27404 Advanced Wall Systems

NCCER Advanced Wall Systems (Module 27404)

Course Information

• Module ID: 27404 (Carpentry Level 4)
• Course Title: Advanced Wall Systems
• Duration: 25 Hours (typically delivered over several sessions, combining classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and performance evaluations)
• Prerequisites: Successful completion of NCCER Carpentry Levels 1–3 (or equivalent experience in basic framing, roofing, and wall systems)
• Credits: This module contributes toward NCCER Carpentry Level 4 certification and is registered in the NCCER National Registry upon successful completion.
• Required Materials:
  • NCCER Carpentry Level 4 Trainee Guide (latest edition, ISBN varies by year; e.g., 978-0-13-378704-7 for recent versions)
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE): hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, work boots, fall protection harness (as applicable)
  • Basic carpentry tools: tape measure, level, hammer, utility knife, chalk line, etc.
  • Access to job-site simulations or mock-ups for hands-on practice (curtain wall sections, masonry units, etc.)

Course Description

This module introduces advanced techniques for installing specialized wall systems in commercial and residential construction. Trainees learn to install a variety of finishing materials, including concrete masonry units (CMU) and brick veneer. The course also covers curtain walls, insulated wall systems, fire-rated assemblies, and related safety practices in commercial construction environments.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:

• Identify and mitigate safety hazards associated with installing advanced wall systems, including fall protection requirements.
• Describe the components, types, and installation procedures for curtain walls.
• Explain and demonstrate the installation of insulated wall systems (e.g., structural insulated panels or similar).
• Install masonry finishing materials, such as concrete masonry units and brick veneer, including proper anchoring, flashing, and air spaces.
• Construct and detail fire-rated wall assemblies for commercial applications.
• Interpret construction drawings and specifications for advanced wall installations.
• Perform quality checks and ensure compliance with building codes and industry standards.

Topical Outline

The module is structured around the following key topics (approximate time allocation):

1. Introduction and Safety (5 hours)
   • Review of hazards in advanced wall installation (fall protection, heavy materials handling, scaffolding).
   • OSHA guidelines and site-specific safety protocols.
2. Curtain Walls and Exterior Systems (6 hours)
   • Types of curtain walls (stick-built, unitized).
   • Components, anchoring, and sealing.
   • Installation procedures and weatherproofing.
3. Insulated and Specialty Wall Systems (5 hours)
   • Structural insulated panels (SIPs) and other energy-efficient systems.
   • Benefits, handling, and integration with framing.
4. Masonry Finishes: CMU and Brick (6 hours)
   • Layout, bonding patterns, and reinforcement.
   • Installation of veneer, ties, flashing, and weep holes.
   • Air space requirements and moisture control.
5. Fire-Rated and Commercial Wall Construction (3 hours)
   • Fire-rated assemblies and penetration protection.
   • Code requirements for commercial buildings.
6. Review, Performance Testing, and Assessment (included throughout)
   • Hands-on practice and verification.

Teaching Methods

• Classroom lectures and discussions using NCCER curriculum materials.
• Multimedia presentations (videos, diagrams from Trainee Guide).
• Hands-on laboratory exercises and simulated job-site tasks.
• Group activities for layout and installation practice.

Assessment and Evaluation

• Written Examination: Multiple-choice test covering module objectives (70% passing score required for NCCER registry credit).
• Performance Evaluations: Trainees must demonstrate competency in key tasks under instructor supervision, including:
  • Safe installation of curtain wall sections or mock-ups.
  • Proper placement and finishing of masonry units.
  • Assembly of fire-rated or insulated wall components.
• Grading: Pass/Fail based on NCCER standards (successful completion requires passing both written and performance components).
• Certification: Upon passing, trainees earn the NCCER Advanced Wall Systems credential (Module 27404), portable and recognized industry-wide.

Policies

• Attendance: Full attendance is required for hands-on portions; absences may require make-up sessions.
• Safety: Zero tolerance for safety violations; improper PPE or unsafe practices result in removal from lab activities.
• Accommodations: Available upon request for qualified individuals.

This syllabus aligns with the latest NCCER Carpentry curriculum standards for Module 27404. Instructors should reference the official Trainee and Instructor Guides for the most current edition-specific details.