Rowlock
A rowlock is a specific way of laying bricks where they are placed on their longer, narrower side instead of flat. This technique is commonly used to create decorative borders, window sills, and wall caps in masonry construction. It's similar to how you might place a book standing up on its end rather than laying flat. Masons use this method to add visual interest to buildings and provide practical solutions for areas that need special brick arrangements. Other terms that describe this include "sailor course" when bricks are placed vertically, or "soldier course" when they're stood upright.
Examples in Resumes
Installed Rowlock brick detail on residential project facades
Created decorative Rowlock patterns for custom garden walls
Supervised installation of Rowlock brick courses on commercial building cornices
Typical job title: "Brick Masons"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Brick Masons
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan and execute complex rowlock patterns on a large commercial project?
Expected Answer: An experienced mason should discuss project planning, material calculations, ensuring proper alignment, managing a team, and quality control measures for consistent installation across large areas.
Q: What considerations do you take when installing rowlock courses in different weather conditions?
Expected Answer: Should explain how weather affects mortar setting time, necessary adjustments to technique, and protective measures needed in extreme conditions.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the common challenges when installing rowlock brick courses?
Expected Answer: Should discuss maintaining level installation, proper spacing, ensuring adequate support, and preventing water penetration issues.
Q: How do you ensure proper drainage when installing rowlock sills?
Expected Answer: Should explain slope requirements, flashing installation, weep holes, and proper mortar joints to prevent water damage.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a rowlock and how is it different from standard brick laying?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that rowlock involves placing bricks on their long narrow side instead of flat, and describe basic applications.
Q: What basic tools are needed for rowlock installation?
Expected Answer: Should list essential masonry tools like level, trowel, string line, and spacing tools, and explain their basic use.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic brick laying techniques
- Understanding of mortar mixing
- Basic tool handling
- Simple rowlock patterns
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex pattern installation
- Blueprint reading
- Material estimation
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- Team supervision
- Complex architectural details
- Troubleshooting installation issues
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic masonry safety practices
- Unable to demonstrate proper mortar mixing techniques
- Lack of experience with measuring and layout tools
- No understanding of weather effects on masonry work
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