Duties

Bricklayers prepare and lay brick and other masonry units to construct and repair structures such as walls, partitions, patios, arches, fireplaces and chimneys.

Bricklayers work with masonry materials such as brick, concrete block, stone, structural tile and precast panels.

They also lay or install fire brick or castable materials in commercial and industrial furnaces and incinerators, and acid tile and acid brick in pulp mills.

In general, bricklayers:

Interpret drawings and blueprints, and calculate the materials required measure from an established starting point and construct corners first, using a plumb line and mason’s level to ensure each layer will be level from corner to corner spread mortar over the base or previous layer, spread more mortar on one end of each brick to be laid, and lay the bricks into position remove excess mortar after the brick (or other masonry material) is in position use a hammer and chisel or a masonry saw to cut bricks to fit, as required.

Bricklayers must know the properties of various mortars and other bonding materials, and how to handle different types of masonry units. Working Conditions Bricklayers usually work outdoors, often on scaffolding. They sometimes use protective enclosures and portable heaters in adverse weather conditions.

The work is physically demanding, and some travel may be required to get to various work sites. Bricklayers work a five-day, 40-hour week. Overtime is sometimes required to meet construction schedules Skills and Abilities The work is most rewarding for those who enjoy working with their hands on a variety of projects which sometimes require creativity.

To be successful in their trade, bricklayers need: the strength and stamina required to work with heavy tools and materials weighing between 11 and 25 kilograms manual dexterity and a good sense of balance the ability to get along well with co-workers an eye for colour, line and proportion Employment and Advancement Bricklayers are employed by special trade, building and general contractors.

Some bricklayers are self-employed, usually contracting on small jobs such as patios and fireplaces. Bricklayers may experience periods of unemployment during an economic downturn when construction slows down and/or during cold weather. Journeyman wage rates vary, but generally range from £12 to £25 an hour plus benefits.

Many bricklayers stay in the trade until they retire. Others advance to estimator, inspector or foreman positions.