Sailor Course
A Sailor Course, also known as a Rowlock Course or Soldier Course in some regions, is a specific way of laying bricks where they are placed standing up on their narrow ends, rather than lying flat. This technique is commonly used to create decorative borders, window sills, or wall caps in masonry work. It's similar to how books might stand on a bookshelf, with the narrow end visible. This method requires special skills as it's more challenging to align and secure the bricks properly compared to traditional horizontal laying methods.
Examples in Resumes
Installed Sailor Course brick patterns on multiple residential projects
Created decorative Sailor Course and Rowlock Course details for heritage building restoration
Supervised installation of Soldier Course brickwork on commercial building facades
Typical job title: "Bricklayers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Bricklayers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure proper alignment and stability when installing a Sailor Course on a long wall?
Expected Answer: An experienced mason should discuss using guide lines, proper mortar consistency, spacing techniques, and how to maintain even vertical alignment over long distances. They should also mention methods for ensuring proper support and stability.
Q: What considerations do you take into account when planning a Sailor Course for a curved wall?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to calculate brick spacing, cut bricks if needed, and maintain consistent appearance while following the curve. Should also discuss moisture control and structural stability concerns.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the common challenges when installing a Sailor Course and how do you address them?
Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss issues like maintaining vertical alignment, proper spacing, weather considerations, and techniques for ensuring stability and proper bonding.
Q: How do you tie a Sailor Course into the main wall structure?
Expected Answer: Should explain proper anchoring techniques, mortar requirements, and how to ensure the course is properly integrated with the rest of the wall for stability and water resistance.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between a Sailor Course and a standard brick laying pattern?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that Sailor Course involves placing bricks vertically on their narrow end, while standard patterns lay bricks horizontally, and understand basic application differences.
Q: What basic tools are needed for installing a Sailor Course?
Expected Answer: Should list essential masonry tools like levels, trowels, string lines, and spacing guides, and explain their basic use in vertical brick installation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic brick laying techniques
- Understanding of mortar mixing
- Ability to use basic masonry tools
- Knowledge of safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced brick pattern installation
- Efficient Sailor Course installation
- Blueprint reading
- Basic crew supervision
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex architectural detail work
- Project planning and management
- Quality control expertise
- Team leadership and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of proper mortar mixing ratios
- Inability to maintain vertical alignment
- Lack of basic safety awareness
- No experience with measuring and layout tools
Related Terms
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