What do Bricklayers Do

Bricklayers are skilled workers who build walls, houses and other structures using bricks, blocks and mortar. So, what do bricklayers do every day? They measure spaces, lay bricks neatly and make sure each wall stays strong and level.

You often find bricklayers on construction sites, housing projects, and home renovations. They work with care and patience, even in tough weather. Because of this, their job needs focus, strength and pride. Industry data shows there were about 63,000 bricklayers and masons in the UK in 2024, and this number is expected to rise to around 67,000 by 2028. This growth shows how many skilled bricklayers are needed.

Most importantly, bricklayers help create safe homes and lasting buildings. Without their work, walls would fail and buildings would not stand firm. As a result, bricklayers play a vital role in shaping communities and protecting everyday life.

What Does a Bricklayer Do on a Daily Basis?

A bricklayer’s day is busy and hands-on. To start with, they study building plans and measure spaces carefully to make sure everything fits. Accuracy is important because even a small mistake can affect the whole wall. After that, they mix mortar, lay bricks carefully, and check each wall for strength and level. Every brick must be in the right place, which takes focus, skill, and patience.

Bricklayers work both indoors and outdoors. Inside, they build walls in new homes, offices, or renovations. Meanwhile, they often work outside on garden walls, home extensions or large construction projects. The weather can be tough, from hot sun to cold rain, but bricklayers stay determined and proud of their work. Teamwork is another key part of the job. On construction sites, bricklayers work with other tradespeople like plumbers, electricians and carpenters. They help each other, share tools and plan tasks to keep the project moving. This way, the work is safer and faster.

Bricklayers often see the results of their work by the end of the day. Watching a wall rise and knowing it will stand for decades gives real satisfaction. It’s not just bricks and mortar; they are creating homes, businesses and communities. Their work is physically demanding, mentally challenging and very rewarding.

What Qualifications Do Bricklayers Need?

Bricklayers usually need a Level 2 or 3 NVQ or Diploma in bricklaying. Many learn through apprenticeships or college courses. Bricklayers also need to read plans, be strong and know health and safety rules. So, do you want to know what qualifications do you need to be a bricklayer​? 

Key Qualifications & Requirements

1. CSCS Card: Needed to work on sites. Beginners usually have green cards. Experienced bricklayers may have blue or gold cards.
2. Vocational Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 or 3 in bricklaying, Diploma in Bricklaying, or City & Guilds certificate.
3. Apprenticeships: Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeships are the main route to becoming a bricklayer.
4. Academic Requirements: Some apprenticeships ask for GCSEs in English and maths (grades 9 - 4 / A* - C).
5. Health & Safety: Also, they must pass the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test to get a CSCS card.

Required Skills & Attributes

1. Physical Strength: Can lift heavy materials, work outside, and stand for long hours.
2. Technical Skills: Can read building plans, measure well, and mix mortar.
3. Other Skills: Careful with details, accurate, and can work in a team.
4. In addition, being reliable and focused is very important.

Common Entry Routes

1. Apprenticeship: Paid on-the-job training and college lessons.
2. College Course: Full-time training to learn the basics before working on-site.
3. Site Helper: Finally, start as a helper (or “hod carrier”) to learn skills before training.

What Skills Do Bricklayers Need?

Bricklayers need a mix of physical strength, accuracy, and technical knowledge. Good hand-eye coordination, strength, and attention to detail are essential for bricklayers. Careful planning and safe working habits guide their daily tasks, while using numbers for measurements ensures accuracy. They also work well in teams, coordinating with others to keep projects running smoothly. Tools such as trowels, levels, and power tools help them build walls, arches, and decorative features efficiently.

Core Technical Skills

First of all, bricklayers must be able to set out work areas correctly. This includes measuring and marking spaces for walls using string lines, spirit levels, or laser levels. Next, they mix mortar properly, either by hand or with a mixer, and then lay bricks or blocks carefully according to the plans. After that, they trim and shape bricks with hammers, chisels, or power tools. Bricklayers also build arches, cavity walls, piers, and decorative features. In addition, they must read and follow blueprints, drawings, and instructions accurately.

Essential Personal Skills

Bricklayers need good physical fitness to lift heavy materials, bend and stand for long hours. They must have attention to detail to ensure walls are straight, level and strong. Hand-eye coordination is important for handling tools accurately. Numeracy skills help with measuring and calculating materials and angles. Problem-solving is needed to fix unexpected issues on site, and good time management ensures they can organise work and meet deadlines efficiently.

Safety & Teamwork

Safety is very important on construction sites. Bricklayers must follow health and safety rules and wear proper protective equipment. Teamwork is also essential, as they work closely with other tradespeople like plumbers, electricians, and carpenters. Clear communication helps the team stay organised, safe and productive.

Digital & Other Skills

Bricklayers may need basic computer or handheld device skills for some tasks, such as recording measurements or checking plans. They also need to be flexible and able to adapt to changes on site, like unexpected weather or design adjustments.

Detailed 2026 Bricklayer Rates

Bricklayers earn money in different ways, depending on the type of work and bricks they lay. Knowing these rates helps both new and experienced bricklayers plan their jobs and feel confident about pay. Let's break down how much do bricklayers get paid.

Hourly, Daily, and Per Brick Rates

Most bricklayers charge by the hour or day, earning around £32 to £37 per hour or £240 to £320 per day. Pay can be higher in London, while it is usually a bit lower outside the city. Many bricklayers also charge per 1,000 bricks laid, and the type of brick makes a big difference.

1. Common bricks: £650 to £1,500 per 1,000
2. Engineering bricks: £650 to £1,790 per 1,000
3. Facing bricks: £2,260 to £5,000 per 1,000

Extra charges can apply for weekends, emergency call-outs, remote locations or small jobs, so workers can earn more in these situations. A bricklayer lays around 500 bricks per day on average, which means pay can add up quickly for skilled workers.

Why It Matters

These rates show that bricklaying can be a well-paid and satisfying job, especially when you see a wall or building completed. Fast and careful bricklayers often earn more, meaning their hard work is rewarded and gives a real sense of achievement.

What Tools Do Bricklayers Use?

Bricklayers use a variety of tools to build walls and other structures. These tools help them measure, shape, move, and finish bricks safely and accurately. They use both hand tools and power tools depending on the job.

Hand Tools & Shaping

1. Brick Trowel: The main tool for scooping, spreading and shaping mortar.
2. Pointing or Gauging Trowel: Small trowels for detailed work and finishing joints.
3. Brick Hammer: One side splits bricks, the flat side shapes them.
4. Club Hammer: Used with chisels for heavy cutting or small demolitions.
5. Bolster/Chisel: Makes clean, straight cuts on bricks or blocks.
6. Brick Jointer/Slicker: Smooths and shapes mortar between bricks.
7. Brick Carrier/Tongs: Helps carry several bricks at once safely.

Measuring & Alignment

1. Spirit Level (or Laser Level): Ensures walls are straight and vertical.
2. Tape Measure: For accurate measurements of bricks and spaces.
3. Mason’s Line & Line Pins: Guide straight rows of bricks.
4. Plumb Bob: Checks vertical alignment of walls.

Material Handling & Prep

1. Mortar Board or Pan: Holds mortar while working.
2. Wheelbarrow: Moves bricks, sand, cement, or mortar around the site.
3. Shovel: For digging and mixing materials.
4. Mortar Mixer (Power Mixer): Quickly blends large amounts of mortar.

Finishing & Safety

1. Soft Brush: Cleans excess mortar and smooths joints.
2. Masonry Saw: Makes precise cuts for bricks on site.
3. Gloves & Safety Glasses: Protect hands and eyes while working.

Where Do Bricklayers Work?

Bricklayers work in different places. Each day can be different.

1. Construction Sites: First, bricklayers build new homes, walls, or big projects. The work is busy, but seeing a wall rise is very satisfying.
2. Residential Projects: Next, they work on home extensions, garden walls, or renovations. It feels special because families will enjoy their work for a long time.
3. Commercial Buildings: Also, bricklayers build offices, schools, shops and other commercial buildings. These projects are bigger and need careful planning and teamwork.
4. Outdoor Environments: Finally, they often work outside. The weather can be hot, cold, or rainy. Bricklayers stay focused and proud of their work. Working outside can be hard, but it makes the job interesting.

Overall, wherever they work, bricklayers help build safe and strong buildings. Their work shapes homes, communities and cities.

Bricklayer Pay Overview in the UK 2026

Many people want to know how much do bricklayers earn​. Bricklayers can earn good money, but pay varies depending on experience, location and type of work. Knowing what to expect helps new bricklayers plan their careers.

Hourly and Daily Rates

1. Experienced bricklayers earn around £32.50 to £37.50 per hour or £240 to £320 per day.
2. Meanwhile, pay is higher in London, while outside the city, rates are slightly lower.
3. For example, overtime or urgent work can increase daily earnings, which makes the job more rewarding.

Per Brick Rates

1. Typical rates are 50p to £1 per brick.
2. However, rates depend on project type, location, and speed.
3. In fact, fast and accurate workers often earn more, giving a sense of pride in their work.

Annual Salaries

1. Employed bricklayers usually earn £25,000 to £45,000 per year.
2. On the other hand, self-employed bricklayers in busy areas can make £56,000 or more.
3. Apprentices start lower, but over time, learning on the job leads to better wages and long-term growth.

Overall, being a bricklayer can be well-paid and satisfying. Watching a wall rise and knowing your work will last for decades makes every pound earned feel well deserved.

How Do Bricklayers Stay Safe on Site?

Safety is very important for bricklayers because construction sites can be dangerous. To begin with, they always wear protective gear. Hard hats, gloves, safety boots, and glasses protect them from falling bricks, sharp tools, and dust. Wearing the right gear helps them feel confident and safe while working.

Meanwhile, bricklayers handle their tools carefully. Hammers, chisels, trowels, and power tools need focus and attention. For instance, they check that all tools are in good condition before starting work. Using tools safely prevents accidents and keeps the day running smoothly.

Besides this, bricklayers follow all site rules. They listen to supervisors, watch for hazards, and stay aware of other workers. As well, teamwork and clear communication help everyone stay safe. Bricklayers know that following rules protects not just themselves but also their colleagues. Ultimately, safety is part of every bricklayer’s day. Being careful, wearing the right equipment and working together ensures they finish each project safely and confidently.

Final Thoughts: What Do Bricklayers Do? 

In conclusion, bricklayers do an important job that keeps buildings strong and safe. First, they use skill, focus, and strength to lay bricks carefully every day. Also, they work well with other tradespeople, which makes projects faster and safer. Moreover, bricklayers need the right tools, training and protective gear to stay safe while working. Their work can be hard, but it is also rewarding because they see walls and homes being built from start to finish. Finally, bricklayers play a key role in shaping communities, and their effort and care make a real difference in people’s lives.

FAQs: What Do Bricklayers Do?

1. What Equipment Do Bricklayers Use?

1. Bricklayers use trowels, hammers, chisels, levels, tape measures, masons’ lines, wheelbarrows, mortar boards, brushes, and sometimes power tools like mixers and saws.

2. Which Tool Is Used for Making Bricks?

1. Bricklayers do not make bricks themselves; bricks are made in factories. On-site, they use trowels to spread and shape mortar for laying bricks.

3. What Do Bricklayers Need?

1. They need strength, hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, numeracy, ability to read plans, safety knowledge, and teamwork skills.

4. What Tools Are Used in Block Work?

1. Trowels, levels, hammers, chisels, tape measures, mason’s lines, mortar boards, wheelbarrows, and jointers are used for block work.

5. Can Bricklayers Make £100k a Year?

1. Yes, self-employed or highly skilled bricklayers in busy areas can earn around £100,000 per year, depending on experience, demand and projects.

6. How Much Do Bricklayers Charge to Lay 1,000 Bricks?

1. It depends on the type of brick. Rates usually range from £650 to £5,000 per 1,000 bricks, with facing bricks costing the most.