What does a stonemason do?
As a stonemason, your hands become chisels that shape not only the stone, but the very essence of architectural history. The tasks of a stonemason are varied and include, among other things:
- Restoring old buildings and monuments to their original splendor.
- Producing and inserting stone components such as window frames and archways.
- Dressing stone and building durable walls that will stand the test of time.
- Carving and rejuvenating tombstones and statues to breathe new life into historical artifacts.
- Mastering a range of materials, from slate and sandstone to limestone, marble and granite.
- They use a wide range of hand tools to realize their artistic vision.
Stonemasons also have similarities with bricklayers. Both professions involve working with masonry, but stonemasons typically work with natural stone and emphasize the artistry of their creations. Bricklayers, on the other hand, specialize in bricks and concrete blocks and focus more on the structural aspects of building.
Required skills
To be successful in this ancient but ever-evolving craft, masons must have a number of crucial skills. First and foremost are patience, precision and a keen eye for detail. Working with natural stones requires a deep understanding of their properties so that stonemasons can select, shape and arrange the stones in harmony with their surroundings.
In addition, physical strength and stamina are essential, as working with heavy stones requires a robust physique. Effective communication and teamwork skills also play a role, as stonemasons often collaborate with other building professionals to realize architectural visions.
Qualifications
Becoming a stonemason requires dedication and good training. Achieving NVQ level 2 or level 3 in trowel trades lays the foundation for a successful career in stonemasonry. Holding a blue CSCS card signifies competence in the field, while a gold CSCS card demonstrates advanced skills and expertise. These qualifications not only validate a stonemason’s skills, but also open the doors to a wider range of employment opportunities.
Benefits
Choosing a career as a stonemason comes with a variety of benefits. In addition to the satisfaction of creating lasting structures, stonemasons often enjoy a sense of artistic fulfilment. The demand for skilled craftsmen ensures a steady supply of jobs and provides employment security in the ever-evolving construction industry. The ability to work independently or as part of a team also makes the profession versatile.
Challenges
Like any profession, stonemasonry has its own challenges. The physical demands of the work can be strenuous and require stamina and resilience. Weather conditions can also affect outdoor projects, making the work unpredictable. In addition, the intricacies of working with natural stone require constant learning to keep up with new techniques and materials.
Career path and progression
The path of a stonemason is not static, but a continuous climb towards mastery. From an apprentice, one can develop into an experienced craftsman and eventually a master stonemason. As experience grows, stonemasons can take on leadership roles, oversee projects and guide the next generation of craftsmen.
Statistics
Stonemasons and Bricklayers in the UK* – Prognosis
Average Annual Increase
ARR**
SOURCE: CITB “Labour Market Intelligence Report (2024 – 2028)”
* These prognosis calculations assume constant ARR and growth rate without significant external disruptions.
** ARR – Annual Recruitment Requirement is a metric used to estimate the number of new workers needed annually to meet labour market demands in a specific industry, region, or occupation.
How much could you earn as a stonemason
The financial benefits of being a stonemason can be tempting. Entry-level professionals earn around £22,500 to £28,000 per year, while experienced stonemasons can earn salaries of £38,600 to £46,000 or more. Specialized skills and expertise in restoration projects can further increase earning potential.
*Information sourced from reputable recruitment sites and agencies, reflecting the latest job market insights and trends. Figures can vary based on factors such as specific job requirements, individual qualifications, and regional economic conditions. Additionally, self-employed professionals should account for expenses such as tools, materials, insurance, and transportation when calculating their net earnings.
Typical hours per week
Standard work hours per week
(Employed)
Working hours per week with overtime
(Employed and Self-employed)
The life of a stonemason is one of dedication. A typical work week is around 37 to 40 hours, depending on project deadlines and workload. Flexibility is important, especially when working on historic restoration projects or time-sensitive construction projects.
Conclusion
Being a stonemason is not just a profession, but a journey through time and craftsmanship. The art of stone carving is both a skill and a passion and offers a fulfilling career to those who embark on the stone carving adventure.
