What You Need to Know Before Getting a Plastering Job
If you’re considering becoming a plasterer as a career, you’re going to need to learn as much as possible in regards to the type of work you’ll be doing as a plasterer. As well as getting an understanding of the different types of plastering jobs you’ll need to learn and be good at. But first things first, what are some the things that a plasterer needs to do on a regular basis? What are some of the plastering jobs you’ll need to be good at?
Typically plasterers are required to fix and carry out some of the following jobs:
Although the majority of plastering work is done on the inside, away from the cold, occasionally you will find the need to work outdoors – applying plasterboard to external walls for example. Sometimes you’ll need to apply special external wall finishes which do involve a plaster base.
Education and Training:
Like in any career in the United States a good understanding of English and mathematics are required. Further training and education is also necessary to become a good plasterer. It is very rare for a plasterer to be self taught. On the job training can be available through an apprenticeship scheme.
Some Requirements:
Budding plasterers should be aware that the employment type involves heavy, hard physical work, and the type of work involves a high level of fitness and health. Plastering does involve the need to work quickly and the ability to think on your feet is also another definite requirement. You’ll need to be committed to working outdoors; in all varying conditions as this can make up a large part of your workload. It should be noted that you’ll probably need to work sometimes in wet and dirty conditions as well as the need to work on heights, on scaffolding and the like. You’ll need to be a good team player as most plasterers work together in teams.
Prospects:
Plasterers can typically work for large and small construction companies, sometimes working for large international companies to small mom and pop run backyard operations. Contracts are typically the form of work which the industry relies upon. Governments and public sector operations often require the use of construction firms inclusive of plasterers quite often, building hospitals, schools and other business type developments.
There are opportunities for promotion which can often include positions with increased responsibilities; such as a foreperson, or instructor positions at training centers and colleges. Some plasterers can become sub contractors also, creating their own little operation accepting contracts and the like. Contractors rarely are out of work, but like many careers, do depend on world financial situations. The average wage for a plasterer can vary but most salaries are around the 50K mark.
