Masonry refers to the construction of structures from the individual units. It defines what a mason does, using different materials such as stones, bricks, blocks, and cement. Masonry is one of the most critical jobs in construction and one of the oldest, which explains why it is constantly in high demand. For anyone to be a mason is something that requires skill and expertise. Most times, masons specialize in the use of material for construction. Thus, we have subcategories such as brick masons, stonemasons, cement masons, etc. Generally, masons use mortar to bind the units of their construction together or to balance it when it seems irregular. Using mortar further strengthens the building and improves its ability to withstand different weather conditions.
Roles of a Mason
One of the significant works of a mason is to rehabilitate building structures. Most times, as building ages, it starts to lose its strength and its beauty. Both the mortar and masonry units begin to weaken, which may lead to further problems if it is not quickly fixed. A mason can be called in such an instance to renovate the building and return it to an almost new state.
Generally, both commercial and residential buildings have masonry units as part of their structure. Foundations are typically made of concrete, and walls could have brick sidings too. Stone surfaces are ubiquitous in buildings as well. What this means is that a mason can work on both commercial and residential buildings without any problem. Usually, the duration of masonry projects varies based on the work in question. Residential buildings are more likely to take less time than commercial buildings.
Certification
In order to practice as a mason, there is a need to learn the trade and be certified. A mason certification is not the same as bricklaying because the qualifications for each job are different. The essence of having this certification is so that you will have proof of your expertise in that line of trade. There are also instances where a license is issued based on that certification. Even when it has nothing to do with licensing, a certificate is how your client knows that you truly know what they are asking you to do. Without it, they don’t have any objective method of determining your quality.
The masonry certificate program teaches students all the rudiments and fundamentals of masonry and advanced bricklaying. This includes how to build and maintain brick, concrete, and stone structures. It usually encompasses theoretical and practical knowledge so that students won’t only have the technical knowledge about the industry; they will also know how things are done since they will be doing it. Common masonry courses during the certification program include:
Reading masonry blueprints and diagrams.
Basic bricklaying
Operating the power tools used in masonry
Cleaning, caulking, and pointing
Cost estimation, etc.
Conclusion
It usually takes between two to four years to enroll in a certification program, but it might take a shorter period where the person is already undergoing a mason apprenticeship. The only qualification usually required is that the person is at least 18 years and has a GED or high school diploma. For more information contact https://www.honolulu-concrete.com/masonry.html.
