Brick walls, while sturdy and time-tested for durability, can be affected by the ravages of nature as much as anything else. Water, like from rainfall, is one of the leading causes of brick walls falling into disrepair. Crumbling or missing bricks as well as cracks can cause some severe structural damage to any brick wall. These problems need to be addressed promptly, which is where is a brick wall mason comes in to help.
The job of a brick mason (also known as a brick layer) is to construct structurally sound brick walls and other assorted structures. It is also within a brick mason’s skill set to repair damages sustained by an existing brick wall. These professionals are a valuable asset for any home or property owner to have available to them, but no two brick wall masons are the same.
When it comes to your job, you know that you want someone professional, reasonably priced and knowledgeable in their craft. But what other questions should you be asking as you interview prospective brick masons for your project?
Read on to see the five most useful questions that you can ask a prospective brick wall mason for your project.
As a Brick Wall Mason, Do You Have a Specialty?
Most contractors have a specialty that they apply within their field. Some brick masons are especially adept at traditional clay bricks, while others really shine with concrete or natural stone. You want to make sure that your brick layer is confident and competent when working with the medium that your project requires.
What are Your Certifications?
Any professional brick wall mason should have a certification from the Mason Contractors Association of America, or the MCAA. In addition to this important certification from a nationally acknowledged association, they should also have a general contractor’s license. These two qualifications are typically seen as non-negotiable in hiring a brick mason for a project of any size.
Who Has to Pay for Materials?
Some contractors will provide the materials necessary for the project, which will be reflected in their overall asking price. However, there is a chance that you could save some money by going out and purchasing some of the required materials yourself. When it comes to large, more expensive projects especially, this is definitely something that you should ask about as an option.
Who Will Be Performing the Work?
Some brick mason contractors sub-contract their projects to those who work with them. If this is going to be the case, ensure that the workers are adequately insured to protect you and themselves while they are working on your property.
Will Additional Safety Measures Be Needed?
A brick wall mason might feel that some increased safety precautions will be in order to ensure that your project is completed both timely and safely. Discuss whether or not measures like scaffolding, extra permits, and containment practices will be necessary for the health and safety of all involved.
You may interview more than one brick wall mason before deciding on who will be responsible for the completion of your project. As you go through this process, keep these questions at the front of your mind. You will inevitably find the brick mason that suits the job.
