Guidance Office to apply. For all other applicants, applications are available online at ontariocolleges.ca. A $95 fee applies.
Applications for Fall Term, Winter Term and Spring Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the
International Student Application Form at
https://xweb.algonquincollege.com/FormIE/index.aspx or by contacting the Registrar's Office.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar's Office
Algonquin College
Heritage Institute
7 Craig Street
Perth, ON K7H 1X7
Telephone: 613-267-2859
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
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Additional Information
Part-time students are considered based on availability and previousexperience in the masonry trade and/or satisfactory completion of prerequisite courses. This program complements provincial apprenticeship programs - it is not an alternative approach to achieving journeyman status. For example, in Ontario, an apprentice must complete 5,600 hours working alongside a qualified mason and prove competency in all areas of masonry and complete a schooling component. The program provides an introduction to the tools and best
practices in these areas, providing a snapshot of the industry as a whole. This allows a person entering the trade to sample these specialties and gain a wide range of skills and knowledge.
The Perth Campus is an elearning environment; to ensure your success as a student, we recommend that you bring a current laptop computer to support your studies.
For more information, please contact Rod Bain, Program Coordinator, at 613-267-2859 ext. 5623 or bainr@algonquincollege.com.
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Awards & Bursaries
The Tyler Page Generosity Of Spirit Bursary Award is awarded to two students in the Masonry - Heritage and Traditional program, who have demonstrated financial need, have a minimum \'B\' average, have completed at least one semester, and demonstrate a \"generosity of spirit\".
The Marshall Stevenson Scholarship Bursary is awarded annually to a student in the Carpentry and Millwork- Heritage program, who is entering his/her final year level, is in financial need, had good academic standing and attendance, and demonstrates cooperation and helpfulness with others.
The Ed Ireland Masonry Bursary is awarded to a student going into the 2nd semester of the Heritage Masonry program, who can demonstrate financial need.
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