Cavity Wall

Term from Masonry industry explained for recruiters

A cavity wall is a common construction technique where two walls are built parallel to each other with a space (cavity) between them. Think of it like a sandwich - there's an outer wall, a gap in the middle, and an inner wall. This design helps keep buildings dry and well-insulated. When people mention cavity walls in their resumes, they're usually talking about their experience building or maintaining these specialized wall systems. It's a fundamental skill in masonry and construction work, especially in residential and commercial buildings. Other terms you might see for this include "double-wall construction" or "hollow wall construction."

Examples in Resumes

Installed insulation in Cavity Wall systems for 200+ residential properties

Supervised Cavity Wall construction for multiple commercial buildings

Performed maintenance and repairs on Cavity Wall structures including tie replacement

Typical job title: "Masons"

Also try searching for:

Bricklayer Mason Construction Worker Cavity Wall Installer Masonry Contractor Building Envelope Specialist Insulation Installer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle quality control on a large cavity wall project?

Expected Answer: A senior mason should discuss inspection procedures, ensuring proper spacing, checking wall ties, managing moisture control, and coordinating with other trades. They should mention supervising teams and maintaining construction standards.

Q: What considerations do you take when planning cavity wall construction in different climate zones?

Expected Answer: Should explain how weather conditions affect cavity wall design, insulation requirements, moisture management, and material choices. Should demonstrate knowledge of local building codes and best practices.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the common problems you might encounter with cavity walls and how do you address them?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify issues like damaged wall ties, blocked cavities, or moisture problems, and explain proper repair procedures and preventive measures.

Q: How do you ensure proper insulation installation in cavity walls?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of installing different types of insulation, maintaining proper air gaps, and preventing thermal bridges.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of wall ties in cavity wall construction?

Expected Answer: Should explain that wall ties connect the inner and outer walls while maintaining the cavity space, and understand basic spacing requirements.

Q: What basic tools are needed for cavity wall construction?

Expected Answer: Should list essential masonry tools like levels, trowels, line blocks, and spacing guides, and explain their basic use in cavity wall construction.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic brick and block laying
  • Understanding of wall ties and spacing
  • Basic tool operation
  • Following safety procedures

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Installing insulation and moisture barriers
  • Reading construction plans
  • Problem identification and repair
  • Understanding building codes

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project planning and supervision
  • Quality control management
  • Advanced troubleshooting
  • Team leadership and training

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of proper wall tie spacing
  • Unfamiliarity with moisture control methods
  • Lack of safety certification or awareness
  • No experience with building codes and regulations