What does a Mason Do?: A Guide to the Masonry Profession
A Guide to the Masonry Profession
Masonry is an ancient profession in which skilled artisans construct stone walls, buildings, and monuments. Contrary to popular belief, Masons are not in the business of building castles or cathedrals; these structures were built by old-world stonemasons long before modern Masonry was established.
Today, modern-day Masons are involved with construction, restoration, and all types of building projects. The job duties vary with the location, size, and type of project. Mason's apprenticeship can last up to seven years depending on their jurisdiction.
There are three areas of specialty that masons can ultimately work in; these are stone, brick, and concrete masonry. Some masons have all three specialties.
Stone Masons
Stonemasons use stone, typically granite or marble, to construct buildings and monuments. They also work with manufactured materials to create their structures. Stonemasons cut and place the stones on a project site. They use special tools to chip away excess rock from the stones to make the right fit. Masonry saws are used for more detailed cuts on a project site while a chisel is used for removing stone from larger areas on a project site. These are just a few of the tools that stonemasons use.
Some common types of projects are Hawaiian rock walls, retaining walls, and outdoor ovens.
Brick Masons
Brick masons use brick, mortar, and other manufactured materials to construct buildings. Masonry is the construction of structures using brick, block or natural stone. These building materials are generally strong with high compressive strength relative to their low tensile strength. When bricks are mortared together an extremely strong wall can be formed. Brick Masons are commonly referred to as bricklayers. This type of masonry requires precision as bricklaying usually requires straight lines according to the materials used.
Some common types of projects include chimney repair and installation, patios, and walkways.
Concrete Masonry Contractors
Masonry contractors use concrete, both poured and blocks, to construct buildings and structures. This type of mason uses a variety of tools, machinery, and equipment on a worksite.
Some common types of projects are foundations, patios, and walls.
How to Become a Mason
Becoming a Mason requires patience and great work ethic. You must be at least 18 years old, an American citizen, and of good moral character. Most jurisdictions require you to complete three levels of apprentice work before reaching full journeyman status.
These levels include Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Once you reach Master Mason status it may take up to seven years to become a master mason.
The Future of the Profession
As of 2015, there are approximately 600,000 masons in the United States and Canada. The profession is expected to grow by 15 percent over the next ten years.
Masonry offers many benefits for its members such as: a large social network, great salary, and great retirement solutions (through pension and 401k plans). These benefits are expected to fuel growth in the profession.
Population growth and a focus on sustainable building materials will fuel the continued growth in the demand for masonry services across the United States.
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