Brickmasons and Blockmasons duties vary depending on whether they specialize in residential or commercial buildings. Most Brickmasons specialize in residential work while Blockmasons stick to commercial buildings.
Depending on the job they take, they would be responsible for the construction of stone or brick structures, patios, walkways, fireplaces, and decorative trim. While on the job, they will have to follow detailed blueprints, ensure perfect measurements, mix mortar, break or cut stone, and repair or replace old mortar to ensure the security of the structure.
What Does the Workday of a Brickmason Look Like?
Because Brickmasons work with bricks and other heavy stones, the day is very physically demanding. They must be able to stand, kneel, and bend for long periods of time. Most masons work independently on smaller projects like fireplaces, patios, stone walls and fences. Work can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the scope of the project. While many are self-employed they still have to adhere to the builders schedule to ensure that their work is completed in a timely manner.
Before entering the field, we recommend making sure you are suited for a career in mason work. It is important to keep in mind that stone and brick masons have very physically demanding jobs as they lift heavy materials and concrete blocks all day long. Masons must be able to lift heavy brick and stone, operate heavy machinery, and have great hand-eye coordination to make sure the materials are meticulously leveled.
How to Become a Brickmason and Blockmason in 2022?
While Brickmason and Blockmasons need to have graduated high school they aren’t required to attend a four-year university instead they will acquire on-the-job training or attend technical colleges. If you would rather skip school altogether, we recommend you apply for an apprenticeship program where you learn the skills of the trade through experienced masons. If you choose this route expect to be an apprentice for anywhere from 3-4 years. While in their apprenticeship program, a mason must complete 144 hours of instruction and 2,000 hours of paid training. This training will allow them to understand working with blueprints, learn safety procedures and regulations, prepare construction sites, and help in the construction of buildings.
What is a Brickmasons Salary?
According to BLS, the median annual wage for brickmasons in 2021 was around $61,430 with an employment rise of 3.2%. The median hourly wage is $28.53 which earns an annual wage of $59,340. While this number will fluctuate depending on where you live and if you run your own business or work for someone else. States with the highest level of Brickmason and Blockmason employment are New York City, Florida, Texas, Illinois, and California.