Masonry Workers

Masonry Workers typically perform the following tasks: • Measure distance from reference points and mark guidelines to lay out work, using plumb bobs and levels. • Construct corners by fastening in plumb position a corner pole or building a corner pyramid of bricks, and filling in between the corners using a line from corner to corner to guide each course, or layer, of brick. • Apply and smooth mortar or other mixture over work surface. • Calculate angles and courses and determine vertical and horizontal alignment of courses. • Break or cut bricks, tiles, or blocks to size, using trowel edge, hammer, or power saw. • Interpret blueprints and drawings to determine specifications and to calculate the materials required. • Remove excess mortar with trowels and hand tools, and finish mortar joints with jointing tools, for a sealed, uniform appearance. • Fasten or fuse brick or other building material to structure with wire clamps, anchor holes, torch, or cement. • Clean working surface to remove scale, dust, soot, or chips of brick and mortar, using broom, wire brush, or scraper. • Examine brickwork or structure to determine need for repair. • Mix specified amounts of sand, clay, dirt, or mortar powder with water to form refractory mixtures. • Remove burned or damaged brick or mortar, using sledgehammer, crowbar, chipping gun, or chisel. • Lay and align bricks, blocks, or tiles to build or repair structures or high temperature equipment, such as cupola, kilns, ovens, or furnaces. • Spray or spread refractory material over brickwork to protect against deterioration. • Use drone technology to inspect and assess the condition of tall structures.