Then they lay the bricks on top of the mortar and press and tap them into place. Sometimes bricklayers cut bricks to fit around doors and windows. They use a hammer and chisel or a saw to cut the bricks. Occasionally bricklayers build brick arches around windows and doors that support and enhance the wall. Bricklayers are assisted by hod carriers, or helpers, who bring bricks, mix mortar, and set up scaffolding.
Stonemasons do work that is similar to that of bricklayers.
A major difference is that stonemasons work with stone rather than brick. In addition, stonemasons tend to work on churches, hotels, and offices, while bricklayers generally work on houses. When setting stone floors, masons first place a layer of mortar over the surface to be covered. Then they set the stones in the mortar bed. They use crowbars and rubber mallets to align and level the stones.