Masonry contractors generally fall into one of two categories: brick laying or concrete work. Therefore, you may need a masonry contractor to help you create a driveway, to complete landscaping projects, or to build your home of brick.
What Should I Look for in a Masonry Contractor?
Many vocational schools offer courses in masonry work. In some cases, however, the masonry contractor will learn while on the job or will participate in an apprenticeship.
An apprenticeship generally takes four years to complete because it is important for the masonry contractor to understand blueprints and have a working knowledge of metrics, measurements and fractions. Math skills are generally required for those who want to become masonry contractors as well.
Since licensing generally is not required, it is important to learn about the mason’s education and work experience in order to make certain he or she is properly prepared to take on the project. You might also want to make certain the masonry contractor is a member of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftsworkers. In addition, the masonry contractor should be physically healthy and strong, as the job requires lifting heavy bags of concrete powder and mixing it by hand and by machine on a regular basis.
What Should I Expect When Hiring a Masonry Contractor?
When starting out the job, a masonry contractor may begin by having his or her helpers erect scaffolding, mix mortar or bring materials and equipment to the site. The masonry contractor and his or her helpers will then mix the mortar, spread it, and then lay bricks, blocks or stone. The masonry contractor will also use tools such as brick cutters, trowels and tape measures in order to complete the job. Depending upon the scope of your project, it may take only a couple days to complete or it may take a couple years.
