The construction industry opens a lot of opportunities for individuals who want to be involved in projects. One of its roles is bricklaying jobs, where you need to lay bricks for a building. We know that working on a construction project is not a simple job. It requires teamwork, safety, and precision. But, you can start to work in this field by understanding what bricklayers do.
Bricklaying jobs are not only about stacking bricks for a new premise. They also include repairing walls and chimneys, often employing a variety of materials, including concrete blocks or stones. With that in mind, individuals in a bricklayer role require good physical health, strength, and stamina because they will be lifting and moving heavy materials. If you want to know more about what this role is going to do, let's dig deeper!
What is bricklaying job?
A bricklaying job is a position where an individual needs to lay materials and other types of building components to construct a building wall. This job includes repairing the walls, partitions, and other integral frameworks. It can also involve refurbishing brickwork on restoration projects. Moreover, the work may require pre-cutting stone and concrete blocks in mortar before executing the project.
However, bricklaying work is not only about making the construction structures strong. It is also sometimes necessary to perform decorative masonry work. This work requires you to make the brick or stone appear more aesthetically pleasing. You'll be one step ahead of any bricklayers out there if you can make the building.
Furthermore, bricklaying jobs will be in high demand due to the constant construction of buildings and ongoing renovations. Therefore, focusing your skills in this role is a good choice, as it will also provide a prospective career path in the construction industry. Specifically, if you also know how to handle natural stone and concrete to blend them beautifully, it will be good.
Bricklaying tips for beginners: the dos and don'ts
It is never too late to start, wherever your starting point may be. A beginner can also begin bricklaying jobs because no one can become a professional without first starting as an amateur. Therefore, you don't need to worry or be afraid to start any position, including this job. It is because anything good can happen as long as you are trying.
With that in mind, it is important to understand the basics of the role. Therefore, this article will help you delve into this subject. Start by preparing the site, identifying the tools you may need, and considering many things you may not yet be familiar with. Here is the guide for you:
Prepare the site
Bricklaying jobs require a good focus. Therefore, preparing the site initially will establish a good work zone for you. Having a proper site to do work will enhance the quality of your build. With that in mind, you need to clear up the area. Ensure you have sufficient space to work and clear the area of debris.
Tools you need
As a beginner, you may still be wondering what tools you need to start laying bricks. To start, use a brick trowel to lay down the mortar for the bricks and remove any excess. The second one is a spirit level to ensure your project level is correct and vertically straight. Next, you can use a jointing bar to add finishing touches to the mortar. Also, don't forget a tape measure, lines, and pins, as well as a soft-bristled brush.
Ensure a good foundation
Before starting bricklaying jobs, ensure a good foundation, as working on a larger build requires a solid foundation. Digging deeper into the foundation is a must. It shall be below ground level for larger projects. With that in mind, you need to know the right measurements.
Mixing the mortar
Mortar is like glue for each brick. Its role is to hold every brick together. Mortar is made of a mixture of cement, sand, and water. Hence, you need to mix it right with the recipe of four parts of sand and one part of cement. After that, add water to achieve the right consistency. However, avoid making it too wet or too dry.
Apply the mortar
Once the mortar is blended correctly, you can begin bricklaying jobs. In this case, you need to spread the mortar by using a brick trowel. Scoop some mortar and then spread it onto the break. There is also a trench technique where you point the trowel at a 45-degree angle to make a small trench in the mortar. It will make the brick sticks better.
Finishing
Bricklaying jobs require a skill until the job is completed. However, you need to take it slow and avoid rushing things, as the brick needs time to dry. If you try to go too quickly, it will ruin your work, which will take more time to fix. After a day full of work, clean off any excess. If you find the mortar joints are not flush enough, add a bit more.
Bricklaying jobs near me
To find bricklaying jobs, you just need to search on online job boards. Use primary keywords like "bricklaying", "bricklayer", or similar. After you find one, prepare your curriculum vitae to apply. Please note that this role typically requires a valid CSCS card (Construction Skills Certification Scheme). Some employers may ask for experience. Meanwhile, some may take you to train on-site with labourers. Here is the place you can find more jobs in this role:
- Online job boards: You can find bricklaying jobs through platforms like Indeed, Totaljobs, Reed, and many more.
- Recruitment agencies: Hays Construction, Randstad Construction, and many more.
- Direct to construction companies: Some big firms often have vacancies on their website.
- Local projects and small firms: The old strategy is to walk around the site and ask if they need workers who are still working. Make sure that you bring a printed copy of your CV.
- Social media: Facebook and LinkedIn are great options for finding bricklaying jobs.
Bricklaying jobs salary
Bricklaying jobs offer competitive salaries, with an excellent starting salary, especially in the UK. However, it still depends on many factors. Whether you are just beginning as an apprentice or newly qualified, the numbers differ. All in all, focusing on this commitment is a good choice. Here is their estimated salary:
- Apprentice: £6.30 per hour, £50.40 per day, £11,063 per year.
- Newly qualified: £18.19 per hour, £145.52 per day, £31,942 per year.
- Employed: £19.28 per hour, £154.24 per day, £40,102 per year.
- Sole trader: £38.00 per hour, £304.00 per day, £56,052 per year.
Final thoughts
Every role in the construction industry indeed offers a number of opportunities, specifically for bricklaying jobs. This role is suitable for beginners or those new to the field. However, you will need good physical requirements, as this work is physically demanding. If you are interested in this job, you also need to take care of your physical health.
As this role requires a qualification, you can obtain your certification by attending an online course that is designed by the College of Contract Management. The college provides a lot of formal certifications in the construction industry. You can improve your credibility and trustworthiness by getting a credible certification in your focus area. Look no further and enrol now!
