What Does a Restoration Mason Do?

A Restoration Mason does similar work to a cement mason or a bricklayer. However, their work is done on structures years after the original work was performed. Specialized Restoration Masons could repair and restore heritage buildings and monuments. Some structures that a Restoration Mason works with include chimneys, smokestacks, foundations, furnaces, kilns and forges.

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • preparing, mixing mortar
  • using and maintaining power and hand tools
  • cutting out and filling masonry joints in ashlar, rubble and brickwork
  • cutting out and indenting new stone pieces
  • repairing, replacing or resetting bricks, stone and terra cotta blocks
  • drilling, grouting and pinning fractured stones, resetting copings
  • performing washing, including mechanical and chemical cleaning of masonry surfaces
  • observing safety in accordance with government and company standards

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

Restoration Mason is a voluntary certified trade in the construction sector, which means that it does not require a valid Certificate of Apprenticeship to work in the trade. However, apprenticeship training is recommended.

Grade 12 may be required by employers and unions but grade 10 is required as the legal minimum to be apprenticed in this trade. Completion of a 6000 hour apprenticeship will include a combination of on-the-job and in-school training. The in-school component will include 2 twelve week blocks of school. Restoration Masons' skills are transferable to other masonry trades.

What’s Your Future as a Restoration Mason?

Restoration Masons are employed in the construction sector. They could work on a project-by-Project basis or be employed by a construction or restoration company. Restoration Masons may work indoors and outdoors and may be required to bend or stoop, lift and carry heavy objects. They may be exposed to a variety of weather conditions, and generally work a 35-40 hour week, often in shifts and must be prepared to travel to where work is available. Employers who hire Restoration Masons include:

  • Building construction companies
  • Residential building developers
  • Masonry Contractors
  • Exterior construction firms

Wage Rate

  • An Apprentice earns less than a Journeyperson, but as your skills and expertise improve, your wage increases
  • Wages for fully qualified Restoration Mason vary in the range of $17-$30/ hour, depending on the size of the shop they work for and if they are self-employed
  • Potential exists for overtime during busy periods

Ask Yourself: Is Working as a Restoration Mason For You?

Self-Rating

Do you mind being exposed to water, noises, and vibrations?

Yes      No

Can you stand on your feet for long periods of time, bend, stoop, lift heavy objects?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy problem-solving?

Yes      No

Do you have some artistic ability and pay attention to detail, often to exacting standards?

Yes      No

Are you willing to travel to work, or to work overtime?

Yes      No

Do you like working outdoors in various weather conditions?

Yes      No

Can you work well independently or as a member of a team to get the job done?

Yes      No

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as a Restoration Mason may be for You!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

  • Cement (Concrete) Finisher
  • Bricklayer
  • Stone Cutter
  • Tile, Terrazzo and Marble Setter
  • Floor Covering Installer
  • Drywall Finisher and Plasterer

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