So what do Brick-layers do?
Here in the UK almost everyone lives and works in some sort of brick-built establishment, yet we barely spare a thought for the people who build these structures.
In contrast, in America, where most people live in wooden houses, bricklayers are held in very high regard.
Recently, a good friend of mine commissioned a brick built extension to his property and while visiting him I fell into conversation with the project foreman.
I commented on the speed at which the bricklayer was working and he replied, “Yes, but there’s a lot more to it than that. Speed is essential but it has to be combined with strength, precision and artistry.”
While I was considering this he smiled and added, “They literally talk to the walls you know.” I
must have looked sceptical, “Yes
really,” he said. “They converse with their project; ask what it demands, what sort of bricks they should use and how they should lay them for maximum strength and visual impact. They ask themselves if the climate is hot or cold, damp or dry and the answers to those questions influence the way the structure is built.”
Fascinating. 32 There was obviously more to this than meets the eye. Mind you my only
experience of bricks was with the brightly coloured plastic variety so I had a lot to learn. Bricklayers might not work with Lego but they do work with materials other than traditional red brick. They may use solid bricks, hollow concrete blocks, natural and artificial stone and prefabricated masonry panels.
Bricklayers need to be able to understand and interpret technical drawings and specifications. They need to be able to determine the best brick-pattern for the wall, the correct mortar to use and how much to make, and they need a good knowledge of safety issues, especially when they’re working high up. A job begins with the construction of a pyramid of bricks at each corner of the structure, around which all the rest of the bricks are laid. These corner leads, as they are known, can only be laid by the most experienced bricklayers as they need to be absolutely precise. Less experienced brickies can fill in the wall between the corners.
A job ends with cleaning, which must be carried out properly, or stains and streaks will spoil the appearance of the finished project.
So, if you want a strong, attractive brick-built structure you really are advised to call in the experts.
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