Is Learning Bricklaying Worth Your Time?

Bricklaying is a trade that specialises in building and repairing walls, floors, partitions, fireplaces, chimneys, as well as other structures with brick or concrete block. A bricklayer may use their skills for residential or large commercial development projects. Additionally, bricklayers may also refurbish brickwork on restoration projects.

Bricklayers are responsible for a variety of work. Typically it involves hands on bricklaying like measuring the work area following the architect's plans, mixing mortar by hand or with a mechanical mixer, laying the bricks and applying the mortar, shaping and trimming bricks using bricklaying tools and checking that the brick wall is straight.

Working outdoors is common for bricklayers, as well as having to lift heavy material and stand for long periods of time.

Some bricklayers pick up their skills informally by watching others perform the work. However, most employers prefer to hire someone who has training or on-site experience. That's why it's important to take the time to learn bricklaying techniques . Individuals who learn on the job usually start as helpers or labourers and their duties involve carrying materials, moving scaffolds and mixing mortars. If the opportunity arises, they can learn from experienced bricklayers how to spread mortar, lay brick or set stone. The learning period for understanding bricklaying techniques is much longer this way than if trained in an Apprenticeship program or through a training course.

If possible, a great way to get started in learning bricklaying is through an Apprenticeship. The types of programs available will really depend on your local area and the job market. To be eligible for a bricklaying Apprenticeship, you will need to have some GCSEs in math, English and basic knowledge of mechanical drawing.

Apprentices often start out by working with bricklaying labourers, carrying materials, mixing mortars and building scaffolds. This initiation period generally lasts about a month and familiarises the apprentice with basic bricklaying techniques, job routines and materials. Next, apprentices learn how to lay, align, and join brick and block, you may even build a wall . Apprenticeships vary in time required and are determined by how fast you learn and progress. Most last from 12 to 24 months though.

Once you are working as a bricklayer, you can then take NVQ qualifications. You can prepare for this qualification by taking courses in bricklaying techniques. Courses are offered in a variety of ways. You may learn bricklaying through an online course, an 8-week City & Guilds program and even through a home-based bricklaying DVD course.

It's important to know that by 2010, workers within the construction industry must hold a CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card or register with an affiliated scheme. To receive this card, bricklayers must gain an NVQ or an acceptable equivalent, as well as pass a health and safety assessment.
New Deal Apprenticeship Schemes may be an option for those who have been unemployed for six months or more. These provide an allowance and training and can lead to a formal job offering once your apprenticeship is complete. You can learn more about this particular opportunity through your local Jobcentre.

However you choose to learn bricklaying , the job prospects look positive right now. Bricklayers are in high demand due to urban revitalisation programs, building programs and large development projects being built throughout the UK. The construction industry estimates that it will need about 5,000 new bricklayers every year from now until the year 2011.

Once you become an experience bricklayer, you can progress to supervisory roles or other related roles like construction management. You may also work independently as a self-employed bricklayer. As long as you work hard and are dedicated to the art of bricklaying, you will see positive rewards in your chosen career path.

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