How Does
How Does a Bricklayer Spend a Workday?
Introduction
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Bricklayers are an important part of the construction industry. They build, repair and decorate indoor and outdoor structures. Contrary to the job title, bricklayers work with a number of building materials, including tile, cement, granite, mortar and, of course, bricks. If you enjoy working with your hands in an active environment, then you may be curious to know how bricklayers spend their days.
Pre-Construction Job Duties
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Prior to construction, bricklayers must meet with the construction foreman or the client to go over design details. A pre-construction day may include drawing up sketches, brainstorming ideas and advising the decision makers on what design may be the most effective choice. Once the job details have been outlined, the bricklayer may also need to put together estimates for cost of materials and labor.
A Typical Work Day
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Most workdays for the bricklayer are spent at the construction site. Here, the majority of the day is spent laying bricks or performing similar building tasks. This is done with the use of many different types of tools, chief among them a spirit level and trowel. A spirit level is used to keep each layer of bricks even. Cutting bricks to fit smoothly into the design of the structure may also be a necessary job task. At the end of the day, cleanup duties may require putting away extra bricks, packing up tools and attending to unused mortar so it doesn't dry out.
Bricklayer Work Conditions
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Construction is often a time-sensitive endeavor, which may lead to long hours for bricklayers. Workdays typically begin as soon as the sun is up and may not conclude until the lack of day's light in the evening makes it difficult to continue work. Bricklayers are frequently required to carry large loads. As such, a reasonable amount of physical strength and stamina are required to become a successful bricklayer.
eHow Article: How Does a Bricklayer Spend a Workday?
