Bricklayer

What is a bricklayer?

A bricklayer is someone who constructs and repairs buildings using bricks and other types of masonry.

What does a bricklayer do?

Usually, a bricklayer does the following:

• Builds walls, chimneys, and other structures using bricks, blocks, or stones
• Prepares mortar and mixes it to the correct consistency
• Measures and cuts bricks to fit the design
• Applies mortar to each brick and lays them in a neat and even pattern
• Checks that the structure is level and aligned correctly
• Repairs damaged masonry and replaces broken or cracked bricks

What does the day-to-day life of a bricklayer look like?

A bricklayer usually works from Monday to Friday, around 8 hours a day. However, the working hours may change depending on the project and weather conditions. You'll spend most of your time working outdoors on construction sites. You might work independently or as part of a team. The tasks can vary from building new structures to repairing and maintaining existing ones.

Where does a bricklayer work?

Bricklayers can work for construction companies, building firms, or as self-employed contractors. You'll often find bricklayers working on new building projects such as houses, apartment blocks, or commercial buildings. You may also be involved in the renovation and restoration of older buildings.

What tools/equipment does a bricklayer use?

A bricklayer uses a variety of tools and equipment, including:

• Brick trowel: Used to spread and shape mortar
• Brick jointer: Used to create smooth and uniform mortar joints
• Spirit level: Used to ensure that walls and structures are level and plumb
• Measuring tape: Used to measure distances and ensure accurate brick placement
• Hammer and chisel: Used for cutting and shaping bricks
• Masonry saw: Used for precise brick cutting
• Scaffolding: Used to provide a safe working platform when working at height

What do I need to become a bricklayer?

There are a number of ways you can become a bricklayer, including:

• Apprenticeship: Completing a bricklaying apprenticeship allows you to learn the trade while working alongside experienced bricklayers. This usually takes around 2-3 years.
• College courses: You can also attend college to learn the skills needed to become a bricklayer. These courses usually offer practical training and can be completed in 1-2 years.
• On-the-job training: Some bricklayers learn the trade by starting as a laborer on a construction site and gradually gaining experience and skills.

What career paths are available?

There are several career paths available to you as a bricklayer, including:

• Site Supervisor/Foreperson: With experience, you can progress to a supervisory role where you oversee a team of bricklayers and manage construction projects.
• Construction Manager: As you gain more experience and knowledge of the construction industry, you can move into a managerial position, coordinating and overseeing multiple construction projects.
• Self-Employed Contractor: Many experienced bricklayers choose to become self-employed and take on their own projects, allowing them to have more control over their work and potentially earn higher income.

What jobs are similar to a bricklayer?

• Stonemason: A stonemason works with stone rather than bricks but shares similar skills and techniques.
• Carpenter: Like a bricklayer, a carpenter is involved in the construction and repair of buildings, but focuses on working with wood.
• Plasterer: Plasterers specialize in applying plaster or other finishing materials to walls and ceilings.

What made you want to become a bricklayer?

How did you get your first bricklayer job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a bricklayer?

Are you a bricklayer? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to bricklaying. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.