Brickmason/Stonemason
Brickmasons and stonemasons are skilled tradespeople who specialize in constructing and repairing structures using materials such as brick, stone, and concrete blocks. Their work encompasses a variety of projects, from small stone paths to large buildings, and involves tasks like cutting materials, preparing construction sites, and assembling aesthetically pleasing structures that meet client specifications. This occupation requires a high level of physical stamina, as masons often work outdoors in various weather conditions and must lift heavy materials.
Typically, brickmasons and stonemasons consult with clients and contractors to understand project requirements and budget constraints, which informs their planning and execution. A significant aspect of their role includes adhering to safety regulations, using personal protective equipment, and utilizing specialized tools like mortar mixers and power saws. Most masons operate on a project basis and often set their own schedules, particularly if self-employed.
To enter this field, individuals generally need a high school diploma, followed by moderate-term on-the-job training, often gained through apprenticeships. Educational background in industrial arts, mathematics, and communication is beneficial for aspiring masons. Despite a projected decline in employment opportunities, the demand for skilled masonry work remains, offering pathways for self-employment and entrepreneurship within the construction industry.
Brickmason/Stonemason
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Architecture & Construction
Interests: Construction, architecture, design, working with your hands
Earnings (Yearly Median): $53,010 per year $25.49 per hour
Employment & Outlook: -3% (Decline)
Entry-Level Education High school diploma
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job Training Moderate-term on-the-job training; apprenticeships
Overview
Sphere of Work. Brickmasons and stonemasons use brick, natural stone, concrete blocks, mortar, and other materials to build structures such as fireplaces, chimneys, walls, and walkways. They may work on small projects such as stone paths or on large office buildings. Masons cut the necessary stones or bricks, lay out the planned designs, prepare the site for construction, and assemble a structure that is visually appealing and meets the needs of the client. They may also perform repairs or reconstruction on preexisting brickwork.
Work Environment. Stonemasons and brickmasons typically work at project sites with strict safety protocols, including personal protective equipment, mandatory hard hats, and equipment checks. They spend the majority of their day outdoors in all types of weather conditions. The work of stonemasons and brickmasons is physically demanding, requiring them to be on their feet for extended periods of time and lift heavy materials such as brick and stone. There is also a danger of physical injury due to this heavy lifting, cuts from sharp tools and stone fragments, and falls from scaffolding. Stonemasons typically work a forty-hour week, although those hours may vary based on the type of job performed, the weather, and other factors.
Occupation Interest. Brickmasons and stonemasons should be detail-oriented, have a strong sense of spatial awareness, and enjoy working with their hands. Jobs for both stonemasons and brickmasons are plentiful. A large number of masons are self-employed or own their own businesses, which means that they set their own schedules and should, therefore, be highly organized and motivated.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Brickmasons and stonemasons consult with clients and general contractors to understand customers’ aesthetic preferences and structural needs. These consultations include reviewing project blueprints and drawings and taking into account the client’s budget for stonework. Based on this information, masons determine the type of equipment that will be needed and order the stones and other materials.
When the initial consultation is complete, brickmasons and stonemasons prepare the project site, a process that varies depending on the type of work being done. For example, a brickmason must decide whether to use poles or corner leads (complex pyramids of bricks) to mark the corners of the structure. Brickmasons and stonemasons also cut and prepare the bricks or stones that will be used, polishing or shaping them as necessary. Once the site is ready, they lay the foundation for the project with a binding material such as mortar, which is generally a combination of sand, water, and cement. The masons then stack or arrange the bricks or stones in place, using mortar to hold them together until the project is complete. Upon completion, masons cut away excess mortar and clean up the structure for final presentation to the customer.
Sewer Bricklayers (861.381-018). Sewer Bricklayers lay brick, concrete blocks or shaped tile to construct sewers and manholes.
Brick Chimney Builders (861.381-018). Brick Chimney Builders lay brick or tile to construct or repair industrial smokestacks or chimneys.
Marble Setters (861.381-030). Marble Setters cut and set marble slabs in walls or floors of buildings and repair or polish previously set slabs.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Brickmasons and stonemasons work primarily on project sites, most of which are located outdoors. They must lift heavy objects, use a variety of sharp tools, and be on their feet or knees in all types of weather during their work.
Human Environment. In addition to their clients, brickmasons and stonemasons regularly interact with architects, construction personnel, interior designers, apprentices, construction supply company representatives, and other masons.
Technological Environment. Brickmasons and stonemasons use tools such as claw hammers and sledgehammers, hydraulic jacks, mortar mixers, power saws, and arc welders. Self-employed masons must also be familiar with trade-related software, such as project management systems, and basic word processing suites and programs. They must also be familiar with accounting and scheduling software, and have a firm grasp of the Internet, where they can advertise their skills.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students should study industrial arts, including carpentry and construction trades, wood shop, masonry, and similar classes. They should also study math, including geometry and algebra, for help in calculating measurements and proportions. Additionally, subjects that build communication skills are very useful, as are courses in blueprint drafting and mechanical drawing.
Postsecondary. After graduation from high school, most brickmasons and stonemasons obtain jobs as apprentices, helpers, or laborers, where they can become familiar with the type of work that goes into masonry. An apprenticeship is the best and most recognized path to becoming a mason, combining practical instruction with classroom education, and many unions and contractors sponsor three-year programs. Some technical colleges and community colleges offer courses in masonry, which can improve a candidate’s job prospects.
Related Occupations
Bibliography
"Masonry Workers." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/brickmasons-blockmasons-and-stonemasons.htm. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.
"Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023 47-2021 Brickmasons and Blockmasons." US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes472021.htm. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.