A vertical mortar joint is known as a _______?

A vertical mortar joint is referred to as a head joint. This terminology is specifically used in masonry to identify the joint that occurs at the top of a masonry unit, such as a brick or block. The head joint is typically shorter than the bed joint, which is the horizontal joint found between the courses of masonry units.

In contrast, the bed joint runs horizontally and is crucial for proper stacking and structural support. Control joints and expansion joints are different types of joints used in constructions to manage movement and prevent cracking, often in concrete structures, rather than in masonry wall construction. Understanding these terms is essential for anyone working in building and construction as they lay the foundation for proper masonry techniques and structural integrity.