Sawtooth Course
A Sawtooth Course (also known as a Raking Course or Stepped Course) is a special way of laying bricks that creates a diagonal or stepped pattern along sloped areas, typically used where walls meet rooflines or on staircases. This technique is important in bricklaying because it ensures walls properly follow slopes while maintaining structural integrity. It's similar to regular brick courses (rows) but requires more skill to execute correctly since bricks need to be cut at specific angles. This is a fundamental skill that experienced bricklayers should be familiar with, especially when working on residential or commercial buildings with pitched roofs or stairs.
Examples in Resumes
Installed Sawtooth Course brickwork for 15 residential properties with pitched roofs
Trained junior bricklayers in proper Sawtooth Course and Raking Course techniques
Completed complex Stepped Course installations on historical building renovations
Typical job title: "Bricklayers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Bricklayers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan and execute a complex sawtooth course on a steep roof pitch?
Expected Answer: A senior bricklayer should explain the process of calculating angles, determining proper brick cuts, ensuring water runoff, and maintaining consistent spacing while following safety procedures.
Q: How would you train a junior bricklayer to properly execute a sawtooth course?
Expected Answer: Should discuss teaching methods, common mistakes to avoid, safety considerations, and how to ensure quality work while mentoring others.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key considerations when cutting bricks for a sawtooth course?
Expected Answer: Should explain proper cutting angles, maintaining consistent sizes, selecting appropriate tools, and ensuring clean cuts for professional appearance.
Q: How do you ensure proper water drainage when installing a sawtooth course?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper overlap, mortar joint thickness, and how to prevent water penetration while maintaining structural integrity.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a sawtooth course and when is it used?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's a stepped brick pattern used on slopes and stairs, and understand basic application scenarios.
Q: What basic tools are needed for creating a sawtooth course?
Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like brick saw, level, string line, and measuring tools, and explain their basic use.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic brick cutting and laying
- Understanding of safety requirements
- Ability to follow instructions and patterns
- Basic tool handling
Mid (2-5 years)
- Efficient brick cutting techniques
- Complex pattern execution
- Understanding of water drainage principles
- Independent project completion
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced sawtooth course installation
- Project planning and supervision
- Training and mentoring others
- Quality control and problem-solving
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic brick cutting techniques
- Lack of safety awareness
- No experience with sloped or pitched roof work
- Poor understanding of water drainage principles
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