About Masonry

Masonry in general terms is any material that is bonded together by mortar. This was a true description in ancient times and is still true today. The masonry trade has a long history and much has changed since the first bricks were laid, but today there are still many similarities with the masonry laid up centuries ago. The term Masonry in today’s needs is the bonding of Bricks, Concrete Block, Natural stone, Glass block and many other products that require mortar for the bonding agent. In North America the word “Bricklayer” is often used instead of mason.

The skill and training required to become a mason includes being able to figure trade related problems, proportion the ingredients to mix mortar and grout, read blueprints, and install and handle various different kinds of masonry units along with using various different tools to accomplish the job required.

The masonry trade offers a rewarding career for persons who have an interest in working with hand tools and materials made of clay, concrete or natural products. Masons are highly skilled workers. They understand the basic principles and practices related to the construction industry.

The Masonry Industry involves three basic areas:

• Commercial masonry construction involves projects such as schools, hospitals, warehouses and office buildings. Masons on these projects use a variety of equipment and materials and work very closely with a number of other trades to complete the assigned project.
• Industrial masonry is very often centered around refractory work projects such as blast furnaces, rotary kilns, and other heat or chemical resistant installations. Refractory masons use materials that are unique to their industry and require a high degree of skill and knowledge of this part of the bricklaying trade.
• Residential construction comprises of work, such as house veneers, fireplace construction and various types of decorative masonry, such as natural stone work, retaining walls, planters and side walk pavers.

What is a Mason?

Masons are skilled craftsmen who install masonry materials bonded with mortar such as brick, block, stone, and others to build walls and buildings. Many of the most beautiful and enduring structures around the world have been constructed by masons. Modern masons read blueprints, and specifications, interpret building codes, and possess a strong knowledge of tools, materials and construction techniques.

What does a Mason Do?

• Masons build your schools, hospitals, commercial and industrial buildings.
• Masons build walls that resist + 2,200 Degrees Kelvin, to smelt and process metals, chemicals, and glass – This part of the industry is known as Refractories.
• Masons build your homes.
• Masons restore the oldest buildings in the world!
   

Take a look around your community. You will likely be very surprised how much of the built environment you live and work in every day has been built by a mason.

Brick and Stone Mason Apprentice

A Brick and Stone Mason Apprentice is a Tradesperson in Training. An apprentice learns to develop the skills of the qualified mason on-the-job and through formal in-school training. All this while being paid and receiving employment benefits.

In order to become a certified bricklayer, an apprentice must work and learn for 3 to 5 years. This commitment will pay you for the rest of your life. EARN WHILE YOU LEARN!

Mason Apprentice - Age 19 $15/hr x 2000 = $30,000/year

Certified Mason - Age 24 $32/hr x 2000 = $64,000/year