Construction – stonemasonry…Category: Business
Article posted by: Jon Richards
Stonemasons are highly-skilled professionals who work with stone, repairing and restoring old stonework and preparing and fitting stonework for new buildings. The job also involves creating and fitting features seen on old and new buildings, from archways to window frames.
Stonemasons work with many different types of stone, including marble, granite and sandstone, and many choose to specialise in working with a specific stone. There are two main jobs within stonemasonry. A banker mason’s work is based in workshops, where they work with stone received from the quarry and prepare it for use on different buildings. They cut and carve the stone using tools, from chisels to drills, getting the stone ready for a fixer mason. A fixer mason works on the construction site to fix the prepared stone in place and fix them together. They will also undertake any repair work that needs doing to older and historical buildings. Many small firms require stonemasons who can work in both trades.
It is possible for trainee stonemasons to train through a college course, working towards a construction diploma level 2 or 3 in stonemasonry. However, most people choose to undertake employer-based training, learning the trade whilst employed within a firm. Apprenticeships are also available leading to an NVQ level 2, and Advanced Apprenticeships leading to an NVQ level 3 in stonemasonry.
There are no required formal qualifications for those wanting to work in stonemasonry, however, those wishing to work as stonemasons need to possess certain qualities. An artistic flare is always useful, especially for those working as banker masons, creating architectural features such as archways and carving patterns into stone. They must also be able to follow plans and drawings given to them by architectures and designers. Patience is also a key quality to have, as some of the work is very delicate and detailed. Workers, especially fixer masons need to be fit and strong and ready to work at heights and outdoors in all weather conditions. Manual skills are important, and so is an awareness of safety, on-site and in workshops.
Trainees should expect to earn around £15,000 a year to begin with, but experienced stonemasons can work up to earning £30,000 a year.
Posted By: Jon Richards
Web: http://www.bristoljobs.co.uk
Contact: e-mail
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