Nature of work:
The stonemason’s responsibility includes building stone structures, such as piers, walls, and abutments. They are also responsible for layering curbstones, or special types of masonry for vats, tanks, and floors.
Basic tasks:
- Proper installing of stone structures, such as piers, walls, and abutments or high temperature equipment
- Drills and repair ornamental stone or marble surface, using blowtorch and mastic.
- Calculates angles and courses and determines vertical and horizontal alignment of courses.
- Cleaning and mixing of mortars used In mixing cements
- Measures distance from reference points and marks guidelines to lay out work, using plumb bobs and levels.
- Breaks or cuts stones, marble, tiles, or blocks to size, using edge of trowel, hammer, or power saw.
- Make finishing touches.
Education and Training Requirements:
- Vocational course in Masonry
- Training certificate of Masonry
- At least 2- 3 years working experience as Stonemason or Mason
Skills and Competency Requirements:
- Have wide knowledge in construction works.
- Must be keen to details.
- Knowledge in designing and must know how to read blueprints
- Must have knowledge in mixing cements and other substance used refractory mixtures.
- Knowledge in operating construction tools and equipments
- Know basic algebra to calculate measurement, angles etc.
- Must be strong to carry heavy loads
Employment Opportunities:
Government and Private construction companies abroad are in need of masons especially with expertise in stone ad brick layering. Stonemasons have high opportunities working abroad because they can work either government or private owned construction company. Their expertise is widely needed especially in
Work Environment:
Stonemason often does field works. They usually work on construction sites or public highways. All mason workers are provided with safety attire to prevent accidents.
Work Hours:
Stonemasons work for 8-10 hours a day. Often times, they are required to work overtime but with pay.
Career Advancement:
Deserving and hard working masons are often promoted as Foreman, field coordinator or Estimator.
Related works:
Brickmason
Blockmason
Tile and marble setters