Bricklaying is a form of masonry, which refers to constructing or building something using individual units (such as bricks, concrete, mortar, cinderblocks, etc.). A bricklayer (“brickie” as they’re affectionately known in some parts of the world) is unique, because he or she is expected to do a bit more than simple bricklaying.
The following are some examples of what a bricklayer will be expected to do on a regular basis:
- Repair and/or replace existing brick: This is a given, but a bricklayer is the most qualified person for this task, and they can be trusted to do it delicately without compromising the overall structure of the building or section.
- Rig mobile and/or stationary scaffolding: Depending on the scale and requirements of the project, a bricklayer might be asked to set up proper scaffolding in order to accommodate the rest of the crew and the project’s overall benefit.
- Welding: Some basic skills in welding might be necessary for larger scale projects. Most crews and companies will, in fact, include basic knowledge of welding in a bricklayer’s job description.
- Mixing: The mixing of mortar, cement, and other materials will be expected of the average bricklayer, and it will actually be a part of any test before a bricklayer can receive his/her certification.
As you can see, a bricklayer can and will be tasked with a variety of different duties, which creates a lot of different job opportunities for a professional bricklayer.
Bricklayer Expectations
Bricklayers have the benefit of being qualified to do various jobs in the construction or building industry, and they normally range through different levels of complexity and difficulty.
- Chimney Repair/Construction: A classic example of a bricklaying job. The majority of chimneys – old and new – remain primarily brick-based, which creates a constant demand for bricklayers. As such, a bricklayer should be comfortable, and accustomed to repairing, maintaining, and constructing a chimney.
- Sidewalk/Driveways: To reiterate, bricklaying also involves some degree of stonemasonry – the laying of stone, to be exact. Therefore, constructing sidewalks, driveways, or anything that involves laying stone may – in fact – be done by a professional bricklayer.
- Fireproofing: Reinforcing walls or floors with a layer of stone, brick, or other materials is also another job which frequently employs bricklayers. Of course, it’s not a guarantee that every bricklayer will be experienced in doing this, but that can be solved with a simple inquiry before the signing of any contract or agreement.
A competent bricklayer will rarely be in need of work, but when hiring a bricklayer, the client should confirm that the candidate is – in fact – well versed in all the different tasks that the project requires. As long as the client does his/her due diligence, the project should go off without a hitch.
