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The Prosperity Center
Youth Services Division
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Rockingham X-PLOSION
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Career:
Masonry - Block, Brick and Stone Masons
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Overview
Block, brick and stone masons build walls and structures
using blocks, bricks, stones, and mortar.
Block and brick masons do work that is similar to that of stone masons. They both
create attractive and durable surfaces and structures. For example, they create
walkways, floors, walls, and fireplaces. A major difference is that stone masons
work with stone rather than block or brick. They may work with natural cut
(granite or marble) or artificial stone (concrete or marble chips).
When building a wall, block, brick and stone masons read blueprints or
survey the area to see what work needs to be done. They measure distances from
points of reference. They calculate angles and use those numbers to align the
material horizontally and vertically. Block, brick and stone masons mark
guides to follow as they lay the material. Stone masons may also number the rocks
in the order that they want to use them.
Block, brick and stone masons start by laying out the foundation for the
project. They may mix sand, dirt, or powder with water to create the mortar that
holds the pieces together. Then they use a trowel to spread the mortar on
evenly. Block, brick and stone masons lay the blocks, bricks or stones on
top of the mortar and press and tap them into place. Stone masons may use
crowbars or rubber mallets to move the stones to the right location. At times
the trowel may not clear away all excess mortar so workers may use a cleaning
solution. Block, brick and stone masons usually cut material to fit with
other blocks, bricks, and stones or to create a corner. They may use hammers or
power saws to cut the material to the needed shape.
Some block, brick and stone masons fix old masonry buildings or decorative
brickwork. They may remove damaged material, such as bricks and mortar. They
also repair the cracks that form as buildings begin to settle. Some walls need
extra reinforcement. Block, brick and stone masons may add brackets or wire
clamps to anchor the stones or bricks to the wall. Once they are finished, they
may spray their work with a material that keeps the stone or brick work from
breaking down.
Block and brick masons start at the corners because they are the most difficult. Only
the most experienced block and brick masons work on the corners because time, skill,
and precision are required. Once the corners are built, less experienced block
and brick masons
fill in the wall between the corners. Hod carriers assist block and brick masons.
They bring bricks, mix mortar, and set up scaffolding.
Some block and brick masons are refractory masons. These workers specialize in
installing firebrick or refractory tile. The tiles are installed in high
temperature boilers and furnaces. These bricks are able to withstand high
temperatures. Many of these workers work in steel mills.
Stone masons may need to dig a trench to create the foundation of their project.
If they use natural rock they may carry it from the truck bed. When stones are
too big to carry, they may use a hoist or lift. Stone masons who work with
artificial stones may use molds to create them. They pour the composite material
into the mold. After the material dries, they position it along the wall and
remove the mold. They may also smooth or polish the rocks' surface to match the
other rocks.
Work
Activities
The following list of occupational tasks is specific to this
career.
- Examine blueprint or structure to see what work needs to
be done.
- Measure distance from reference points using levels or
plumb line. Mark reference guides.
- Calculate angles and determine vertical and horizontal
alignment.
- Lay out wall pattern or foundation.
- Mix mortar or grout.
- Apply and spread mortar on foundation.
- Lay and align bricks or stones following guidelines.
- Remove excess mortar with hand tools or acid.
- Break or cut material to fit.
- Fasten or fuse material to keep it from falling apart.
- Remove damaged brick or mortar or repair cracks.
- Spray material to protect against wear.
- Dig trench for foundation of project.
- Fill molds with composition-stone mixture.
- Position structure along wall and remove mold.
- Remove rock sections from truck bed. May use a hoist
when rocks are too big to lift.
- Smooth or polish rock surface.
People in this career perform the following list of tasks, but
the tasks are common to many occupations.
- Handle and move objects.
- Perform activities that use the whole body.
- Control machines and processes.
- Get information needed to do the job.
- Inspect equipment, structures, or materials.
- Monitor events, materials, and surroundings.
- Carry out ideas, programs, systems, or products.
- Identify objects, actions, and events.
- Provide information or drawings about devices,
equipment, or structures.
- Process information.
- Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials
needed.
- Judge the value of objects, services, or people.
- Analyze data or information.
Working
Conditions
In a typical work setting, people in this career:
Interpersonal Relationships
- Provide a service to customers.
- Have a low level of contact with others.
Physical Work Conditions
- Often work outdoors, unless they are installing a
fireplace or industrial furnace indoors.
- Sometimes wear kneepads, gloves, or hard hats.
- Sometimes are exposed to contaminants, such as chemical
mortar removers.
- Sometimes are exposed to hazardous equipment, such as
saws. The chance of injury is low and if injured the level of harm is
slight.
- Occasionally work in cramped areas, such as when
finishing corners.
- Sometimes are exposed to uncomfortable noise levels,
such as when sawing through bricks or stone.
- Sometimes are exposed to very hot or very cold
temperatures.
- Rarely are exposed to high places. When they use
scaffolding, they use safety measures, which keeps the likelihood of falling
low. However, if they do fall the level of injury is moderate.
Work Performance
- Must be sure that all the details of the job are
performed and everything is completed.
- Must be very exact in laying the brick or stone so that
the structure is level and has no cracks or holes.
- Repeat the same physical activities over and over.
Hours/Travel
- Usually work 40 hours a week.
- May work weekends and holidays.
- May work only during good weather, since many work
outside.
Physical
Demands
People in this career frequently:
- Use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or
controls.
- Stand for long periods of time.
- Repeat the same movements over and over.
- Kneel, stoop, crouch, or crawl.
- Bend or twist the body.
- Climb ladders and scaffolds.
- Walk or run.
It is important for people in this career to be able to:
- Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble
objects.
- Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
- Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
- Make fast, simple, repeated movements of fingers, hands,
and wrists.
- Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with the body, arms,
and/or legs.
- Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body
for long periods without getting tired.
- Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms,
two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in one place.
- Use muscles to jump, sprint, or throw objects.
- See details of objects that are less than a few feet
away.
It is not as important, but still necessary, for people in this
career to be able to:
- Move arms and legs quickly.
- Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand
steady while moving the arm.
- Quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach
out with the body, arms, and/or legs.
- Be physically active for long periods without getting
out of breath.
- Determine the distance between objects.
- Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such
as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
- Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small
objects.
- Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
- See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
- Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when
in an unstable position.
- React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
- See details of objects that are more than a few feet
away.
Skills
and Abilities
People in this career need to:
Reason and Problem Solve
- Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a
certain order.
- Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
Use Math and Science
- Use math skills to solve problems.
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and
correctly.
Manage Oneself, People, Time and Things
- Check how well one is learning or doing something.
Work with Things
- Determine the tools and equipment needed to do a job.
- Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
- Operate and control equipment.
Perceive and Visualize
- Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or
its parts are rearranged.
Knowledge
People in this career need knowledge in the following areas:
- Building and Construction: Knowledge of constructing
buildings and other structures.
- Mechanical: Knowledge of designing, using, and repairing
machines and tools.
- Mathematics: Knowledge of the rules and uses of numbers.
Areas of knowledge include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics.
Interests
People in this career are people who tend to:
- Consider achievement important. They like to see
the results of their work and to use their strongest abilities. They like to
get a feeling of accomplishment from their work.
- Consider relationships important. They like to
work in a friendly, non-competitive environment. They like to do things for
other people. They prefer jobs where they are not pressured to do things
that go against their sense of right and wrong.
- Consider good working conditions important. They
like jobs offering steady employment and good pay. They want employment that
fits their individual work style. They may prefer doing a variety of tasks,
working alone, or being busy all the time.
- Have realistic interests. They like work
activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They
like to work with plants, animals, and physical materials such as wood,
tools, and machinery. They often prefer to work outside.
Preparation
To work as a block, brick, or stone mason, you must:
have a high school diploma or GED;
complete classroom course work;
complete on-the-job training;
be in good physical condition; and
have good communication skills.
Formal Education
Some block, brick and stone masons learn skills through apprenticeship
training programs. To apply for an apprenticeship, you must:
be at least 17 years old; and
be in good physical condition.
Apprenticeship programs usually consist of three to five years of
on-the-job training. In addition, each year you receive at least 144 hours of
classroom training. Classroom subjects include:
math;
blueprint reading; and
safety practices.
On the job, apprentices learn to:
use materials, tools, and equipment;
build scaffolding;
mix mortar; and
lay, align, and join brick and block.
To find out more about apprenticeships, contact your local
apprenticeship agency.
You can also get training at professional technical schools or two-year
colleges. These programs take two to four years to complete.
On-the-job Training
Many block and brick and stone masons learn their skills informally on the job.
In this case, you work as a helper and learn skills from an experienced worker.
On-the-job training lasts for several years.
Helpful
High School Courses
A high school degree is almost always required to work in this
occupation. You should take courses in high school that prepare you to earn a
high school diploma. This includes courses in English, math, science, and social
studies. You also need to take courses in physical education, health, and
applied art or second language.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you
for this specific occupation. While you do not have to take all of them, you
should consider them in planning for high school. Some of these courses are also
available at colleges and technical schools.
Since many block, brick and stone masons are self-employed, you
may find it useful to take business, accounting, and computer courses.
Hiring
Practices
Employers prefer to hire helpers or apprentices who have taken
courses in general math, mechanical drawing, and shop. A high school diploma or
GED is usually preferred. Applicants for apprenticeships must be at least 17
years old.
Employers prefer to hire applicants who are able to carry heavy material, such
as scaffolding. They look for people who are in good shape and can spend a lot
of time on their knees. Employers also look for people who are self-motivated
because these workers are not constantly supervised. However, block, brick
and stone masons must also work well with others. Working as a team member is
important for them to get work done. They also need to be people who do not mind
getting dirty. This job involves spending time in the dirt and mixing up batches
of cement, sand, and water.
Licensing
/ Certification
No State of North Carolina license requirements are found for
this career.
Wages
Nationally, the median wage for block and brick masons is $3,490 per month ($20.11
per hour). Half of all block and brick masons earn between $2,660 and $4,390 per
month ($15.36 and $25.32 per hour).
The median wage for stone masons is $2,840 per month ($16.36 per hour). Half of
all stone masons earn between $2,090 and $3,600 per month ($12.06 and $20.76 per
hour).
Actual hours spent on the job may be reduced by bad weather or downturns in
construction activity. Thus, overall earnings may be lower than these wages
suggest.
Pay varies with the employer and the type of job. Union workers often earn
higher wages. Apprentices generally earn about half the wage of skilled block,
brick
or stone masons. As apprentices gain experience and skills, they receive higher
pay.
Block, brick and stone masons who work full time may receive
Employment
Nationally, about 17,000 stone masons and 148,000 brick masons work in this
medium-sized occupation.
Major employers:
Masonry, stonework, and plastering contractors
Construction companies
Block, brick and stone masons work throughout the country.
However, most jobs are in or near cities.
About 28 percent of block and brick masons and 27 percent of stone masons are
self-employed.
Outlook
In North Carolina, employment for block, brick and stone
masons is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations
through the year 2012.
Nationally, the number of jobs for block, brick and stone masons is expected
to grow about as fast as average through the year 2012.
As the population grows, more schools, homes, factories, and other structures
will be needed. This growth will contribute to the demand for block, brick
and stone masons. Demand may also come from those who are renovating existing
masonry buildings. In addition, brick exteriors on homes are continuing to be
popular. This will also provide work for block and brick mason.
The demanding physical nature of this occupation and the uncomfortable working
conditions keep many people from entering it. As a result, job opportunities for
block, brick and stone masons should be good since there will be more
openings than there are workers.
Employment of block, brick and stone masons is sensitive to the economy.
When the economy slows down, so does construction. During these periods, block,
brick
and stone masons may be unemployed or work reduced hours.
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Employment
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Employment
Change
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2002
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2012
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Number
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Percent
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National
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165,000
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188,000
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23,000
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13.9
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Advancement
Opportunities
Beginners start as helpers, laborers, or mason tenders. As
they gain skills, they become experienced block, brick and stone masons.
Some experienced workers with leadership skills move to supervisory positions.
Other workers may move up to cost estimator jobs. Cost estimators go out to
sites and place bids on work based on what they think it will cost their company
to complete. These jobs take more training in technical and business skills.
Other block, brick and stone masons with business skills may decide to open
up their own contracting businesses.
Please see Masonry Courses.
For More Information Contact:
The Prosperity Christian Resource
and
Community Housing Development Center, Inc.
P. O. Box 2683, Reidsville, NC 27323
Tel: (336) 361 - 4066
FAX: (336) 348 - 1802
E-mail: webmaster@theprosperitycenter.com
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