MASONRY

About Masonry


Masonry is one of the oldest and most enduring skilled trades, playing a vital role in shaping durable, functional, and visually appealing structures. Today’s masonry work ranges from constructing walkways, walls, and retaining structures for residential properties to creating architectural features and structural elements for commercial and public buildings. Masons work with materials such as brick, concrete, stone, and block to build features that are both practical and long-lasting.


Modern masonry requires precision, planning, and technical skill. Masons follow drawings or plans, lay out patterns, prepare materials, and carefully place masonry units using mortar to ensure strength, alignment, and stability. Attention to detail, basic math skills, and an understanding of horizontal and vertical alignment are essential to producing quality work that meets safety and design standards.


Masonry work is hands-on and physically active, often performed outdoors and as part of a team. Individuals who enjoy building, working with materials, and seeing tangible results from their efforts may find masonry to be a rewarding career path. With strong foundational skills, professionalism, and a commitment to quality, masonry offers opportunities across residential, commercial, and infrastructure-related projects that support communities for generations.


Examples of Masonry Skills


Students develop practical masonry skills commonly used in residential, commercial, and hardscape environments, including:


  • Safe and proper use of common masonry tools and job site safety practices
  • Mixing and applying mortar and grout
  • Laying out lines, levels, and grades for accurate construction
  • Building masonry features such as fireplaces, arches, patios, and walkways
  • Installing and repairing block and brick walls
  • Laying brick or stone floors and steps
  • Cutting and selecting stone or masonry units to create patterns and designs



Masonry Work Includes:


Masonry professionals work on both residential and commercial projects, including building exteriors, walls, dividers, patios, foundations, and decorative structural features. Projects may range from home improvements to larger commercial or community-based construction.


The work is physically active and often performed outdoors. Masonry professionals regularly lift materials, work with precision tools, and collaborate with team members to complete projects safely and accurately. Creativity, attention to detail, and clear communication are important parts of producing quality masonry work.


Opportunities in a Masonry Career


Masonry skills are in steady demand as communities continue to build, renovate, and maintain durable structures. Because masonry work supports both functional and aesthetic elements of construction, skilled professionals are needed across residential, commercial, and infrastructure-related projects.


While masonry work can be physically demanding, individuals with strong foundational skills and a commitment to quality often find consistent opportunities across a variety of construction environments. The trade offers unique challenges and the satisfaction of creating long-lasting structures that contribute to the character and strength of communities.


Potential Careers


With training, experience, and continued skill development, individuals with masonry skills may pursue roles such as:


  • Mason or Masonry Technician
  • Masonry Helper or Tender
  • Masonry Inspector
  • Construction or Building Technician
  • Hardscape or Concrete Technician


Earning Potential for Masonry Careers


Earnings in masonry vary based on experience, job responsibilities, location, and employer. Nationally, individuals entering masonry and concrete-related roles typically begin at entry-level hourly wages, with opportunities for steady increases as skills, reliability, and responsibility grow. In South Carolina, starting wages may be slightly lower than the national average, with growth as workers gain experience across residential, commercial, and hardscape projects.


More experienced masonry professionals may earn annual salaries ranging from approximately $45,000 to $55,000 or more, depending on specialization, scope of work, and geographic location. Masonry offers a skilled trade career path where developing technical skill, attention to detail, and professionalism can lead to consistent employment opportunities and long-term earning potential.