A concrete mason builds structures using cement, pouring, smoothing, finishing, and coloring concrete. They create forms to contain wet cement, level it, and remove excess with trowels. Most work for municipal government organizations and construction companies, but some operate their own contracting businesses. They must be physically fit and have strong problem-solving and communication skills. Most learn on-the-job, but some enroll in technical school programs.
A concrete mason is a construction worker who builds many different types of structures using cement. He or she typically pours, smoothes, finishes and colors concrete using a set of specialized techniques and tools. Some bricklayers act as supervisors on job sites, directing other workers to ensure quality and efficiency. Most concrete masons are employed by municipal government organizations and construction companies, although some experienced workers successfully operate their own contracting businesses.
When starting a job, a concrete mason will often create wooden or metal forms to contain wet cement. He then pours the concrete mix into the form, taking care to fill the entire area and minimize air pockets. The mason is able to level the concrete and remove excess with a variety of different types of trowels. Specialized chisels and edging devices can be used to add detail and decoration.
Workers usually specialize in a specific type of construction. For example, a concrete mason might work with a crew that pours or lays foundations for buildings and homes. Specialists in specialized companies build concrete support beams and standard size slabs that are later used in construction projects. Bricklayers employed by municipal governments are involved in large public works projects such as building roads, highways, sidewalks, bridges and dams.
Some bricklayers work as private contractors, purchasing their own equipment and advertising their services to land, home and business owners. A contractor can work alone or hire assistants to help with projects. He or she typically meets with clients to plan jobs and negotiate rates. Contractors can work on a variety of projects including driveways, patios, retaining walls and decorative pieces. Many contractors also perform repair work on old and damaged structures.
Construction projects are often labor intensive and involve outdoor work in all types of weather conditions. A concrete mason must be physically fit enough to spend several hours walking, bending over and using tools. He also needs strong thinking and communication skills to solve problems that occur in the workplace and to work effectively with other construction specialists.
Most bricklayers learn the trade through on-the-job internships, although some choose to enroll in technical school programs to hone their skills and improve their chances of finding steady employment. A new concrete mason will often help more experienced workers for several months or years before taking on projects independently. With time and experience, a mason can advance within a company or organization to the role of site supervisor. Most bricklayers who choose to work as contractors do so after gaining several years of experience and building a good reputation in the construction business.
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