String Course
A String Course is a decorative horizontal band or line that runs along the exterior wall of a building. Think of it like a belt that wraps around a building's outside walls. It's both decorative and functional - it helps break up plain wall surfaces visually and can help direct water away from the building's face. When you see this term in resumes or job descriptions, it usually refers to the ability to install or repair these architectural features. Other common names for this include belt course, band course, or horizontal molding.
Examples in Resumes
Installed String Course on multiple historic building restoration projects
Repaired damaged Belt Course and String Course elements on commercial buildings
Led team in installation of decorative String Course and Band Course features on luxury residential properties
Typical job title: "Masons"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Masons
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan and manage a large string course installation project?
Expected Answer: A senior mason should discuss project planning, material estimation, team coordination, ensuring proper alignment and leveling, and quality control measures throughout the installation process.
Q: What considerations do you take into account when restoring historic string courses?
Expected Answer: Should explain matching historical materials and techniques, working with preservation guidelines, documenting existing conditions, and ensuring repairs maintain the building's historical integrity.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to ensure proper water drainage with string courses?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to properly slope and seal string courses to direct water away from the building, preventing water damage and maintaining the building's integrity.
Q: How do you handle string course installation in challenging weather conditions?
Expected Answer: Should discuss temperature considerations, moisture control, protection methods during installation, and when to delay work due to weather.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools are needed for string course installation?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list and explain the use of basic masonry tools like levels, trowels, measuring equipment, and safety gear needed for installation.
Q: How do you prepare the wall surface before installing a string course?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic surface preparation, including cleaning, checking for level surfaces, and ensuring proper support for the string course.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic masonry techniques
- Tool handling and maintenance
- Basic measurement and leveling
- Safety procedures and equipment use
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent string course installation
- Material estimation and selection
- Problem-solving common installation issues
- Reading architectural drawings
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- Historic restoration techniques
- Team supervision
- Complex architectural detail work
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic masonry tools and techniques
- Lack of understanding about water management in masonry
- No experience with measuring and leveling
- Poor understanding of safety protocols
- No familiarity with different types of mortar and stone materials
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