A bricklayer is a craftsman who specializes in laying bricks in construction work. They are not to be confused with stone masons, whose area of expertise is cutting, shaping and laying of stones and stonework.
Although bricklaying is an ancient profession, its use is still very important in the modern day. This form of apprenticeship requires skill; therefore, training under a skilled bricklayer is a pre-requisite for becoming successful.
Their area of expertise covers; building walls, chimney stacks, tunnel linings, repairing walls and making decorative stonework. It is basically a technical profession that also requires some skill in reading plans, being organized and systematic. Although formal education is not necessary for one to become a bricklayer, all employers prefer someone with on-site experience. In large projects, a bricklayer should be able to work well with a team for better work coordination.
What Is Expected Of A Bricklayer?
Their work involves manually or mechanically mixing mortar. They get instructions on mixing ratios from the project manager or contractor, who then passes it on to the foreman supervising the bricklayer. They are also tasked with establishing various measurements of the work area and setting out the damp course as well as the first rows of bricks. Once they have successfully laid out the first rows, they will alternatingly apply mortar with a trowel and subsequent rows of bricks or courses. There is a standard thickness of mortar that varies depending on the project details. This information will be communicated to the bricklayer and they will know how to make it work. Where required, they will also shape and trim the bricks using chisels, harmers and power tools.
Given that this profession is very manual-based, it goes without saying that bricklayers are expected to wear protective gear such as safety helmets and boots. DIY beginners tend to forget this and end up getting hurt.
The nature of a bricklayer’s work makes it very possible to work as freelancers. Once they have successfully completed a project, they will move on to the next. So it is normal for them to travel a lot. Bricklayers are also better placed to advice their employers on prices of bricks and the best ones on the market. They will also have an idea of how much brick is needed for a particular project.
Freelancer.com has been consistently ranked among the best, if not the best, marketplace for professional freelancers. Thousands of local bricklayers across different locations on the globe are available to offer their services through this website. They are very experienced and some of them have received distinguished awards for expertise in their profession.
Freelancer.com has now made it possible and easy to find bricklayers online in your local area. All you have to do is visit the website, post a project and start reviewing portfolios of different bricklayers, as they bid on your project. They are a crucial element of construction work and without them, the project can’t kick off. These freelance professionals are waiting for you to contact them and arrange a meeting. If you are having trouble finding a local bricklayer, support staff at Freelancer.com will be happy to help.