What Do Masons Contractors Do?

If you’ve ever wondered about the precise brickwork of a historical building, you’ve had a taste of the magic masons bring to the construction world.

Masons are skilled tradespeople who work with various building materials, primarily stone, bricks, and concrete blocks, to create structures such as walls, walkways, and buildings.

They are also referred to as bricklayers or stonemasons, depending on the specific materials they work with. In this article, we’ll delve into the Masons’ world, exploring their responsibilities, salaries, and skills.

What are the Roles of Masons in a Construction Project?

Masons play crucial roles in construction projects, encompassing a range of responsibilities related to building and maintaining structures made from bricks, stones, concrete blocks, and other masonry materials. Their roles include:

1. Pre-Construction Phase

1. Clear the site of debris, level the ground, and set up temporary structures or markers to guide the construction process.
2. Estimate the number of materials needed for the project, such as bricks, stones, cement, sand, and mortar.
3. Review construction blueprints and plans to understand the layout, dimensions, and specific requirements of the masonry work.
4. Build sample walls or structures as mock-ups to demonstrate the expected quality and appearance of the masonry work.

2. During-Construction Phase

1. Interpret construction drawings and blueprints to understand the design specifications, dimensions, and materials required.
2. Lay bricks, stones, and blocks in horizontal layers, ensuring they are aligned, leveled, and properly bonded with mortar.
3. Build walls, columns, arches, and other structural elements.
4. Incorporate reinforcement materials like steel rods or mesh within masonry to enhance structural strength and stability.
5. Constantly check the alignment, verticality, and leveling of masonry work using tools like plumb lines, spirit levels, and trowels.

3. Post-Construction Phase

1. Identify and repair cracks in walls, floors, and other masonry elements to prevent further damage.
2. Apply sealants to prevent water infiltration, which can cause significant damage over time.
3. Apply protective coatings to enhance the durability and appearance of masonry surfaces.

How Much Do Masons Make?

On average, these construction workers can expect to earn between $35,000 and $55,000 annually. Entry-level bricklayers may start with lower wages, around $15 to $20 per hour, while experienced ones, especially those working in high-demand areas or with specialized skills, can earn upwards of $30 per hour.

How To Become a Mason?

1. Most masons learn their trade through apprenticeship programs. These programs typically last for 3-4 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
2. Look for construction companies or contractors that specialize in masonry work and are willing to take on apprentices.
3. You must have excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to lay bricks, blocks, or stones precisely and accurately.
4. Have a better understanding of construction techniques, materials, tools, and equipment used in masonry work.
5. You must have precision and attention to detail to produce high-quality masonry work.
6. Masonry is a skilled trade that requires continuous learning and improvement. Stay updated on the latest techniques, materials, and safety regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are Masons in the Construction Industry?

Masons are skilled tradespeople who work with materials like bricks, concrete blocks, and natural and artificial stones to build structures like walls, sidewalks, and roads.

2. What are the Main Responsibilities of a Mason?

These bricklayers typically perform tasks such as laying bricks or blocks, mixing mortar, cutting or shaping materials, and applying finishes.

3. What Skills are Required to Become a Mason?

Essential skills to become a mason include manual dexterity, physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work accurately with measurements and plans.

4. What are Some Common Challenges Faced by Masons?

These construction workers may encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, tight deadlines, and physically demanding work environments.

Wrapping Up

Masons are the unsung heroes of the construction industry, shaping the world brick by brick. From ancient wonders to modern skyscrapers, the craft of masonry shows human creativity, ingenuity, and perseverance.